MYOG, The Basics, Trip Planning

Backpacking Gear List: Summer 2015

I try to keep all of my backpacking gear organized. I lay it out like this at home before heading out, and then again each night of my hike.
I try to keep all of my backpacking equipment organized. I lay it out like this at home before heading out, and then again each night of my hike.

When I was learning to backpack, I found it helpful when others posted their gear lists.  It gave me a reference point for the kinds of things I needed, what I was doing right, and what I could be doing better.  That said, there is no “one size fits all” gear list.  There are a number of personal factors that go into making a gear list, such as size, weight, fitness level, and need for comfort.  It also matters where and when you plan to go backpacking.  One must factor in temperature, precipitation, terrain, water availability and natural shelter, among other things.

 A Summer Backpacking Gear List must fit your style

My backpacking style is fairly minimalist and would be considered Ultralight.  My summer load weighs in at about 9 lbs without food, water, or fuel.    I’m not a fan of complicated meals and I usually stick to simple food that doesn’t need cooking or just needs hot water.  I’m usually never cold, so I don’t need much in the way of insulation, even on the coolest of summer nights.

Where and when do you hike?

Most of my backpacking is done in Norther New Jersey or Southern New York, but I occasionally head to the Adirondacks.  I designed my summer backpacking gear list for weekend trips in temperatures ranging from 60 to 95 degrees.    The hills form natural wind breaks, but my most frequent backpacks are into areas with available lean-to shelters, if the weather gets really bad.

My 2014 Summer Backpacking Gear List

Packing

Shelter

Sleep System

Hydration

Cooking/Eating/Food Storage

Clothing – Carried

Clothing – Worn

Accessories

I usually inventory my backpacking gear every day during a trip.
I usually inventory my backpacking gear every day during a trip.

 

Also check out my Winter Backpacking Gear List