Posterity's Cloud - Backpacking List


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Food
[ ] Bread, Pita or Rice Cakes -travels well, and makes for a good lunch with any condiment.  I've recently started taking "peanut butter" rice cakes.  They are very light and hold up good.
[ ] Candy Bar / Power Bar -I used to buy a big one and break it up into my trail mix.  Now, I get "Power Bars" which can double as a quick meal.  WEIGHT: 2.3 oz. COST: $1.60 FROM: Campmor
[ ] Cereal -I recently started bringing cereal and powdered milk instead of oatmeal. It weighs less, uses no fuel, is quicker and is easier to clean up.
[ ] Cheese -I love having this on the trail.  Make sure you get a hard type though.  I've been told to freeze it before putting it in your pack to help preserve it but, I have never tried it.  I've never had a problem with it getting any growth on it but, I tend to go in the spring, fall and winter so, that might account for my success with it.
[ ] Coffee -A ziploc bag with coffee.
[ ] Coffee Filters & Holder -I use a funnel like paper filter you poor water through made by "Coghlans". Lightweight and small. This is up to the individual.  ACTUAL WEIGHT: 0.5 oz.  COST: $  FROM: Campmor
[ ] Dinner -Dried foods or be creative. I'm sold on dried foods! Mountainhouse is what I get.  Along with Ramen noodles. They are so easy to prepare and no dirty dishes!  Check out the hint for how I do my dinners. [HINT]
[ ] Milk, Powdered -A ziploc of powdered milk for cereal. It's also good plain. You'll be amazed at how good it tastes on the trail.
[ ] Peanut Butter Tube -This waas my lunch mainstay. Great on pita bread, rice cakes or, by itself. Don't get crunchy though, it plugs up the tube!  I stopped bringing this to "lighten my load" but, it sure is good.
[ ] Salt / Pepper -Don't use the stuff myself but, if you do, don't forget it. Handout packets at fast food places work.
[ ] Trail Mix -This is up to the individual. I use peanuts, M&M's, raisins and Gordello's type Rye Cracker Mix.  You (at least me) need to have something handy to munch on while walking down the trail.  It keeps the fires burning.  You burn alot of calories while walking.  If you (at least I) don't munch while walking.  You end up walking into camp tired and worn out.
[ ] Vitamins -Might as well keep your nutrients up! I usually bring one for each day with breakfast.
optional / alternate Food
[ ] Apples -I always figure one every third day depending on space available. They disappear once eaten and, boy are they good!
[ ] Beef Jerky -great to chew while walking.
[ ] Jelly Tube -Fill a tube with jelly for lunch on pita bread or rice cake.
[ ] Noodles Chow Mein -Adds a nice crunch to meals. Very light-weight. Goes good with a lot of things.
[ ] Oatmeal Instant -Used to be my mainstay for breakfast. I've since switched to cereal.
[ ] Rice, Instant -filling and lightweight.
[ ] Soup Instant -Cup Of Soups work well for back up supply or, to throw in a dinner. Very little weight and good.  Just watch the packaging.  If you take these, put them in a ziploc.

Equipment
[ ] Backpack -Make sure you have a decent one and it fits properly. This will be as important or more important than your car in the city. I used a "Camptrails Denali" for several years. This is external frame pack and I was very pleased with it. I have recently switched to a "Jansport Alaska" internal frame only because I wanted more internal pack space. After using it several times now, I found I like the internal frame because it is one with my body and more maneuverable.  The one I'm using now is very big for the average hiker but, I carry lot's of video equipment and tend to go on hikes for up to 14 days without restock, so, I need overly normal space in my pack. ACTUAL WEIGHT: 7 lbs. 8 oz. MY MODIFIED WEIGHT: 5 lbs. 2 oz. COST:$190 FROM: Campmor.  As part of my "lightening up" I have recently switched to a GVy4 pack from GVPgear.  It is a "lightweight" pack weighing in at 11 oz. out of the box with unique features.  I have used it for a two week trip and plan on usingit for all three season trips.  ACTUAL WEIGHT: 11.0 oz.  COST: $70  FROM:GVPGEAR
[ ] Backpack Raincoat -I've used a poncho for years. It is very multi-purpose. Fitted ones have advantages such as easy attachment and tight tie downs though.  I switched to a fitted one for my "Alaska" backpack.  I have a "REI Internal Frame XL" cover.  ACTUAL WEIGHT: 7.6 oz. COST: $20 FROM: REI
I recently purchasedt a new Sylon Impregnated Nylon (Silnylon) one for it's weight savings.  It's not as "bomproof" as the REI on but, is less than half the weight. ACTUAL WEIGHT: 3 oz. COST: $30 FROM: Adventurelite.com
[ ] Backpack Straps/Tie-downs -Used to attach stuff to your pack and tie things down. I use cinch type straps, Velcro loops and alluminum climbing type snap clips.  I've since switched to 1 set of cinch straps and Velcro loops to cut down on weight.
[ ] Bags, Stuff Sacks, Compression-Bags to put clothes and/or sleeping bag in. They have straps on them to compress them into a nice small size for putting in or on your pack. Very handy if you are short on space.  I was using the type made by "Granite Gear".  I've just stopped using these due to the weight. They are quite heavy. The other drawback is, for things such as a sleeping bag, it is not good to keep them compressed.  They loose there loft thus, insulating value.  I have gone to all Sylnylon bags for items or, none at all.  Sylnylon bags WEIGHT: 0.5 oz.avg. COST: $9 FROM: Adventurelite.com
[ ] Candle & Windblock -I've used a small portable collapsible one with a no drip candle for several years. It's made by "Uco" and is extremely well designed in terms of packability and use. A no drip candle and foil works too but, not near as well in inclement weather. ACTUAL WEIGHT: 8.8 oz. COST: $ FROM: Campmor.  I've recently switched to a "CMG Bonfire" 3 LED lantern.  I have used it on two trips now and I am very pleased with it.  It doesn't give off the "natural glow" of a candle but, it's safer and weighs less than half as much. WEIGHT (w\o Batteries): ? oz.  COST: $22  FROM: Campmor [REVIEW]. I've stopped bringing this too as part of going "light" and now just bring Photon lights but, I miss it.  It's still tempting to throw it in the pack.
[ ] Clock/Watch -It's nice if it has an alarm and timer for keeping track of how far you walk.  I splurged big time here.  I bought a "Suunto Vector" watch which has, in additon to usual clock/timer functions, an altimeter, barometer and temperature.  I've found it worth the money though.  The altimeter gives you a good idea of location when in changing terrain and the barometer lets you know whats happening weather wise.  On a recent trip, I saw the change in the barometer and decided to walk into a comfortable campground early in the day instead of walking on to stay in the backcountry and walk on a slippery, wet trail.  WEIGHT:@2 oz. COST: $200 FROM: REI
[ ] Compass -Make sure it's a good one. If you ever need it, you'll be happy.  Luckily, I've only needed one once (and left that one stuck on a log, but that's another story!) but, you better have one.  I have one that's built into my watch and carry a nice liquid-filled one in my pack for backup or bushwacking. ACTUAL WEIGHT: 0.8 oz.
[ ] Cup -A good size one so it's good for mixing oatmeal, soup, drinks, etc. I used a metal one with a ceramic coating ("Coleman Classic") for several years and was very pleased.  I've recently switched to a titanium one for the weight though.  I have used it for around 28 days out now and it is surprisingly durable and easy to clean.  I'm using a "MSR Titan". ACTUAL WEIGHT:1.8 oz. COST:$30 FROM: REI
[ ] Dish Cloth -Used to dry off pans, etc. Something small and fast drying. Decent napkins will work as well.  I use 1/2 of a small "Packtowel" and keep it in my mess kit.  It also doubles as my pot holder and cup insulator. ACTUAL WEIGHT: 0.7 oz. COST: FROM: Campmor
[ ] Flashlight -I used to bring a small AA cell maglight.  I just purchased a "Photon II" Turquois LED light to replace it.  I have used it for around 12 days out now and I very happy with it. I also put a piece of velcro on it so I can attach it to my hat brim.  WEIGHT: 1/4 oz. COST: $20  FROM: Photon [REVIEW]
[ ] Flashlight, Head -The kind that mounts on your head to keep your hands free.  I would take this over a hand held anyday but, usually bring both for backup.  I was using one made by "Petzl" that has served me well.  I just purchased a "Photon II" white LED light to replace this.  I put a piece of velcro on it and my hat brim.  It seems to work very well.  WEIGHT: 1/4 oz. COST: $20  FROM: Photon [REVIEW]
[ ] Garbage Bags -For carrying out your garbage and for putting things in. Never can have too many.
[ ] Knife,Swiss Army -Goes without saying. Useful for repairs, etc.  A "leatherman" multitool suits the same pupose. I would only bring one or the other though.  I've recently purchased a "Esquire Micro-light" swiss army knife.  This only has a knife blade, a file/screwdriver, scissors and a built in LED light.  It weights about 1/3 the weight of my usual 5-blade swiss army.  ACTUAL WEIGHT: 0.9 oz. COST: $ FROM: Photon  [REVIEW]
[ ] Map -Make sure it's a good one. Topographic if at all possible. It's also better if it's plastic coated. Everyone in the group should have a map with main points and trails on it in case you become separated.  Also, so you don't keep hearing "where are we?" when you don't know exactly :-)
[ ] Mosquito Net -If it's the season for mosquitos, blackflies or other bothersome creatures, you'll be a happy hiker!  The only time I don't bring this is in the winter or, my late fall (sept. / oct) trips to Isle Royale.  If going in the spring, even if there is still ice, I would bring it.  A hatch only takes one warm day and you WILL be sorry.  Very light and compact so, unless you're sure, take it. ACTUAL WEIGHT: 0.5 oz.
[ ] Pan etc. -A mess kit with necessary pans. I used a stainless steel "Coleman" set for years but, have recently switched to a lightweight titanium set.  I just bring a big pan (1 liter) and a lid.  What you bring depends on what you'll be cooking. If using dried foods you really only need a water pan. Pan and Lid ACTUAL WEIGHT: 5.6 oz. COST FOR PAN,LID,SMALL BOWL,POTLIFTER: $90 FROM: REI
[ ] Pocket, Attachable -A pocket, fanny pack or something to carry trail mix, etc. Something so items can be handy when walking.  I'm using a "Lowe Alpine Bellows" pocket that has a snap strap and velcro that can mount to most any strap on my pack.  I usually put trail mix, paper/pen and a map in it.  WEIGHT: 1.9 oz. COST: $12 FROM: REI
[ ] Platypus, H2O Bag -Collapsible water bags made by "Cascade Designs". They take up very little room and, can be handy. I bring 2.4 and 1.0 liter ones.  I usually havel two 2.4 liter for water, one spare 1.0 liter and one 2.4 liter with spirits to start off the trip!  As I said, they take up very little room and, you can never have too many containers (as long as you don't have to carry them all full!). ACTUAL WEIGHT: @1oz.each COST: $6 FROM: REI
[ ] Rope -For clothes line, repairs, emergency, food hanging (if in bear country), etc.  I am using Spectra 500# parachute cord.  It is very thin, light and is rated for 500# test.  I also like it because it is white and easy to see.  It won't cut it for climbing though, because it is thin, it is not easy to grab on to.  WEIGHT FOR 30'= 0.5 oz. COST:$.12 per foot  FROM:Hang-Em High Fabrics
[ ] Sleeping Bag -Of course! Make sure it's a warm but light weight one and, quick drying! (just in case). I'm using a "Blizzard" by Northface weighing at 3lbs. 7oz. and good till 5 degrees.  This depends on where and when you'll be hiking though.  I've recently started doing winter trips, thus the temperature rating.  Ain't nothing worse than being cold though so, make sure you got what you need. If I was was to do this over, I'd investigate getting one rated for a higher temperature and getting a fleece liner for cold weather.  WEIGHT: 3lb. 7oz. COST: $129 FROM: CAMPMOR
[ ] Sleeping Pad -Something to get you off of the ground. I was using a 3/4 length "Z-Rest" by Ridge rest but, have recently cut this down even further (cut off 2 panels) and I am not using a 6-panel Z-Rest and using my "empty" backpack for my feet.  I find this suits "me" fine. There are some very nice/comfortable self inflating ones out there but, tend to weigh much more.  I think it depends on your back and sleeping.  Luckily, I've never had back problems and tend to sleep great after walking or, just being outside.  ORIGINAL 3/4 WEIGHT: 11 oz. 8-PANEL WEIGHT: 8.5 oz.    COST: $25    FROM: Campmor
[ ] Spoon etc. -Spoon, fork and knife for eating. Lately, I've been just bringing a spoon and using my swiss army for a knife.  The one I'm using is a "MSR Titanium" and cut off the excess handle so it would fit nicely inside of my pan.  This depends on what you are eating.  If you need a fork, you might look into a combo one (spork).  ACTUAL WEIGHT: 0.6 oz.  COST(For Fork,Spoon,Knife):  From:
[ ] Stakes, Tent -Even if your tent is free standing, bring them. If it gets windy or is very rainy they will come in handy.  Also, if your tent has guidlines and, you never used them before, bring the stakes for them.  If you don't, you'll probably need them and you'll be scrounching for sticks in a monsoon.  I'm using angled titanium ones and, based on the ones I've used before, these angled ones seems the strongest in terms of bending.
[ ] Stove -A very important item. There are many places where you cannot have fires and, lots of times, little time. Make sure you have a decent one. I was using a "Coleman Max Expert" stove which uses lightweight butane canisters and boils water in a couple of minutes. ACTUAL WEIGHT: 14.6 oz. COST: $ FROM: ? [REVIEW]. I have recently switched to a homemade "pop can" denatured alchohol stove.  It is much lighter and the fuel is much cheaper.  I have used it for 28 days on the trail and, so far, it is my stove of choice.  WEIGHT(with windscreen):  COST:$10   FROM:Adventurelite.com [REVIEW]
[ ] Stove Fuel -Whatever stove you are bringing, bring plenty of fuel. Especially if you are boiling water.
[ ] Tent -This is up to the individual and, depends on where you're going and, for how long. Just make sure it has a good rainfly and is "breathable". Most newer tents meet these guidelines. Also, it's nice to have a vestibule for cooking in in bad weather. I have used a small one made by Eureka called a "Timberline" that weighed in at around 4 lbs.  Recently I've traded weight for space and gotten a bigger one. I've got the "Nebula" made by Northface.  This has two vestibules with two doors and is "3/4 Season" meaning, winter too.  This is a little more than you need for your average backpacking but,  I'm doing more winter packing and, the main reason, I carry gads of video equipment I need to keep well protected from moisture and temperature change. WEIGHT: 8 lbs. COST: $250 FROM: Campmor [REVIEW]. I have recently purchased a hammock call the "Hennessy Ultra-Lite".  It is a 1-person hammock with some unique features.  I have only used it 4 nights in the early spring and had some problems but, I think I've resolved them.  I will be doing further testing soon.  WEIGHT: 24 oz. ACTUAL WEIGHT: ? oz.  COST: $? FROM: Hennesy Hammock. [REVIEW]. On my last 20 day trip I used an 8'x10' tarp and I was sold on tarping it.  I am presently designing a tarp/tent and think this will be my 3 seaaason solution.
[ ] Tent Bottom -For underneath the tent (also called "Footprint"). Piece of plastic works well but, takes awhile to dry. I started using a store bought nylon fitted one that clips right onto my tent corners.  ACTUAL WEIGHT: 9.8 oz. COST: $35 FROM: Campmor.  I have since switched to a piece of "Tyvec" house covering.  It is lighter and dries much faster.
[ ] Water Bottle/System -For water while walking down the train. They make some nice "hands free" ones.  I recently went to a "platypus" with a tube and a "hands free" nozzle and, it is the Cadillac of drinking while walking.  The tube for drinking is a "Platypus Duckbill" that plugs into any Platypus.  WEIGHT: 1oz. COST: $10 FROM: REI
[ ] Water Purification -Whatever the method. I've been using a purifier. After investigation I got a "PUR Scout" model due to it's ease of pumping and construction. Don't rely on boiling your water, it uses a lot of fuel and tastes terrible. I've never used tablets either but, you can, depending on where you're going. ACTUAL WEIGHT: 23.5 oz. COST: $90 FROM: REI [REVIEW].  I have recently puchased a Safewater Anywhere "gravity" filter.  I have used in for 16 days on the trail and tested it until I think I have found the perfect configuration.  TOTAL SYSTEM WEIGHT: 11.0 oz.  COST: $60  FROM: Safewater Anywhere & Campmor [REVIEW, DESCRIPTION and PICTURES]
[ ] Whistle/Signal Mirror -For emergency signaling. I have these built in to my waterproof match case.
Optional / Alternate Equipment
[ ] Binoculars -Some weight but, nice to observe wildlife at a distance, see where you're going, where you've been or, where you could go.  These go in and out of my pack more often than any other item when I'm packing for a trip.  I'm using "Minolta Activa Zoom 8-22x27".  ACTUAL WEIGHT: 12.1 oz. COST: $200 FROM: REI
[ ] Canteen -Something durable. Make sure it is a one piece (I had a disaster with a two piece).  Lately though, I stopped bringing a canteen and just bring "Platypus" collapsible water bags.
[ ] Tool, Leatherman -This can come in handy for repairs (pliers). If going in a group, there should be at least one.  If you take this, skip a "Swiss Army" knife.


Clothing
[ ] Bandana -To wipe the sweat off your face when walking. I usually tie it right to my backpack when walking.  ACTUAL WEIGHT: 1.5 oz.
[ ] Belt -Even if you don't normally wear one, you'll need it by the end of the trip to hold up your pants due to weight loss!  Also, a backpack's "hip-belt" tends to push your pants down.  ACTUAL WEIGHT: 2.7 oz.
[ ] Comfy Shoes -Something to wear after you are done hiking or while your boots dry out (God forbid!). Definitely nice to put something on besides your boots at the end on the day and in the morning. A couple of times I have brought slippers. I recently got some "modular shell mukluks" made by Outdoor Research and some polartec 200 booties called "Acorn Yahoo's" to wear inside.  The mukluks go up to about knee length and are great in wet or snowy conditions. This combination suits me fine but, cost more than a pair of (disposable) slippers with bottoms. ACTUAL COMBINED WEIGHT:14.4 oz. COST: $47 FROM: Campmor
[ ] Comfy Sox -At least two sets of socks to wear while your hiking socks are "airing out". Two, so you can wash one set and, in case you need a set for hiking.
[ ] Comfy Tee Shirt -To wear at the end of the day and as backup for your hiking one.  I bring the same kind I use when hiking (see Hiking Tee Shirt).
[ ] Gaiters -To wear while walking in wet conditions. They will keep the moisture from soaking your boots and, more importantly, your socks. Socks tend to get wet and "wick" the moisture into your boots nullifying any waterproofing on your boots.  If you wear rainpants you won't need them but, I've never liked walking in rainpants.  If you have them, make sure you use them.  Even if plants are just damp, they will soak your ankles/socks.  ACTUAL WEIGHT: 6.5 oz.
[ ] Gloves -Depending on the time of year. I always bring a very light set of "thermal type" gloves no matter the season for those chilly nights.
[ ] Hat -To keep the sun or rain off your face and, to hide your dirty hair. I bring both a lightweight brimmed safari type and a heavier brimmed one made by Outdoor Research.
[ ] Hat, Warm -I bring a full face gortex Balaclava(ninja) one. It will keep you warm no matter what and can be shaped to just cover the top of your head.  ACTUAL WEIGHT: 1.3 oz.  COST: ?  FROM: ?
[ ] Hiking Boots -Of course. Depending on where you go, determines the style. Just make sure they are comfortable, broken in and water proofed. Blisters will most likely occur regardless but, on a much smaller scale.  I'm using "Rocky Outback boots" which have been great.  These have high ankle length but, I need that due to a previous ankle injury.
[ ] Hiking Pants/Shorts, Convertible-Pants/Shorts just for hiking. I bring the kind you can zip off the bottom and convert to shorts without taking off your boots.  The ones I'm using dry quick and seem to repel water good.  Thye are "Ex Officio Travel". ACTUAL WEIGHT: 12.8 oz. COST: $74 FROM: REI  [REVIEW]
[ ] Hiking Socks, Inner -A very thin pair of socks next to your feet to wick the moisture to the outer socks and prevent blisters.  Two sets of these aren't a bad idea in case one is damp from the day before or, so you can wash a set the night before.
[ ] Hiking Socks, Outer -Thicker wool type socks to absorb moisture and protect your feet from your boot. A fast drying material is best.  I'm using "Wigwam Ultimax". WEIGHT: 3 oz. COST: $7 FROM: Campmor
[ ] Hiking Sweatshirt -A light weight sweat shirt for those days when hiking is a little cooler.
[ ] Hiking Tee Shirt -Make sure it's a fairly absorbent one. You'll be amazed at how much moisture you'll produce.  I'm using a "Duofold Hydrid Coolmax" quick drying / wicking one and love it.  ACTUAL WEIGHT: 6.0 oz. COST: $10 FROM: Campmor
[ ] Pants, Fleece -For around camp at night. I put these on over my long underwear as a 2nd layer. I have some "Polartec 200 fleece" ones that have kept me very warm. ACTUAL WEIGHT: 11 oz. COST: $45 FROM: REI
[ ] Pants, Outer Shell (Windbreak)-Acts as a windbreak/moisture deterrent over either long underwear or fleece pants. I'm using "REI Windpack Pants" that are lightweight and small when packed.  ACTUAL WEIGHT: 6.2 oz. COST: $20 FROM: REI
[ ] Raincoat -I used to carry a regular off the shelf rainsuit.  Now I  don't bring pants (see Gaiters) and bring a good breathable rain jacket.  I use a "Sierra Designs Peak Bagger" jacket.  ACTUAL WEIGHT: 15.5 oz. COST: $180 FROM: REI
[ ] Shirt, Outer Shell (Windbreak/Anorak)-Acts as a windbreak/moisture deterrent over either long underwear or fleece shirt. I'm using a "REI Windpack Anorak"  that is lightweight,  small when packed and comes with a hood.  ACTUAL WEIGHT: 10 0z. COST: $30 FROM: REI
[ ] Shirt, Fleece -For around camp at night. I put this on over my long underwear as a 2nd layer. I have a "Polartec 200 fleece jacket" that has kept me very warm and, is very light.  ACTUAL WEIGHT: 18 oz. COST: $60 FROM: REI
[ ] Thermal Pants/Shirt (long underwear)-First layer of warmth. Get something lightweight but, warm.
[ ] Underwear -I usually bring three pairs.  One for hiking, one for at night and one for backup so I can wash either pair.  I recently bought some quick drying / wicking underwear and love them.  My wife laughed when she saw I bought "Backpacking underwear" but, they work great.  Especially because you can wash them and they dry quick.  The ones I got are "Duofold Hydrid Coolmax".  ACTUAL WEIGHT: 2.5 oz. each COST: $10 FROM: Campmor


Medical / Emergency / Spares
[ ] Antacid -If you need this.  I find I don't need as much but still need it :-(.
[ ] Antiseptics-Should be part of any first aid kit.
[ ] Aspirin -I rarely use the stuff but, If you do need it, you better have it.
[ ] Bandage, Ace -Might be bulky but, if you twist an ankle it will be well worth it. I bring two but, I've got a bumb ankle I have to wrap it most of the time.
[ ] Bandages / Gause Pads -For small and big cuts.
[ ] Batteries, Spare -A spare NEW battery for each device (including your camera).
[ ] Blanket, Emergency-Solar, silver type. I've never had to use mine but, It's small, lightweight and it's good to know I have it.
[ ] Candle, Spare -For your lantern or, whatever you bring.
[ ] Chapstick / Lip Balm -Even if you don't normally use it.  When outside, the sun, wind and other elements will usually dry out your lips.
[ ] Cloth Tape -Great for wrapping things and repairs (duct tape works good too).
[ ] Duct Tape -I take a couple of pieces and put them on my drinking cup.  They are there if you need them and until, provide additional insulation for you cup.
[ ] Firestarter -For starting a fire when kindling is wet. I take drier lint and dip it in wax.  The wax binds together the lint and the lint acts as a wick.  If you place a couple of pieces under some wet kindling, you'll be going in no time. I put some in a film container when going at a wet or snowy time of year and always keep a couple of pieces in my waterproof match case.
[ ] First Aid Kit -The quantities and things depend on where and how long you are going. Minimums are listed separately.
[ ] Foil -Always a good thing to have. Just a few squares fold up quite small and may be used for windblock, numerous repairs or pan replacement.
[ ] Insect Repellent -Unless you know for a fact you won't need it.
[ ] Lighter, Spare -Just in case you lose your pocket one or, it gets soaked. Make sure it is new.
[ ] Matches, Waterproof -For emergency use only but, have them!  I've never used mine but, feel good having them.
[ ] Moleskin / 2nd Skin -This is a must have. Bring generous quantities. No matter how comfortable your boots, you WILL get blisters!  Use it at the first feeling of a blister or, it will be too late.
[ ] Napkins -I always bring a few heavy duty ones in my mess kit for cleaning dishes, hands, etc. Also, good fire starter.
[ ] Sewing Kit -I bring a matchbook size one with thread and a needle. Just enough for minor repairs (splits, etc.)
[ ] Sunblock -Depends on where you're going.  If in the sun of summer or, around snow you might need some.  If I bring some, I bring just enough for my face.  Bring some without any odor unless you want to attract bugs and bears.


Personal
[ ] Comb -To remove bugs, leaves, etc. from your hair. Also, for the rare rinsing of.
[ ] Flask(s) -For putting spirits in. A collapsible bottle works for carrying but, at least one flask is good to fill from it. They also double as cooking water containers when empty.
[ ] Gum -Good to have for chewing on the trail and cleaning teeth after lunch.
[ ] Lighter -For lighting candles, fires, etc.
[ ] Mirror -For possible signaling and to see how bad you really look!
[ ] Note Paper -For jotting things down.
[ ] Pen/Pencil -Pencils work good because you can re-sharpen them. I usually bring one of each.
[ ] Soap -Biodegradable of course.  I don't bring this anymore.  For one thing, you should not use this is any water. Biodegradable doe not mean immediatly.  If you do want to use it, go into the woods at least 100' from any water source.  I find that water alone does the trick though.
[ ] Sunglasses
[ ] Toilet Paper
[ ] Toothbrush/Toothpaste -Instead of bringing toothpaste I now bring baking soda which weighs less and will not attract bears.
[ ] Towel -I use a "packtowel" which is very absorbent and quick drying.
[ ] Wash Cloth -A small (kitchen 10 x 14") version of a "packtowel" made by Cascade Designs works good for this.  I took one of these and cut it in half. I use the other half in my mess kit.  WEIGHT: 1/2 oz. COST: $ FROM:
Optional / Alternate Personal
[ ] Camera -The type you bring is your call but, remember, you may never get another view like what you're seeing!
[ ] Film -Bring lots of this. There's nothing worse than running short of film.
[ ] Kool Aid Mix -I bring this to mix with my "spirits" and water since I don't like it straight up.
[ ] Microcassette Recorder -I take this to record thoughts and events. It's hard to write when walking but, easy to talk.
[ ] Tripod -If you take a camera of any kind light tripod can come in handy especially, if by yourself.  I'm using a "Pedco Ultrapod II".  WEIGHT: 4 oz. COST: $15 FROM: REI
[ ] Video Camera -Truly extra weight but, sure makes for some fond memories.


Winter Items
[ ] Coat -I got a very lightweight one that stuffs into itself to become pillow size. I have a "Columbia Cold Front". WEIGHT: 1# COST: $125 at CAMPMOR
[ ] Fuel, Extra -When cold it takes longer for water to heat and, if melting snow, it takes forever.  Plus, in extreme cold, it can be a source of heat.  I usually double what I would normally take.
[ ] Gloves, Heavy -I take a set of cross-country ski gloves for walking and Heavy Gortex snowmobile gloves (in addition to normal thins ones).
[ ] Hat, Heavy -I just bring a ski band type. This with my Outdoor Research Sombrero is usually enough.  If I need additional, I have my Ninja thing and my raincoat hood.
[ ] Goggles -Needed when you have to walk in the blowing now.  Should be with UV protection too. I'm currently using "Smith Cascade model". WEIGHT: # COST: $20 at REI.
[ ] Sleeping Pad, Extra -I take my full length "Z-Rest".  Makes for a little extra insulation between you and the snow.
[ ] Snowshoes -If you have to walk in any depth of snow above @4 inches, I would bring them and most likely use them.  I didn't buy the best nor lightest but, these seem very moneuverable and durable for the price.  I have "Atlas model 733". WEIGHT: 4#5oz COST: $95 at REI
[ ] Trekking Poles -Needed for balance in snow, going up and down and on slippery surfaces.  If in Snowshoes they are essential.  If baskets are interchangable, get baskets for snow too.  Also, if going off the trail (bushwacking) they are essential. I'm using "REI Summit model".


Fishing Items
[ ] Butter or Lard -If you plan on frying something (fish) you'll need something like this.
[ ] Fishing Pole & Stuff -If you're going somewhere with fish, they make for a good fresh meal you don't have to carry.
[ ] Knife, Fillet -If you are going to be doing any fishing, you better have a good sharp fillet knife. Only one needed for group.
[ ] Pan, Frying -If cooking fish, you might want a frying pan (although a stick over the fire works good).


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Posterity's Cloud / Life Lines Publishing
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Last edited: March 28, 2003