Essential Backcountry Gear for any Level and Checklist

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Backcountry gear is essential for hiking and spending time in the far reaches of the wilderness.

Packing for the backcountry is different than packing for regular camping because you need everything to fit in your backpack and be lightweight.

Ounces equal pounds.

All those things you put in your backpack add up to more pounds. Keep that in mind when you are selecting your gear, doing your TA-50 layout, and then putting it all in the pack.

Main Gear List

The following list of backcountry gear is made up of the things that I pack myself. And the brands that I recommend.

While browsing this list, keep in mind that not everything is essential for your trip. You pick and choose what you want from the list and what works best for your backpacking trip.

This backcountry gear checklist was created as a generalization as well as a tool to help jog your memory if you forget something.

Specialty Items for Hunting

When you are hunting you may need a few additional items or things that are specifically designed for the type of hunting you are doing. The following additional items would be added to your list based on what you are going out into the backcountry for.

Gear Brands for Outdoor Adventures

There are multiple brands that make great gear for backcountry hiking, backpacking, and hunting.

If you are a beginner, don’t panic about the upfront investment. It might take you a few years to accumulate all the backcountry gear you need. You don’t need to rush out and purchase everything on the list.

It is entirely possible to go out hiking and only take the basics. You can also use older gear, backcountry gear that you find at a second-hand store, or that you rig on your own.

Over the years, I have added to my backpacking collection. I’ve collected gear for specific hunts or hikes. And I have tested many brands or variations of the items on this backcountry gear list.

These brands are the ones that I like the most (at this point and time). There may be others that make the list in the future. That is part of the fun of getting out there and testing them!

Pick and choose between the brands and the gear that you like the best or that you think will work for you.

Backcountry gear and backpacking supplies are like anything else. You can customize your selections. Mix and match. Find the things that work best for you and your style of backpacking, hiking and camping.

If something doesn’t seem to mesh well with your style, budget or activities don’t be afraid to try something else before you give up. Some of this takes some trial and error.

You won’t know if an item works well for you until you put it to use a few times. Go outside and find an adventure!