Ultimate Overnight Trip Packing List
Everything you need for a successful campout—and nothing you don't
Packing smart means packing light. This comprehensive checklist covers all the essentials for overnight trips, from wilderness backpacking to car camping. Learn what to bring, how to pack it, and what mistakes to avoid so you can focus on the adventure instead of your gear.
- The Big Four: shelter, sleep system, backpack, clothing layers
- Essential safety items: first aid, navigation, emergency supplies
- Food and cooking gear for backcountry meals
- Personal hygiene and sanitation in the outdoors
- Tools, repair kits, and multi-use items
- How to pack your backpack for balance and accessibility
The difference between a miserable trip and a great adventure often comes down to what's in your pack. Forget your rain jacket? You'll be soaked and cold. Overpack unnecessary items? Your back will hate you by mile three. This checklist helps you dial in your gear so you're prepared, comfortable, and ready for anything the trail throws at you.
Shelter & Sleep System
Tent or tarp shelter, sleeping bag rated for expected temps, sleeping pad (foam or inflatable), ground cloth or footprint. Don't skimp on sleep gear—a bad night means a bad day on the trail.
Clothing Layers (The 3-Layer System)
Base layer (moisture-wicking), insulation layer (fleece or puffy jacket), outer shell (rain/windproof). Extra socks, hat, gloves. Cotton kills—stick to synthetic or wool.
Food & Cooking
Camp stove and fuel, cookpot, utensils, food for all meals plus snacks, water bottles (2L minimum), water filter or purification tablets. Plan 1.5-2 lbs of food per person per day.
Safety & Navigation
First aid kit, headlamp with extra batteries, map and compass, whistle, knife or multi-tool, fire starter, emergency shelter (space blanket). Know how to use everything before you need it.
Personal Items
Toothbrush and paste, biodegradable soap, toilet paper (pack it out!), sunscreen, bug spray, medications, glasses/contacts. Keep these in a waterproof bag.
- 1.Print this checklist and laminate it for repeated use
- 2.Do a full pack shakedown before each trip—spread everything out
- 3.Weigh your pack: aim for under 20% of your body weight
- 4.Practice packing and unpacking efficiently
- 5.After each trip, note what you didn't use (leave it home next time)