10 Backpacking Accessories You Shouldn’t Travel Without | New backpacking gear is fun to collect whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned backpacker. However, finding the right backpacking accessories is essential for the best experiences, and most people have trouble deciding what they really need. This leaves them with heavy, overstuffed packs that are difficult to carry.
In this backpacker gear guide, we provide a list of the top backpacking essentials. You’ll know exactly what you need for your first (or next) trip. Continue reading so you’re prepared for the best adventure.
- Hiking Shoes
Good shoes should be your top consideration as far as backpacking accessories go. The right shoes can make the most difficult trails more bearable, while the wrong shoes can make even the easiest trails miserable.
Your choices range from hiking boots with improved ankle support to lightweight trail running shoes. Whatever option you choose, make sure they’re high quality and comfortable.
- Backpack
Out of our backpacker gear guide, there are few backpacking essentials more important than the right backpack. This is what will hold the entirety of your gear. The two primary considerations for a good backpack are size and comfort.
You want a backpack that feels comfortable enough for long treks, but large enough to hold all of your things. Backpacking pros recommend trying on a pack in person before buying. Make sure it has some weight in it as well since it can feel completely different once weighted down.
- Sleeping Bag
When selecting new backpacking gear, you want to make sure it’s ultralight backpacking gear, and that includes your sleeping bag. Ensure you select the right seasonality and temperature rating. For example, if you’ll be camping in freezing temperatures, you’ll want a 0°C sleeping bag or colder to stay warm.
There are different styles to choose from as well. The most popular backpacking options for warmth include mummy sleeping bags and barrel-shaped sleeping bags. A warmer weather option would be a traditional rectangular sleeping bag.
- Backpacking Tent/Hammock
Another piece for your ultralight backpacking gear checklist should be a tent or hammock. A hammock is only recommended for warmer climates with minimal precipitation. They can be great for a quick set-up and tear down on the trail.
If you need more shelter, a tent is the better option for you. Make sure it’s lightweight and compact so that it’s easy to carry over long distances.
- Trekking Poles
Trekking poles are important hiking accessories to protect your joints from the impact of long and harsh trails. They are especially useful on steep trails or when descending from a mountain. Plus, they make hiking easier overall by allowing for more stability.
You’ll have to choose between a folding or telescoping set based on personal preference. The important thing is that they can be easily tucked away when not in use. Consider finding a backpack that has holders for your trekking poles for easy storage.
- Packing Cubes
Another essential on our list of backpacking accessories is a set of packing cubes. These will make your life on the trail much easier. They keep your belongings compact and organized in a small pouch.
This means you no longer have to empty out your entire pack to get what you need. You just need to go through one packing cube. They’re reliable in maximizing the space in your backpack.
- Navigation
Navigation is essential on any backpacking trip. Whether it be a traditional map or a high-tech GPS, you need something to be able to find your way. Another useful option is a hiking app you can download onto your smartphone.
Make sure you know how to use your new backpacking gear before heading out on the trail. It’s also a good idea to have your path mapped out ahead of time so you know where you’re going and when you expect to be back. Always share your trail with someone before heading out.
- Water Bottle or Hydration Bladder
Next in our backpacking gear guide is water. While a water bottle will suffice, a hydration bladder may be a more convenient option. Hydration bladders are hiking accessories that fit into your backpack with a drinking spout that sits at your shoulder.
This makes water easily accessible while you’re hiking. It makes staying hydrated simple, which is especially important on strenuous treks. You’ll also want easy water access for cooking and cleaning.
- Headlamp
A headlamp is invaluable in terms of hiking accessories. While a flashlight or lantern is also handy, a headlamp is highly recommended. Not only does it provide ample light, but it also allows you to keep your hands free.
This is convenient if you get stuck out on the trail in the dark or around camp. Some even offer a red light setting so as not to negatively impact your night vision.
- Tools
When investing in new backpacking gear, you should consider the tools you’ll need on the trail. A multitool is important for a variety of uses such as opening cans, cutting food, and opening bottles. A camp stove also comes in handy for heating up food and water for cooking.
A good saw is another important tool to add to your pack. The best backpacking folding saw can help cut back branches or cut down wood for a campfire.
Collect Your Backpacking Accessories
Use this backpacker gear guide to collect the essential backpacking accessories for your next adventure. While new backpacking gear is fun to collect, make sure to only collect the essentials so you have less to carry. Even better, make sure it’s ultralight backpacking gear.
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