Whether you’re a first-time backpacker or an experienced traveler, there’s nothing worse than realizing you’d forgotten to pack an item or two for your travels. Today, camping has grown even more popular than before, with 51.4 million campers observed in 2022. The Outdoor Industry Association estimates that the share of people participating in outdoor activities in the US grew by 2.3% over the past year.
At the same time, solo travel has become an essential travel trend, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in new cultures better while enjoying the freedom of traveling solo — free from the typical constraints associated with traveling with a friend or group.
If you, like many others, are looking into backpacking anytime soon — solo or not — you must have everything you need. As a backpacker, packing smart can make a difference in ensuring comfort, safety, health, and an overall positive travel experience. Below, we’ll share some backpacking essentials for you to include in your packing list:
Vagabondish is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission. Read our disclosure.
The right backpack
Of the numerous backpacking essentials, of course, is the backpack. Today, backpacks come in various sizes and features, each useful for the average backpacker, depending on your travel needs and expectations. Backpacks like Oakley’s Road Trip Rc has padded shoulder straps for all-day comfort and isn’t humongous at 26L. Its size helps save travelers the worry of carrying an oversized, heavy backpack all day.
You should also check for inner pockets and compartments so your backpacking essentials are neatly organized and easy to access. Nowadays, backpacks meant for the outdoors often have a dedicated slot for a water bottle and even a laptop if you’re a digital nomad.
Money and travel documents
Regardless of your destination, you should always have your necessary travel documents with you. This includes passport, tickets, and travel insurance, which — aside from essential identification — may all come in handy in case of an emergency. Don’t forget to always carry some money with you, in both cash and cards, just in case you may need to buy or pay for products or services along the way.
When packing physical money, make sure to spread it around several spots instead of keeping it all in one pocket or zipper bag. This ensures that if you lose or get your bag stolen, you’ll still have some money left to get you home. The same principle applies to physical credit or debit cards and those virtual cash cards on your smartphone.
Travel-appropriate shoes
Next, you’ll want to make sure you’re dressed appropriately for your backpacking trip and have enough spare clothes packed for the duration of your travel. This includes one or two pairs of trusty shoes. Depending on your destination and terrain, sneakers may do, or you may need hiking shoes that offer protection, durability, and comfort for long walks on various terrains.
When choosing your backpacking shoes, prioritize protection for your feet from potential cuts or damage by elements. You should also be comfortable in them and can use them for long periods without getting blisters. Finally, you’ll want a pair of lightweight shoes like the Merrel Moab — as they have beefy soles and uppers for protection while also being made from ventilated and breathable material. This ensures you aren’t easily knocked off balance and can delay fatigue if you have to walk long miles.
Weather protection
Finally, depending on where and when you plan on embarking on your backpacking trip, you’ll need to be prepared for the local weather. Do some research and figure out how the climate and temperature will be at your chosen backpacking destinations, then pack appropriate weather protection items accordingly — whether it’s sunscreen and sunglasses or wool mittens and an extra jumper.
For hotter destinations, a decent pair of sunglasses can provide sun protection while helping you see more clearly, preventing accidents or missteps. In the cold, however, thermal base layers are a must-have to keep you warm under a good, thick jumper. Pack a hat to provide shade from the glaring sun, or keep your head wrapped warm in colder climates.