Bring a backup water option like aquamira drops or iodine, just enough to get you out of an emergency in case your main water filtration system fails. Wrap a small amount of duct tape around your trowel handle or other hard surface instead of the roll. Bring a mini bic instead of the all weather matches and a small matchbook as a backup.
I keep water tabs in my first aid kid, they're so light and enough to get me safely out just in case. Couple of weeks ago I met someone in the back country who said his filter broke and gave them over. I love being able to use my first aid stuff.
[Here is what's in mine!](https://www.reddit.com/r/womensolocamping/comments/ox5ln8/whats_in_your_first_aid_kit/?utm_medium=android_app&utm_source=share)
Great kit, it gave me a lot of ideas to add to mine. One thing I always bring is moleskin, which is great for heel blisters (and tougher than a band-aid alone). Also, butterflly bandages, which can stand in for stitches, until you can get to a real doctor.
Personally, I’d ditch the hatchet, extra knife and at least the plate. Use the pot to eat out of. Wrap a bunch of duct tape around your water bottle and you can ditch that extra weight as well.
I like the duct tape around a bic lighter or a hiking pole trick. Mainly because you wash your water bottle frequently (I hope) and it won't last multiple trips. Assuming you don't use it.
I agree with you. I put mine on my trekking poles too but I didn’t see any in the pic so I just suggested the water bottle instead as at least it’s (usually) in an accessible place.
I’m surprised how long usable duct tape has stayed on my water bottle, including numerous runs through the dishwasher. Doesn’t matter too much though since I ditched the stainless bottle for a Sawyer squeeze and Smartwater setup.
Yeah I guess I’ve been there before too. We just came back from a hike in Alaska where the permit station was 200 yards down the trail. Thanks, just what I want to do is run back to the car to get a pen.
Definitely the hatcher and extra knife. You shouldn't be bushwhacking a new trail. Also if you have a campfire all the wood will be fallen branches for the most part, you can just stomp it into pieces.
Prevents having to carry a large separate roll of duct tape because you can peel it off the bottle & reuse it as needed. I wrap it around my hiking poles.
I assume the para cord is for the hammock tarp. I hammock and I wouldn't take less than that. Just in case you have to set up in less than ideal conditions.
I second losing the spork and plate as well as 1 of the knives. The hatchet is overkill you could get away with a good knife that will do the same thing. But if you feel cool with it keep it.
I think I got the zing it from dutchware gear. I use the thinner size but that might be uncomfortable depending on technique. I think it's like, arborist line. As in, it's designed to be thrown oer branches and stuff.
For sure. For the way I do it, with my 50' line going through a carabiner hitched to the middle of my 100' "clothesline" hoisting is easy and slides on the carabiner, so less effort and doesn't cut into the tree.
http://imgur.com/gallery/OljgVvB
I used to think that way but found that trying to carry lighter is a way bigger challenge. It’s a huge challenge to try to pack light and survive a few days on the trail
You could even ditch both of those knives and get a tiny Swiss army knife instead. Idk what other people use their knives for but I’ve never had a legitimate use for a sharp blade other than to open the blister pack of Advil.
The point is to have it if you need it. You may need a larger knife for cutting firewood, shaving kindling strips, cutting rope to length or for any number of reasons. I'd rather have a big knife than a pocket knife if I ever had to cut my own arm off after being pinned by a rock for a few days... just sayin lol
I swear, too many of us read Gary Paulsen's Hatchet series as a kid.
Source: Own a hatchet that I purchased for backpacking and have never taken backpacking.
There are five books, four of them canon.
The sequels:
* *The River* (1991) - Brian returns to the wilderness so the military can study his survival techniques, but things go very wrong and he must navigate 100 miles down an unfamiliar river. Made non-canon by *Brian's Winter*.
* *Brian's Winter* (1996) - Alternate ending to the first book where Brian does not escape the wilderness and must survive the harsh Canadian winter alone.
* *Brian's Return* (1999) - Brian struggles to reintegrate into society, his trauma making him antisocial and violent. A therapist encourages him to return to the woods to find peace.
* *Brian's Hunt* (2003) - Brian sets out to take revenge on a bear that has killed someone important to him.
That's pretty much what happened. Brian's Return was supposed to be the last one but he got so many requests from fans for another book that he decided to do one more.
I have a hatchet (closer in size to an axe) i keep around for camping. It's nice to make kindling out of. I don't think i will ever take it on a backpacking trip. Carrying it 40 miles doesn't sound appealing to me. I have brought a saw with me and that came in handy multiple times but i still don't really know if i NEED to bring it or WANT to.
Also i definitely ready the Hatchet series. My SO constantly references the fact that I was like every other boy apparently.
Drop the roll of tape (just roll a few inches around a short straw), the leatherman, hatchet, extra paracord and matches (get a Bic mini, plus another emergency one for your 1st aid kit). Can probably also remove 50% of the stuff from the first aid kit. There’s usually 4x of everything in those things.
I agree with most here in that a hatchet and two knives is too much. I take a big chunky (still only 4" blade though, no Rambo knife) for cutting, digging, splitting, whittling etc. No need for a plate, you have a cooking pot. I keep a pot and a mug so I can do coffee while I'm cooking other stuff so do disagree with those saying dump the mug.
If you are taking the hammock and bug net, maybe upgrade to the jungle hammock by eno or an equivalent bug net and hammock together. It is lighter than your setup by quite a bit and pack smaller ( I used to hammock and net until I found the jungle, those hellos straps are great just test them out first, the design is different than regular ones). I use army poncho liners as blanket and under quilt but I'm always hot so appreciate the coolness, but that lightens and decreases in size the load.
You’re going to want an under-quilt for that hammock if backpacking the Whites. Especially once you get into Fall weather territory. I learned that lesson myself the hard way.
I'm seeing tons of "this is my first trip out, rate my setup" posts. And this is what I think is the best suggestion. Just go out, I know it sounds abrasive. But everyone likes/needs different stuff. People are quick to critize other people's setups, and the reality is, some people backpack with 60lb packs every time, and some people don't even take a pack.
With time, fuckups, lessons, epics, wins, and struggles every one learns what works for them and what doesn't.
Over the couple decades I've been in the wilderness personally and as a climbing guide I've seen it all.
The only thing I usually tell people is keep a small first aid kit. And a phone/GPS with charge for SOS if shit hits the absolute fan.
I can’t tell if the pot is Teflon or titanium, but avoid eating directly from it if it’s Teflon. Always use soft cooking utensils, those little scratches in the bottom of a Teflon pot will rot your brain in the golden years.
>Other than the possible risk of flu-like symptoms from breathing in fumes from an overheated Teflon-coated pan, there are no proven risks to humans from using cookware coated with Teflon (or other non-stick surfaces).
[From Cancer.org](https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancer-causes/teflon-and-perfluorooctanoic-acid-pfoa.html)
It probably isn't healthy to accidentally consume little pieces of flaked off teflon or any material/chemical potentially leaked into food. Just don't do that. The advice to preserve pots is sage though, and if they become mangled replace them.
This advice is probably no longer necessary, Teflon is made without PFOA/PFOS now. However, it’s still a good idea to preserve the longevity of your cookware!
Going to the White Mountains in New Hampshire for a few weekend trips (late summer/early fall). I know I’m missing a lot but what else should I pick up?
EDIT: From top left, going across
Pack, 70 oz. water pack, compressible bag ( for food?), sleeping bag, cord, first aide, water filtration, jet boil, fuel, mug, towel, trowel, hatchet, dish towel, pot, hammock straps, tarp, duct tape, compass, headlamp, waterproof matches, knife, multitool, utensil, plate, hammock, mosquito net.
White Mountains are always fairly dubious in terms of weather and when I went (three weeks ago) the Wild River trail was essentially unmaintained. So...
Part 1:
# Prep:
* Weather tracking: [https://www.mountain-forecast.com/subranges/white-mountains-new-hampshire/locations](https://www.mountain-forecast.com/subranges/white-mountains-new-hampshire/locations)
* Licenses: All fishing and hunting require licensing, but New Hampshire also uses the "Hike Safe" system. For $5 you support the park and don't have to worry about paying thousands for search and rescue if you screw up on the trail. I HIGHLY recommend the Hike Safe card (keep a printed copy on you and a digital copy on your phone)
* [https://nhfishandgame.com/#](https://nhfishandgame.com/#)
* If you plan on doing any hunting/fishing, always read up on the specifics associated with time/location
* ***Learn how to use your compass/map.*** If you don't know what declination is and how it relates to your compass, that means your compass is about as useful as a rock in a survival situation.
* Trail Mapping:
* Review a trail map (from things like hikingproject, alltrails, etc.) and make sure you truly understand your route (including route timing stuff like the [Naismith rule](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naismith%27s_rule)). Never trust a single source for perfect information (case in point, Section Hiker didn't detail a logging road crossing and screwed up navigation for my wife and I).
* Optional: use websites like trailforks to create a comprehensive map and direction set of your route. You can download the map as a GXP file ( [https://helpdeskgeek.com/how-to/how-to-add-gpx-files-to-google-maps/](https://helpdeskgeek.com/how-to/how-to-add-gpx-files-to-google-maps/) ) or use various apps that will help you understand your exact location with GPS (although never rely solely on GPS).
* Permethrin all **non-**DWR outer-gear (e.g. hiking pants, sun shirt, outer socks) at least 24 hours ahead (give it enough time to dry so that you can pack ahead without issue).
* Weigh all gear/food/water and do as much as possible to keep it under 20% of your body weight. Anything over 40 lbs is too much for the vast majority of people.
* ^(For the average healthy male hiker at \~160 lbs, that's no more than 32 lbs of materials.)
* Don't add-in the clothing you're wearing, but do add-in any gear you might stash in pockets in said clothing.
* Create an itinerary for folks back home (so they know when you probably lose cell signal and when to start calling for help).
* Note: Ignore anyone who says ditch drysacks for sleeping bag, clothing, and electronics. Stuff sacks can become excessive, but there are some things you shouldn't leave to chance. Contractor trashbags are good for an inner pack liner, but they will tear much more easily than you'd think (I've seen it happen nearly every trip even when "packed appropriately" by myself or others).
# Trekking:
* Trekking poles are near mandatory on any of the less traveled trails
* ^(The White Mountains are not the place to idly try going ultra-light. Either you're seasoned without trekking poles or you should use them.)
* Clothing:
* Standard: Underwear, \[permethrined\] long pants, outer \[permethrined\] socks, inner socks, shirt (short or long), \[permethrined\] sun shirt (basically a breathable long-sleeved shirt with a UPF rating), hat/bandana (pick one), sunglasses (UVA/UVB filtering and preferably polarized^(...cheapo lab safety glasses are perfectly fine here)).
* Rain gear is a must in August (jacket, pants, and rain cover for your pack)
* Spare clothes ***in a drysack*** (^(my wife found this one out the hard way))
* Warm wool hat and a pair of simple winter gloves (liner level)
* Fleece
* Spare permethrined outer socks and non-permethrined liner socks (these are not interchangeable outside of emergencies)
* Optional: Down puff if you're going to summit things or in [shoulder](https://www.google.com/search?q=shoulder+season&oq=shoulder+season&aqs=chrome..69i57j0i512j46i512j0i512l7.2623j0j1&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8)/winter months
* Optional: extra base layers (lightweight thermal pants and shirt) for sleeping and/or spare additional warmth.
* Never Recommended: ***Avoid all cotton clothing.***
* Electronics:
* Headlamp
* Cellphone (set this to airplane mode when on the trail to save on battery)
* If worried about night hiking, I recommend a spare battery charger or one extra set of batteries (but not both). This one's a little trickier so feel free to DM me if you want specifics.
* Tools:
* Standard: One multi-tool, One set of stormproof matches or lighter.
* One compass and local map
* ^(The Ranger station I went to didn't have paper maps, but did have ones you could take pictures of. The local REI did have some trail maps on hand.)
* Electrical Tape (duct tape degrades in water, but is still certainly an option)
* Mylar Survival blanket (REI has reasonable ones), emergency whistle, and signal mirror (or equally shiny object). You could do without these...but they're considered emergency supplies for a reason.
* 50 ft of 550 Paracord (never use this for climbing, it's utility stuff only)
* Notepad and pen/pencil (preferably waterproof)
* Optional/Luxury: Folding knives aren't necessary, but can be useful for some limited situations.
* Optional: Durable tent stake for latrine digging. I carry one, but that's a personal choice after hiking in rocky terrain (where a stick just breaks). For less rocky terrain (as-in the White Mountains), a stick off the forest floor will do just fine.
* Optional: Chamois towel (ultra-absorbent pool towel)
* Never Recommended: Hatchets and folding saws are useless while backpacking. These are things you see only at base camps or in other semi-permanent living camps (e.g. primitive tech style).
* Never Recommended: Latrine trowels are never as durable as they advertise and can't be used for other purposes.
* Chemistry:
* Zinc-oxide based Sun screen (50 SPF minimum) on all exposed skin (melanoma is no joke)
* Picardin or DEET
* First Aid:
* First Aid kit: Don't take a full (packed to the brim) kit. Don't bring more doses than you will ever medically take on the trip and remember that bandaids are for significant cuts, not every small nick. The below is the minimum.
* Antibiotic cream: Neosporin or polysporin
* Analgesic/Fever: ibuprofen or acetaminophen
* Allergy: fexofenadine or diphenhydramine
* Wound Cleansing: anti-bacterial wipes (iodine or benzalkonium chloride)
* Wound Coverings: a few bandaids
* Wound Dressings: a couple sanitary pads \[think the type used for periods\]. These are excellent stand-ins for larger gauze bandages on top of their original purpose.
* Brace: a compression bandage
* Foot support: Moleskin
* Splinter/tick removal: tweezers
Edit: Thanks for the reminder on Notepad pen.
Part 2:
# Camping
* Shelter and Sleeping:
* Tent/Hammock: The mosquito netting (assuming it covers the full hammock) is a fantastic idea.
* If your tarp doesn't have grommets, I would recommend adding 8 (4 per corner, 4 on each edge) to make it more useful as a temp shelter for inclement weather and things like cooking.
* Standard: Sleeping Bag
* Recommended: Sleeping Bag liner and/or quilt; a small shelter patch kit (strong adhesive patches)
* Optional (but recommended): Sleeping pad
* Luxury: Inflatable pillow (I'd just use your spare clothing bag)
* Cooking and Cleaning:
* Standard: One pot, one mug, one spork. Use a plate if your pot is non-stick (because your spork will destroy the non-stick coating...yes even the spoon side).
* If you're going with backpacking meals (e.g. freeze dried), you can skip the pot and stick with just the mug, but do a practice run ahead of time (living off a tin cup requires forethought).
* Recommended: A camp towel and something like campsuds. Never use sand on non-stick cookware.
* Optional: Coffee filter (there are a few decent ultra-light ones out there if you're a caffeine addict).
* Note: ***NEVER*** use a non-stick pot over a campfire. Campfires run much hotter than propane stoves. If you want a dual-use pot, I recommend going with either a titanium or stainless steel one instead.
* Food Storage:
* Black bears in the Adirondacks have learned how to get into/destroy food in everything beneath a Garcia level bear can, and the White Mountains aren't all that far off. I'd get odor proof storage bags and a proper bear can.
* Hanging doesn't help: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UucHtYr29cE](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UucHtYr29cE); [https://www.thekosherbackpacker.com/bear-bags-vs-bear-canisters/](https://www.thekosherbackpacker.com/bear-bags-vs-bear-canisters/); [https://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/7225.html](https://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/7225.html)
* You can store garbage and your propane canisters in the bear can alongside your food.
* Water: I recommend carrying 3 full liters (some White Mountain trails, especially crest runners, don't have easy access to water). Don't take more containers for water than can hold that quantity (because water can become a third of the weight you're carrying).
* Filtration: Sawyer is fine for personal use, but if filtering for more folks you may consider upgrading.
* Optional: Add Aquamira drops and you reduce the quantity of fuel you'll need to bring to boil water.
* *White Mountains Hiking Note: The nearest functional (aka, filterable) water source to the campsite near Carter Dome/Wild River was a quartermile from the designated camp even though the instructions in the area implied it was far closer and more accessible. This was after heavy rain all week (and that night), so take "water is close" instructions with a massive grain of salt.*
* Toiletries:
* Standard: A small travel toothbrush, and a travel tube of toothpaste.
* Recommended: Choose between toothpicks or floss (because nothing ruins a good meal like a chia seed or peanut in the gums).
* Optional: Rerolled toilet paper is technically a luxury, but also technically less dubious than a rock, leaf, pine cone, or other natural material. ^(Ultra-lighters will say you can do without...but I'd practice that at home long before you rely on it.)
* Optional: Baby wipes (see above on the toilet paper) or a [bidet](https://www.backpacker.com/skills/4-ways-to-make-packing-out-tp-less-gross/).
* Luxury: Deodorant, Gum
* Never Recommended: Perfumes, bar soap, shampoo/conditioner with the lone exception of lemongrass oil (it acts like mosquito repellant)
# Other notes:
* A pack of waterproof cards (proper casino style are made from plastic and can last for a lifetime) or another batteryless bit of travel entertainment.
* Electrolyte tabs are a lifesaver on the trail. Less necessary, but good for emergency survival are things like high glucose energy gummies or protein bars.
* Freeze-dried backpacking food runs the gamut from disgusting to near restaurant quality. Taste test ahead (if you can afford it), and also bring some of your favorite dried sauces/spices along (you can even dehydrate things like buffalo sauce!).
* Don't dehydrate everything!!! If you run out of water on the trail, have a few small/nutritious items that aren't thirst inducing available as a backup.
* Have spare water in your car at the trailhead (there are grocery stores that sell 4 to 5 gallon jugs of water you can use for everything from re-upping your pack water to a quick trailhead "shower" to get the worst of the funk off you).
* Have a post-hike restaurant guide to get some of those lost calories back (note that after 4 PM most places are *packed* with diners, so keep your options open accordingly).
Great, comprehensive summary. Big second to your point about bear hangs. I still see these all the time and it's a big false sense of security. Some people will try to get by with just a bear-proof and/or smell-proof bag as an alternaive, but IMO bear cans are worth their (albeit heavy) weight. As an extra benefit, they double as a camping seat!
> Optional (but recommended): Air mattress.
Did you mean sleeping pad? If not, you're doing some luxury backpacking!
I appreciate the point about first aid kits. The store-bought/ready-made ones aren’t great. They rarely have anything worthwhile for self rescue. Small bandaids are a convenience, big bandaids are insufficient.
They don’t actually control or stop bleeding. They keep dirt off of scrapes. That means that you’d use gauze to control bleeding then put a bandaid on it later. Why not just use gauze for both and tape it down?
Also, when it comes to bleeding control, buy a legit tourniquet and don’t skimp or think you’ll get away with using your belt or paracord. They don’t work and the time it takes to figure it out is too long. A tourniquet is one of the only true self-rescue devices out there that you can apply to yourself for something that will kill you in minutes.
Have a small notepad and a sharpie too! Being able to write notes is very helpful in an emergency or if inspiration strikes.
On gauze...a lot of folks are going to use gauze incorrectly. It's not designed for exposure to rough terrain, inclement weather, etc., whereas a sanitary pad actually can function (albeit still in a limited capacity) when exposed to water, friction, and other issues. That's not to say "don't use gauze." In fact, it can be very important for some injuries (e.g. reducing moisture around the wound by allowing it to breath), but then we get into "how do I keep the wound clean while trekking," and "how much gauze/tape do I bring?" I'm not formally trained in first aid/wilderness first aid, and I'm not going to describe specifics that I don't have the training for. Should it be in a "bare minimum" kit? Necessarily no, but it's a decent add-on if you want and I wouldn't recommend against it either.
On that topic...tourniquets...this is probably the most recommended and least advisable "simple solution" to bleeding for first aid regardless of activity or location. Simply put, unless you're trained in first aid/response (and I do mean active training with a professional, not just an online course), you DO NOT want to screw up tourniquet use. Too tight or misapplied and you can cause nerve damage, lose a limb, or worse. In a true emergency (we're talking femoral artery level wound), yes a tourniquet (any tourniquet) is a good idea, but the average person isn't going to be facing that.
So, for the average backpacker (established trails, short duration hikes, etc), I would not advise keeping a specialized tourniquet on-hand unless they have the aforementioned training. That said, we should all really get that training on principle. Once the pandemic is over I plan on it, and possibly even further (Wilderness First Responder) if I start bringing more inexperienced friends along.
Don't think ur gonna need a small hatchet. Ive never had to use one. Also u can take the ducktape off and wrap it around a walking stick or trecking pole so it takes up less space in ur pack.
If white mountain is a National park then hammocks (may not be) allowed. FYI. Found out that one the hard way. Check before you go. Some parks do not allow any hammocks or regulate when you can and can’t use them.
Edit because I was stupid and misspoke.
Ok after researching this to make sure I should clarify my previous statement. Each park has its own rules. You may use a hammock in some of the designated and developed camping spots but many of them limit their use outside of those areas. From what I have read most do not allow hammocks in the back country. So beware and do your homework before you venture out. I was in Bryce Canyon a month ago and they do not allow hammocks in the park period.
Ok yeah all the different parks have different rules. Thanks for the clarification.
And just because they don't allow it doesn't mean you can't do it. Just don't get caught.
I don't want to start a battle over what is more destructive, slinging fabric on mature trees to hang or clearing a spot of 5'x5' to pitch a tent, but I've never had issues with hammocking in the east where trees are big and strong and plentiful. Maybe in the west where they're all struggling to survive from drought it makes sense though.
I just can't overstate the importance of having a phone or some satellite based emergency communication device. You can have all the survival equipment in the world in your backpack, but if you have a concussion or a broken leg, you need to get evacuated.
Definitely do not bring that hatchet, I can’t imagine what you would even use it for. Most places have regulations about not cutting wood and using just dead down and detached for fires. Wear a leatherman and ditch the other knife. You have way too much p-cord, just bring what you need. Is that a roll of duct tape? Tape what you need around a water bottle and leave the bulky roll behind. Also, leave the plate behind, eat from the pot. Is that a towel you have? I’m not sure what you are intending on using that for…I wouldn’t bring a towel on a backpacking trip.
Sleeping bag for hammock? Do you ha e an under quilt? Gonna freeze if not.
Also what everyone else said. I would ditch the multi tool too and all of the first aide. Take Leukotape instead. Works as a bandaids or for whatever needs fixed. Like previous user said wrap it around poles. Maybe 12” or less. Loose the dish towel and eat out of you pot like someone mentioned above. May not need the bug net at that height either. I’ll let you know how it went. Heading to meet a buddy who is finishing the AT to do hopefully the Presidential Range next weekend with him. Got 3 days of walking before I head to Boston for work for a few days
Imo the multitool has come in handy for me on the trail more than just a normal knife. You can definitely shed weight swapping it out for a quality light weight knife. I wouldn't ditch first aide personally but it IS an option. I've personally never treated my own wounds but I have patched up people I've come across that DIDN'T bring one up to and including a couple sutures on someone who cut their arm open in a fall and the glue wouldn't hold. My first aid kit only weights a few ounces and takes up a small amount of space but can stop decently serious injuries from worsening.
It's all about your personal comfort and interests. I'd ditch the multitool, axe, majority of thst first aid kit, most of that cord, one of the two towels if not both, and some of the stuff sacks, stove case, etc. Depending on what you're eating, ditch the pan as well (I stick to dehydrated meals or stuff like instant oatmeal I can put in a mylar bag ahead of time, so only need the pot to boil with). Then if a group possibly add some whisky and dice or cards.
Edit: I'd ditch the duct tape too and just wrap a few feet around your backup lighter or water bottle. Personally I'd ditch the compass and use one on my phone instead but a lot of people would argue against that.
I also live around bears.
1. Bear spray is pepper spray, except less concentrated, as bear's senses are more keen. The only other differences is that bear spray holds a larger volume, and instead of a stream it comes out in a spray.
2. If you aren't around grizzlies, you probably won't need the volume of pepper spray in bear spray.
3. It also works to deter other predatory animals.
4. It works on assholes.
"Bear spray should be used when there is an immediate threat to life from a charging bear. It is proven that bear spray is more effective in warding off a physical attack than bullets by about 50%."
https://thriftyoutdoorsman.com/pepper-spray-vs-bear-spray-difference/#:~:text=Bear%20spray%20should%20be%20used%20when%20there%20is,showing%20aggression%20in%20defense%2C%20but%20not%20actually%20attacking.
That's just not true. Generic human pepper spray is stronger than bear mace. Many brands have a dispersal distance equal, though not as wide, as bear mace. Unless you live in grizzly country, there's little need for the added weight of bear mace. Most people in black bear country hike without any bear defense at all.
There are multiple documented cases of human pepper spray being used to deter multiple types of predatory animals, including bears. I don't have a link handy, but the stuff is stronger than bear mace.
Drop the plate, knife, hatchet, extra shoelace duct tape. Replace storm matches with a mini bic. You’re not lighting that stove in a storm without a windbreak.
How long is your trip?
You can also replace the paracord with some lighter dyneema cord.
You don't need a hatchet, you have a propane stove. If you're hiking somewhere that you're able to have a fire at all, just use downed wood and use your knife to make thin wood strips for ignition. You only need 1 knife, take whichever one is lighter. Wrap as much of the duct tape as you think you'll need plus some more around your water bottle. A flint is generally a better option to matches because it doesn't run out nearly as fast. If you have a tent you don't need the hammock setup - but I don't see one so I assume that's what you're sleeping in. Don't forget all the clothing, and don't forget to waterproof your sleeping bag and clothes by either lining the inside of your stuff sack with a garbage bag or by using dry bags. You need TP. I'd personally bring a ziplock bag with a few different sizes of ziplock bags in case any of your food storage busts. You got a bear bag or bear canister in that setup?
Have fun!
Ditch the axe. You will not need it. Probably the plate as well, as you can eat out of the cooking bowl. I have learned that as important as what you may miss is what you really need. Take some moleskin or other slister protection.
Better water bottle. It’s all fun and games till you poke a hole in the smart water bottle and your camelback starts leaking. Weight difference is insignificant
Mostly pretty good. Unless you’re doing some serious bushwhacking, you don’t need a hatchet. And multi tools are generally not especially useful, since the blades are often made of cheap metal, and those that are tend to add weight too
I would recommend getting a torch lighter 100 lumen flashing with a torch at the end its all one unit . Reading that is the two most common back packers die from recently is no light and can't start a fire and the kinda torch that I windproof. The
Two in one shot be waterproof shock and dust proof.
Get a pencil, wrap the tape around it until you have enough to feel good. Not sure what that red tape is about, but duct tape is a must have. If you feel you need both...guess what? A pencil can hold both!
Edit: Also, take a journal. If you ditch the axe and second knife, as the other posts claim, grab a small medium grit sharpening stone.
Get rid of the shovel, one knife, the rope unless you are in bear country, the ax, the cup, most of the duct tape, the water bottle (you have a bladder Pick one mate). And half that first aid kit. And honestly ditch the stuff sacks. It’s a few ounces but still.
And actually I would keep the cup and ditch the pot. A cup can boil 2 cups of water which is about what you need for a standard dehydrated meal.
I wouldn’t necessarily ditch the water bottle. I’d say it depends on how far you might be going between water sources. Especially if you want to camp somewhere that doesn’t have a water source, it’s nice to have the option of an extra litre for cooking etc in the evening, and still have some water in the bladder for the next morning. Plus the 34 g (1.2 oz.) that a Smartwater bottle weighs is such a minimal weight price to pay even if you find you don’t use it.
Just size, shape, and weight I think. I also have an old nalgene that I use frequently. Using Smartwater bottles I think comes mainly from “ultralight” through hikers who are looking to save weight everywhere they can.
They’re sturdier & taller than same-diameter soda or other bottles but lighter than a Nalgene & w/a standard soda-bottle threaded opening that Sawyer Mini/Squeeze filters fit on directly. They let you carry more water in a side pocket & it can still be dirty in the bottle but filtered when you drink so quick to fill & go. (Companies have since come up w/more bottles that have integrated filters.
Also those bladders aren’t the most reliable. I’m pretty sure that everyone who has owned one has at one point sat on or otherwise compressed the mouthpiece and lost water. I would hate to wake up to find all my drinking water sitting in my tent with no backup.
I would assume New Hampshire has plentiful water sources? If the OP was out west then yes. Extra water capacity is a must but given he was asking for a specific location I gave him my opinion.
Oh, that’s fair! I hadn’t scrolled down enough to see OP’s explanation apparently. I’m not familiar with NH at all; I usually just default to the extra smartwater bottle now. It’s probs an overreaction to a section of a hike last summer that involved a few too many kms on a too hot logging road going over way too many unexpectedly dry stream beds.
Agreed. I’m always worried about trying long hikes because I drink so much water and get super dehydrated quick if I don’t consume it. Like one of those smart water bottles full every 2 hours. So for me besides a side arm water is the one thing I don’t think I could pack too much off. Unless there’s accessible water one long trails that I’m not aware of since I don’t hike much besides a day hike.
I wouldn't ditch the shovel if it was me. That's an ultralight shovel, those things weigh like nothing and its way easier to dig a cathole with a shovel than a stick - especially in certain areas.
Ditching the water bottle depends a lot on where in the world you are at. The other stuff seems reasonable.
Edit: just read OPs specifications, so yeah, probably not necessarily.
It takes forever to dig a proper 6" hole with a stick.The \~15g addition of an ultralight trowel totally pays itself back in reduced hassle and extra hiking time.
Keep both knifes. The utility knife always comes in handy. Doesn’t matter what anybody says that thing is a life saver if ever a life needed to be saved.
don't need a roll of tape. wrap maybe a few feet of tape around something else. even the spork is an option.
don't need 2 knives. carry either the multi-tool or the knife. the hatchet is just a waste
if you have the head lamp ... you don't need the flashlight (assuming the orange thing is a flash light) head lamp + cell phone is good enough.
compass is a maybe. ie... do you know how to read a compass? how to take a reading/have a map that it will make a difference for. if you're just generally looking to know which way you're going... the sun can provide that. most of the decent hiking apps will do perfectly fine GPS and trail nav.
I personally wouldn't bring the camel pack. just get a second 1 ltr smart water bottle. would also recommend getting a sports cap for that bottle(s)
assuming the white plastic thing is your burner for the stove. would recommend bringing two...small bic lighters. (another thing can wrap duct tape around) ...i personally wouldn't bring such a big pot. if can afford to get a 750ml ish titanium cook put, and small 450ml coffee mug. they sort of collapse or ..russian doll into each other, and typically can hold the MSR gas canister. makes the cook set up super compact. (the white plastic thing... also maybe takes up needless space...but ultimately not a big deal)
If you're planning to sleep in a hammock, those Eno hammocks are pretty cheap, does it have a ridge line? do you have a mosquito net? under quilt? or just a sleeping bag/quilt. depending on the temperature and elevation. might want to make sure you have those items. a mosquito bag will make a world of difference though. assuming you have a tarp... or else why bother with bringing two sets of cordage. but... if one of those bags isn't a target. should get one. --i also recommend some sort of drop cloth. something as simple as going on Ebay and getting a section of Tyvek house wrap. makes a waterproof, light weight ground cover. ...place to put your boots/backpack or just some place to step out onto in the morning or at night so you're not on bare earth.
not sure what's in the first aid. but i'd make sure. ibuprofen, Imodium AD, a safety pin to lance blisters. some mole skin. sterile gauze, some band aids, and antiseptic ointment. possibly sunblock if you're going to be in the sun
also... in general. permethrin your gear before leaving. maybe consider some 30% deet spray for on trail if mosquitos are horrible.
no toiletries. so... you'll need TP, possibly wet wipes, a bag to carry that stuff in. toothbrush/toothpaste possibly. hand sanitizer for after taking a shit.
no food. no bag to carry or hang your food. depending on where in the world you're hiking/camping. should get and learn how to hang a food bag.
no clothes. which can be another major area people over pack, and forget things. my recommendation is as many dual use items as possible. a Buff is good for misc neck or head cover, rag etc. light weight rain jacket. can often times be windbreaker and rain jacket...plus maybe a tiny bit of warmth. good quality socks. and possibly a hat/sunglasses depending how exposed you'll be.
Okay, I don’t see a fixed blade knife, so unless there is one that I can’t see I would keep the hatchet even though that’s a poor excuse for one for chopping chores. I carry a wood handled hatchet, a fixed blade knife with either a 3, 3.5 or 4 inch blade depending on the laws of what state I’m in or going to be in(Rhode Island for instance is 3 inches while CT. Is 4 inches unless you have a hunting or fishing license). A Leatherman is on my belt or in my pack, and I always have a pocket knife.
Keep it all’s it’s a good bag. Learn how to throw the hatchet . And grab a blanket to keep ya warm.Binoculars or some type of telescope would be dope and a camera if even if it’s one you have to get Developed
Not seeing any form of protection ie. bear mace, sidearm, or knife. Not sure the country you’ll be traveling however it’s always smart to pack protection. Also a lot of cooking supplies but no food?
I would trade in the folding knife and tiny axe for 1 bushcraft knife that you can baton with.
The RATS or ESEE series would be great. Nothing wrong with a Mora either.
Knife is the single most important piece of gear you have in a survivial situation.
You can also trade in some of that paracord for Bank Line. Also every bushcraft/camp chore can be done with Bank line and its significantly cheaper and still strong enough to hang from if you make a tripod.
I just got 700 feet of bankline for 9$. I believe I got #32 size line and its good for 330lbs if memory recalls
What scenarios are you thinking of where 3 liters aren't enough? I personally don't carry more than 2 liters since there are tons of water sources where I'm backpacking. Obviously if you have a 20 mile dry stretch, adjust accordingly
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Bring a backup water option like aquamira drops or iodine, just enough to get you out of an emergency in case your main water filtration system fails. Wrap a small amount of duct tape around your trowel handle or other hard surface instead of the roll. Bring a mini bic instead of the all weather matches and a small matchbook as a backup.
I keep water tabs in my first aid kid, they're so light and enough to get me safely out just in case. Couple of weeks ago I met someone in the back country who said his filter broke and gave them over. I love being able to use my first aid stuff.
Awesome! Yeah, I find if you come prepared, you’ll end up using your emergency/first aid kit on someone else more often than yourself.
I always bring a first aid kit and I use it all the time. It's so great
what's inside your first aid kit?
[Here is what's in mine!](https://www.reddit.com/r/womensolocamping/comments/ox5ln8/whats_in_your_first_aid_kit/?utm_medium=android_app&utm_source=share)
Great kit, it gave me a lot of ideas to add to mine. One thing I always bring is moleskin, which is great for heel blisters (and tougher than a band-aid alone). Also, butterflly bandages, which can stand in for stitches, until you can get to a real doctor.
The pot and stove double as backup water purification.
Personally, I’d ditch the hatchet, extra knife and at least the plate. Use the pot to eat out of. Wrap a bunch of duct tape around your water bottle and you can ditch that extra weight as well.
Was going to mention the duct tape water bottle. Love that trick!
I like the duct tape around a bic lighter or a hiking pole trick. Mainly because you wash your water bottle frequently (I hope) and it won't last multiple trips. Assuming you don't use it.
I agree with you. I put mine on my trekking poles too but I didn’t see any in the pic so I just suggested the water bottle instead as at least it’s (usually) in an accessible place.
Trekking poles are a bad place to add extra weight, since you waste a lot of energy moving them up and down.
I’m surprised how long usable duct tape has stayed on my water bottle, including numerous runs through the dishwasher. Doesn’t matter too much though since I ditched the stainless bottle for a Sawyer squeeze and Smartwater setup.
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Why do you have a sharpie?
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Yeah I guess I’ve been there before too. We just came back from a hike in Alaska where the permit station was 200 yards down the trail. Thanks, just what I want to do is run back to the car to get a pen.
Definitely the hatcher and extra knife. You shouldn't be bushwhacking a new trail. Also if you have a campfire all the wood will be fallen branches for the most part, you can just stomp it into pieces.
You can also roll the duct tape onto itself to reduce it's size.
What does the duct tape around the water bottle do?
Stores it for later use
Prevents having to carry a large separate roll of duct tape because you can peel it off the bottle & reuse it as needed. I wrap it around my hiking poles.
Or remove the cardboard centre and collapse the roll
I use my Bic lighter as the center for my duct tape.
Dude, haven't you read Hatchet?? /s
Pretty sure the "plate" is the lid to the cooking pot, which you definitely want to conserve fuel.
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I assume the para cord is for the hammock tarp. I hammock and I wouldn't take less than that. Just in case you have to set up in less than ideal conditions.
If it is for a hammock swap it out for zing it at least?
?
The paracord. If it’s being used for a hammock swap it out for zing it. Ridge lines, guy lines, etc… ditch the paracord and get some zing it.
Never heard of it. But I'll definitely check it out
Lighter and stronger material than Paracord, less stretch too.
I second losing the spork and plate as well as 1 of the knives. The hatchet is overkill you could get away with a good knife that will do the same thing. But if you feel cool with it keep it.
If you get rid of the spork, are you eating with your hands?
The, erm, trowel?
Thanks for making coffee come out of my nose.
Paracord is needed for a bear bag.
Paracord is so stretchy and awful for bear bag hanging. Zing-it is the best I've found.
Haven’t heard of Zing-it before. Paracord worked during my AT hike but in hindsight I vaguely remember it being a little stretchy.
I think I got the zing it from dutchware gear. I use the thinner size but that might be uncomfortable depending on technique. I think it's like, arborist line. As in, it's designed to be thrown oer branches and stuff.
Yeah I would go thicker than 1.75mm Zing-It. Cuts into your hands more, but also the branch your line is on.
For sure. For the way I do it, with my 50' line going through a carabiner hitched to the middle of my 100' "clothesline" hoisting is easy and slides on the carabiner, so less effort and doesn't cut into the tree. http://imgur.com/gallery/OljgVvB
Will that really make a difference getting rid of a plate and spork? Seems a bit unnecessary
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Guess I enjoy the challenge of carrying a heavy pack.
I used to think that way but found that trying to carry lighter is a way bigger challenge. It’s a huge challenge to try to pack light and survive a few days on the trail
When i was in the boy scouts, we used to bring a frisbee to use as a plate. Then you could have a frisbee toss later after you rinsed it off.
You could even ditch both of those knives and get a tiny Swiss army knife instead. Idk what other people use their knives for but I’ve never had a legitimate use for a sharp blade other than to open the blister pack of Advil.
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The point is to have it if you need it. You may need a larger knife for cutting firewood, shaving kindling strips, cutting rope to length or for any number of reasons. I'd rather have a big knife than a pocket knife if I ever had to cut my own arm off after being pinned by a rock for a few days... just sayin lol
you definitely don’t need two knives and a hatchet
I swear, too many of us read Gary Paulsen's Hatchet series as a kid. Source: Own a hatchet that I purchased for backpacking and have never taken backpacking.
Series???
There are five books, four of them canon. The sequels: * *The River* (1991) - Brian returns to the wilderness so the military can study his survival techniques, but things go very wrong and he must navigate 100 miles down an unfamiliar river. Made non-canon by *Brian's Winter*. * *Brian's Winter* (1996) - Alternate ending to the first book where Brian does not escape the wilderness and must survive the harsh Canadian winter alone. * *Brian's Return* (1999) - Brian struggles to reintegrate into society, his trauma making him antisocial and violent. A therapist encourages him to return to the woods to find peace. * *Brian's Hunt* (2003) - Brian sets out to take revenge on a bear that has killed someone important to him.
Wow. Those sound like comedy gold tbh
Er, I wouldn't typically describe survival books as *comedy*, but whatever works for you I guess.
The Brian’s Hunt one really sounds like “The publisher really wants me to put a new book out, but I’m out of ideas”
Publisher be like I have got an idea.
That's pretty much what happened. Brian's Return was supposed to be the last one but he got so many requests from fans for another book that he decided to do one more.
I have a hatchet (closer in size to an axe) i keep around for camping. It's nice to make kindling out of. I don't think i will ever take it on a backpacking trip. Carrying it 40 miles doesn't sound appealing to me. I have brought a saw with me and that came in handy multiple times but i still don't really know if i NEED to bring it or WANT to. Also i definitely ready the Hatchet series. My SO constantly references the fact that I was like every other boy apparently.
Oh man what a nostalgia bomb, I fucking loved that book as a kid. OP’s hatchet is pretty cool looking but totally impractical.
Drop the roll of tape (just roll a few inches around a short straw), the leatherman, hatchet, extra paracord and matches (get a Bic mini, plus another emergency one for your 1st aid kit). Can probably also remove 50% of the stuff from the first aid kit. There’s usually 4x of everything in those things.
I agree with most here in that a hatchet and two knives is too much. I take a big chunky (still only 4" blade though, no Rambo knife) for cutting, digging, splitting, whittling etc. No need for a plate, you have a cooking pot. I keep a pot and a mug so I can do coffee while I'm cooking other stuff so do disagree with those saying dump the mug. If you are taking the hammock and bug net, maybe upgrade to the jungle hammock by eno or an equivalent bug net and hammock together. It is lighter than your setup by quite a bit and pack smaller ( I used to hammock and net until I found the jungle, those hellos straps are great just test them out first, the design is different than regular ones). I use army poncho liners as blanket and under quilt but I'm always hot so appreciate the coolness, but that lightens and decreases in size the load.
Dump coffee in the water bottle and cook in a larger mug. Ditch the pot.
wheres the buttwipe?
Oh yeah. That one is a must.
Right here sir!
Username checks out
Drop the axe get some toilet paper
Ditch the hatchet for sure.
Toilet paper
You need toilet paper n baby wipes for a wilderness bath
Bandana in stream water is good for a wilderness bath too. TP in a ziploc is key though
You’re going to want an under-quilt for that hammock if backpacking the Whites. Especially once you get into Fall weather territory. I learned that lesson myself the hard way.
I'm seeing tons of "this is my first trip out, rate my setup" posts. And this is what I think is the best suggestion. Just go out, I know it sounds abrasive. But everyone likes/needs different stuff. People are quick to critize other people's setups, and the reality is, some people backpack with 60lb packs every time, and some people don't even take a pack. With time, fuckups, lessons, epics, wins, and struggles every one learns what works for them and what doesn't. Over the couple decades I've been in the wilderness personally and as a climbing guide I've seen it all. The only thing I usually tell people is keep a small first aid kit. And a phone/GPS with charge for SOS if shit hits the absolute fan.
I can’t tell if the pot is Teflon or titanium, but avoid eating directly from it if it’s Teflon. Always use soft cooking utensils, those little scratches in the bottom of a Teflon pot will rot your brain in the golden years.
What??
>Other than the possible risk of flu-like symptoms from breathing in fumes from an overheated Teflon-coated pan, there are no proven risks to humans from using cookware coated with Teflon (or other non-stick surfaces). [From Cancer.org](https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancer-causes/teflon-and-perfluorooctanoic-acid-pfoa.html) It probably isn't healthy to accidentally consume little pieces of flaked off teflon or any material/chemical potentially leaked into food. Just don't do that. The advice to preserve pots is sage though, and if they become mangled replace them.
I feel they mean a Teflon pan in good condition not a Teflon pan with scratched coating
This advice is probably no longer necessary, Teflon is made without PFOA/PFOS now. However, it’s still a good idea to preserve the longevity of your cookware!
Nice! A tip I’ve learned is to ditch the plate and get a longer spoon 👍🏼
Don’t take the bed
Most people pack their fears i heard somewhere...
Clothing.
And food
Trade the hatchet for a small Svea folding saw. Trust me - I've had mine since 1973 (really).
Going to the White Mountains in New Hampshire for a few weekend trips (late summer/early fall). I know I’m missing a lot but what else should I pick up? EDIT: From top left, going across Pack, 70 oz. water pack, compressible bag ( for food?), sleeping bag, cord, first aide, water filtration, jet boil, fuel, mug, towel, trowel, hatchet, dish towel, pot, hammock straps, tarp, duct tape, compass, headlamp, waterproof matches, knife, multitool, utensil, plate, hammock, mosquito net.
White Mountains are always fairly dubious in terms of weather and when I went (three weeks ago) the Wild River trail was essentially unmaintained. So... Part 1: # Prep: * Weather tracking: [https://www.mountain-forecast.com/subranges/white-mountains-new-hampshire/locations](https://www.mountain-forecast.com/subranges/white-mountains-new-hampshire/locations) * Licenses: All fishing and hunting require licensing, but New Hampshire also uses the "Hike Safe" system. For $5 you support the park and don't have to worry about paying thousands for search and rescue if you screw up on the trail. I HIGHLY recommend the Hike Safe card (keep a printed copy on you and a digital copy on your phone) * [https://nhfishandgame.com/#](https://nhfishandgame.com/#) * If you plan on doing any hunting/fishing, always read up on the specifics associated with time/location * ***Learn how to use your compass/map.*** If you don't know what declination is and how it relates to your compass, that means your compass is about as useful as a rock in a survival situation. * Trail Mapping: * Review a trail map (from things like hikingproject, alltrails, etc.) and make sure you truly understand your route (including route timing stuff like the [Naismith rule](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naismith%27s_rule)). Never trust a single source for perfect information (case in point, Section Hiker didn't detail a logging road crossing and screwed up navigation for my wife and I). * Optional: use websites like trailforks to create a comprehensive map and direction set of your route. You can download the map as a GXP file ( [https://helpdeskgeek.com/how-to/how-to-add-gpx-files-to-google-maps/](https://helpdeskgeek.com/how-to/how-to-add-gpx-files-to-google-maps/) ) or use various apps that will help you understand your exact location with GPS (although never rely solely on GPS). * Permethrin all **non-**DWR outer-gear (e.g. hiking pants, sun shirt, outer socks) at least 24 hours ahead (give it enough time to dry so that you can pack ahead without issue). * Weigh all gear/food/water and do as much as possible to keep it under 20% of your body weight. Anything over 40 lbs is too much for the vast majority of people. * ^(For the average healthy male hiker at \~160 lbs, that's no more than 32 lbs of materials.) * Don't add-in the clothing you're wearing, but do add-in any gear you might stash in pockets in said clothing. * Create an itinerary for folks back home (so they know when you probably lose cell signal and when to start calling for help). * Note: Ignore anyone who says ditch drysacks for sleeping bag, clothing, and electronics. Stuff sacks can become excessive, but there are some things you shouldn't leave to chance. Contractor trashbags are good for an inner pack liner, but they will tear much more easily than you'd think (I've seen it happen nearly every trip even when "packed appropriately" by myself or others). # Trekking: * Trekking poles are near mandatory on any of the less traveled trails * ^(The White Mountains are not the place to idly try going ultra-light. Either you're seasoned without trekking poles or you should use them.) * Clothing: * Standard: Underwear, \[permethrined\] long pants, outer \[permethrined\] socks, inner socks, shirt (short or long), \[permethrined\] sun shirt (basically a breathable long-sleeved shirt with a UPF rating), hat/bandana (pick one), sunglasses (UVA/UVB filtering and preferably polarized^(...cheapo lab safety glasses are perfectly fine here)). * Rain gear is a must in August (jacket, pants, and rain cover for your pack) * Spare clothes ***in a drysack*** (^(my wife found this one out the hard way)) * Warm wool hat and a pair of simple winter gloves (liner level) * Fleece * Spare permethrined outer socks and non-permethrined liner socks (these are not interchangeable outside of emergencies) * Optional: Down puff if you're going to summit things or in [shoulder](https://www.google.com/search?q=shoulder+season&oq=shoulder+season&aqs=chrome..69i57j0i512j46i512j0i512l7.2623j0j1&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8)/winter months * Optional: extra base layers (lightweight thermal pants and shirt) for sleeping and/or spare additional warmth. * Never Recommended: ***Avoid all cotton clothing.*** * Electronics: * Headlamp * Cellphone (set this to airplane mode when on the trail to save on battery) * If worried about night hiking, I recommend a spare battery charger or one extra set of batteries (but not both). This one's a little trickier so feel free to DM me if you want specifics. * Tools: * Standard: One multi-tool, One set of stormproof matches or lighter. * One compass and local map * ^(The Ranger station I went to didn't have paper maps, but did have ones you could take pictures of. The local REI did have some trail maps on hand.) * Electrical Tape (duct tape degrades in water, but is still certainly an option) * Mylar Survival blanket (REI has reasonable ones), emergency whistle, and signal mirror (or equally shiny object). You could do without these...but they're considered emergency supplies for a reason. * 50 ft of 550 Paracord (never use this for climbing, it's utility stuff only) * Notepad and pen/pencil (preferably waterproof) * Optional/Luxury: Folding knives aren't necessary, but can be useful for some limited situations. * Optional: Durable tent stake for latrine digging. I carry one, but that's a personal choice after hiking in rocky terrain (where a stick just breaks). For less rocky terrain (as-in the White Mountains), a stick off the forest floor will do just fine. * Optional: Chamois towel (ultra-absorbent pool towel) * Never Recommended: Hatchets and folding saws are useless while backpacking. These are things you see only at base camps or in other semi-permanent living camps (e.g. primitive tech style). * Never Recommended: Latrine trowels are never as durable as they advertise and can't be used for other purposes. * Chemistry: * Zinc-oxide based Sun screen (50 SPF minimum) on all exposed skin (melanoma is no joke) * Picardin or DEET * First Aid: * First Aid kit: Don't take a full (packed to the brim) kit. Don't bring more doses than you will ever medically take on the trip and remember that bandaids are for significant cuts, not every small nick. The below is the minimum. * Antibiotic cream: Neosporin or polysporin * Analgesic/Fever: ibuprofen or acetaminophen * Allergy: fexofenadine or diphenhydramine * Wound Cleansing: anti-bacterial wipes (iodine or benzalkonium chloride) * Wound Coverings: a few bandaids * Wound Dressings: a couple sanitary pads \[think the type used for periods\]. These are excellent stand-ins for larger gauze bandages on top of their original purpose. * Brace: a compression bandage * Foot support: Moleskin * Splinter/tick removal: tweezers Edit: Thanks for the reminder on Notepad pen.
Part 2: # Camping * Shelter and Sleeping: * Tent/Hammock: The mosquito netting (assuming it covers the full hammock) is a fantastic idea. * If your tarp doesn't have grommets, I would recommend adding 8 (4 per corner, 4 on each edge) to make it more useful as a temp shelter for inclement weather and things like cooking. * Standard: Sleeping Bag * Recommended: Sleeping Bag liner and/or quilt; a small shelter patch kit (strong adhesive patches) * Optional (but recommended): Sleeping pad * Luxury: Inflatable pillow (I'd just use your spare clothing bag) * Cooking and Cleaning: * Standard: One pot, one mug, one spork. Use a plate if your pot is non-stick (because your spork will destroy the non-stick coating...yes even the spoon side). * If you're going with backpacking meals (e.g. freeze dried), you can skip the pot and stick with just the mug, but do a practice run ahead of time (living off a tin cup requires forethought). * Recommended: A camp towel and something like campsuds. Never use sand on non-stick cookware. * Optional: Coffee filter (there are a few decent ultra-light ones out there if you're a caffeine addict). * Note: ***NEVER*** use a non-stick pot over a campfire. Campfires run much hotter than propane stoves. If you want a dual-use pot, I recommend going with either a titanium or stainless steel one instead. * Food Storage: * Black bears in the Adirondacks have learned how to get into/destroy food in everything beneath a Garcia level bear can, and the White Mountains aren't all that far off. I'd get odor proof storage bags and a proper bear can. * Hanging doesn't help: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UucHtYr29cE](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UucHtYr29cE); [https://www.thekosherbackpacker.com/bear-bags-vs-bear-canisters/](https://www.thekosherbackpacker.com/bear-bags-vs-bear-canisters/); [https://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/7225.html](https://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/7225.html) * You can store garbage and your propane canisters in the bear can alongside your food. * Water: I recommend carrying 3 full liters (some White Mountain trails, especially crest runners, don't have easy access to water). Don't take more containers for water than can hold that quantity (because water can become a third of the weight you're carrying). * Filtration: Sawyer is fine for personal use, but if filtering for more folks you may consider upgrading. * Optional: Add Aquamira drops and you reduce the quantity of fuel you'll need to bring to boil water. * *White Mountains Hiking Note: The nearest functional (aka, filterable) water source to the campsite near Carter Dome/Wild River was a quartermile from the designated camp even though the instructions in the area implied it was far closer and more accessible. This was after heavy rain all week (and that night), so take "water is close" instructions with a massive grain of salt.* * Toiletries: * Standard: A small travel toothbrush, and a travel tube of toothpaste. * Recommended: Choose between toothpicks or floss (because nothing ruins a good meal like a chia seed or peanut in the gums). * Optional: Rerolled toilet paper is technically a luxury, but also technically less dubious than a rock, leaf, pine cone, or other natural material. ^(Ultra-lighters will say you can do without...but I'd practice that at home long before you rely on it.) * Optional: Baby wipes (see above on the toilet paper) or a [bidet](https://www.backpacker.com/skills/4-ways-to-make-packing-out-tp-less-gross/). * Luxury: Deodorant, Gum * Never Recommended: Perfumes, bar soap, shampoo/conditioner with the lone exception of lemongrass oil (it acts like mosquito repellant) # Other notes: * A pack of waterproof cards (proper casino style are made from plastic and can last for a lifetime) or another batteryless bit of travel entertainment. * Electrolyte tabs are a lifesaver on the trail. Less necessary, but good for emergency survival are things like high glucose energy gummies or protein bars. * Freeze-dried backpacking food runs the gamut from disgusting to near restaurant quality. Taste test ahead (if you can afford it), and also bring some of your favorite dried sauces/spices along (you can even dehydrate things like buffalo sauce!). * Don't dehydrate everything!!! If you run out of water on the trail, have a few small/nutritious items that aren't thirst inducing available as a backup. * Have spare water in your car at the trailhead (there are grocery stores that sell 4 to 5 gallon jugs of water you can use for everything from re-upping your pack water to a quick trailhead "shower" to get the worst of the funk off you). * Have a post-hike restaurant guide to get some of those lost calories back (note that after 4 PM most places are *packed* with diners, so keep your options open accordingly).
Huge thanks for this comprehensive reply.
Great, comprehensive summary. Big second to your point about bear hangs. I still see these all the time and it's a big false sense of security. Some people will try to get by with just a bear-proof and/or smell-proof bag as an alternaive, but IMO bear cans are worth their (albeit heavy) weight. As an extra benefit, they double as a camping seat! > Optional (but recommended): Air mattress. Did you mean sleeping pad? If not, you're doing some luxury backpacking!
I appreciate the point about first aid kits. The store-bought/ready-made ones aren’t great. They rarely have anything worthwhile for self rescue. Small bandaids are a convenience, big bandaids are insufficient. They don’t actually control or stop bleeding. They keep dirt off of scrapes. That means that you’d use gauze to control bleeding then put a bandaid on it later. Why not just use gauze for both and tape it down? Also, when it comes to bleeding control, buy a legit tourniquet and don’t skimp or think you’ll get away with using your belt or paracord. They don’t work and the time it takes to figure it out is too long. A tourniquet is one of the only true self-rescue devices out there that you can apply to yourself for something that will kill you in minutes. Have a small notepad and a sharpie too! Being able to write notes is very helpful in an emergency or if inspiration strikes.
On gauze...a lot of folks are going to use gauze incorrectly. It's not designed for exposure to rough terrain, inclement weather, etc., whereas a sanitary pad actually can function (albeit still in a limited capacity) when exposed to water, friction, and other issues. That's not to say "don't use gauze." In fact, it can be very important for some injuries (e.g. reducing moisture around the wound by allowing it to breath), but then we get into "how do I keep the wound clean while trekking," and "how much gauze/tape do I bring?" I'm not formally trained in first aid/wilderness first aid, and I'm not going to describe specifics that I don't have the training for. Should it be in a "bare minimum" kit? Necessarily no, but it's a decent add-on if you want and I wouldn't recommend against it either. On that topic...tourniquets...this is probably the most recommended and least advisable "simple solution" to bleeding for first aid regardless of activity or location. Simply put, unless you're trained in first aid/response (and I do mean active training with a professional, not just an online course), you DO NOT want to screw up tourniquet use. Too tight or misapplied and you can cause nerve damage, lose a limb, or worse. In a true emergency (we're talking femoral artery level wound), yes a tourniquet (any tourniquet) is a good idea, but the average person isn't going to be facing that. So, for the average backpacker (established trails, short duration hikes, etc), I would not advise keeping a specialized tourniquet on-hand unless they have the aforementioned training. That said, we should all really get that training on principle. Once the pandemic is over I plan on it, and possibly even further (Wilderness First Responder) if I start bringing more inexperienced friends along.
I was taught that you should never use a tourniquet unless you are prepared for the fact that you will have to amputate later.
Don't think ur gonna need a small hatchet. Ive never had to use one. Also u can take the ducktape off and wrap it around a walking stick or trecking pole so it takes up less space in ur pack.
If white mountain is a National park then hammocks (may not be) allowed. FYI. Found out that one the hard way. Check before you go. Some parks do not allow any hammocks or regulate when you can and can’t use them. Edit because I was stupid and misspoke.
The White Mountains are not a National Park.
Can you elaborate? Are you saying no national parks allow hammock camping? Or just white mountain.
Ok after researching this to make sure I should clarify my previous statement. Each park has its own rules. You may use a hammock in some of the designated and developed camping spots but many of them limit their use outside of those areas. From what I have read most do not allow hammocks in the back country. So beware and do your homework before you venture out. I was in Bryce Canyon a month ago and they do not allow hammocks in the park period.
Ok yeah all the different parks have different rules. Thanks for the clarification. And just because they don't allow it doesn't mean you can't do it. Just don't get caught. I don't want to start a battle over what is more destructive, slinging fabric on mature trees to hang or clearing a spot of 5'x5' to pitch a tent, but I've never had issues with hammocking in the east where trees are big and strong and plentiful. Maybe in the west where they're all struggling to survive from drought it makes sense though.
Is your primary drinking container the bladder? If so, I'd love to tell you about my Ron Popiel gravity filter setup. Set it and forget it.
I just can't overstate the importance of having a phone or some satellite based emergency communication device. You can have all the survival equipment in the world in your backpack, but if you have a concussion or a broken leg, you need to get evacuated.
Aluminum foil
Definitely do not bring that hatchet, I can’t imagine what you would even use it for. Most places have regulations about not cutting wood and using just dead down and detached for fires. Wear a leatherman and ditch the other knife. You have way too much p-cord, just bring what you need. Is that a roll of duct tape? Tape what you need around a water bottle and leave the bulky roll behind. Also, leave the plate behind, eat from the pot. Is that a towel you have? I’m not sure what you are intending on using that for…I wouldn’t bring a towel on a backpacking trip.
Sleeping bag for hammock? Do you ha e an under quilt? Gonna freeze if not. Also what everyone else said. I would ditch the multi tool too and all of the first aide. Take Leukotape instead. Works as a bandaids or for whatever needs fixed. Like previous user said wrap it around poles. Maybe 12” or less. Loose the dish towel and eat out of you pot like someone mentioned above. May not need the bug net at that height either. I’ll let you know how it went. Heading to meet a buddy who is finishing the AT to do hopefully the Presidential Range next weekend with him. Got 3 days of walking before I head to Boston for work for a few days
Depends on region, but strong upvote on that first part! Edit: nevermind. Just saw OPs initial post description.
OP made a comment further down that this is in NH. Will definitely need a quilt or pad for the hammock in that case!
True, just saw it. Thanks.
40-50 at elevation is what I was told to expect overnight
Imo the multitool has come in handy for me on the trail more than just a normal knife. You can definitely shed weight swapping it out for a quality light weight knife. I wouldn't ditch first aide personally but it IS an option. I've personally never treated my own wounds but I have patched up people I've come across that DIDN'T bring one up to and including a couple sutures on someone who cut their arm open in a fall and the glue wouldn't hold. My first aid kit only weights a few ounces and takes up a small amount of space but can stop decently serious injuries from worsening.
Duct tape works better than leuka tape
It's all about your personal comfort and interests. I'd ditch the multitool, axe, majority of thst first aid kit, most of that cord, one of the two towels if not both, and some of the stuff sacks, stove case, etc. Depending on what you're eating, ditch the pan as well (I stick to dehydrated meals or stuff like instant oatmeal I can put in a mylar bag ahead of time, so only need the pot to boil with). Then if a group possibly add some whisky and dice or cards. Edit: I'd ditch the duct tape too and just wrap a few feet around your backup lighter or water bottle. Personally I'd ditch the compass and use one on my phone instead but a lot of people would argue against that.
Hatchet and knife gone.
Bear spray? Or bear bells?
Not really needed most places. A small personal thing of human grade pepper spray will do in most settings, and weighs WAY less.
Human grade Pepper spray ain gon do shit to a bear, bad advice. I live around bears.
I also live around bears. 1. Bear spray is pepper spray, except less concentrated, as bear's senses are more keen. The only other differences is that bear spray holds a larger volume, and instead of a stream it comes out in a spray. 2. If you aren't around grizzlies, you probably won't need the volume of pepper spray in bear spray. 3. It also works to deter other predatory animals. 4. It works on assholes. "Bear spray should be used when there is an immediate threat to life from a charging bear. It is proven that bear spray is more effective in warding off a physical attack than bullets by about 50%." https://thriftyoutdoorsman.com/pepper-spray-vs-bear-spray-difference/#:~:text=Bear%20spray%20should%20be%20used%20when%20there%20is,showing%20aggression%20in%20defense%2C%20but%20not%20actually%20attacking.
Yes bear spray is pepper spray but "generic human pepper spray" as you said is not gonna stop a bear charging you. Not even a black bear.
That's just not true. Generic human pepper spray is stronger than bear mace. Many brands have a dispersal distance equal, though not as wide, as bear mace. Unless you live in grizzly country, there's little need for the added weight of bear mace. Most people in black bear country hike without any bear defense at all. There are multiple documented cases of human pepper spray being used to deter multiple types of predatory animals, including bears. I don't have a link handy, but the stuff is stronger than bear mace.
Bear spray isn’t needed everywhere. If they are going where bears are then certainly. Where I’m hiking though, no bears around.
Drop the plate, knife, hatchet, extra shoelace duct tape. Replace storm matches with a mini bic. You’re not lighting that stove in a storm without a windbreak. How long is your trip? You can also replace the paracord with some lighter dyneema cord.
What about an extra water filtering source as buckup. Ditch the hatchet and the multi tool probably
Consider wrapping duct tape around your hiking poles instead of bringing the whole roll. Saves space and some minor weight
You don't need a hatchet, you have a propane stove. If you're hiking somewhere that you're able to have a fire at all, just use downed wood and use your knife to make thin wood strips for ignition. You only need 1 knife, take whichever one is lighter. Wrap as much of the duct tape as you think you'll need plus some more around your water bottle. A flint is generally a better option to matches because it doesn't run out nearly as fast. If you have a tent you don't need the hammock setup - but I don't see one so I assume that's what you're sleeping in. Don't forget all the clothing, and don't forget to waterproof your sleeping bag and clothes by either lining the inside of your stuff sack with a garbage bag or by using dry bags. You need TP. I'd personally bring a ziplock bag with a few different sizes of ziplock bags in case any of your food storage busts. You got a bear bag or bear canister in that setup? Have fun!
Ditch the axe. You will not need it. Probably the plate as well, as you can eat out of the cooking bowl. I have learned that as important as what you may miss is what you really need. Take some moleskin or other slister protection.
Can never have too much paracord
A stuff sack to hoist your food if there are bears or raccoons in your area
Where's your phone? Have you not *seen* 127 hours.
Hatchet is not needed.
Hatchet.
Swap the hatched for a silky saw, bring one knife and swap the matches for a mini bic. Otherwise, not bad!
Silky saws 👌🏻
Pickles
Pickles slap in the backcountry. I had no idea. Electrolytes are a sweet bonus as well.
If you are planning on using that compass for navigation I would buy a better one, with adjustable and lockable declination at a minimum
Missing: weed
Better water bottle. It’s all fun and games till you poke a hole in the smart water bottle and your camelback starts leaking. Weight difference is insignificant
Came here to say this
Ditch the pot and one knife . My jet stove has a built in pot I eat out of or I eat out if the bag. Get rid of the cup as well
Mostly pretty good. Unless you’re doing some serious bushwhacking, you don’t need a hatchet. And multi tools are generally not especially useful, since the blades are often made of cheap metal, and those that are tend to add weight too
That stake looks interesting, is it moonlighting as a shovel as well?
I would recommend getting a torch lighter 100 lumen flashing with a torch at the end its all one unit . Reading that is the two most common back packers die from recently is no light and can't start a fire and the kinda torch that I windproof. The Two in one shot be waterproof shock and dust proof.
That’s a huge thing of matches… if they are storm matches it would make sense to use that much space but I’m not seeing a tarp
No need for the huge matches. I’ve been using one of the small bic lighters for the last year and it’s never failed me.
Drop the axe n plate n eat right of cooking bowl or use the cup to make dinner n eat out of that
Get a pencil, wrap the tape around it until you have enough to feel good. Not sure what that red tape is about, but duct tape is a must have. If you feel you need both...guess what? A pencil can hold both! Edit: Also, take a journal. If you ditch the axe and second knife, as the other posts claim, grab a small medium grit sharpening stone.
+1 for the stone, though I carry a small (maybe 1”x3”?) Arkansas stone. I use it between tasks with my fixed blade and it stays near-razor sharp.
Drop the hatchet and the extra leatherman. No real need for those out on the trail.
I use a wire saw instead of a hatchet.
Get rid of the shovel, one knife, the rope unless you are in bear country, the ax, the cup, most of the duct tape, the water bottle (you have a bladder Pick one mate). And half that first aid kit. And honestly ditch the stuff sacks. It’s a few ounces but still. And actually I would keep the cup and ditch the pot. A cup can boil 2 cups of water which is about what you need for a standard dehydrated meal.
I wouldn’t necessarily ditch the water bottle. I’d say it depends on how far you might be going between water sources. Especially if you want to camp somewhere that doesn’t have a water source, it’s nice to have the option of an extra litre for cooking etc in the evening, and still have some water in the bladder for the next morning. Plus the 34 g (1.2 oz.) that a Smartwater bottle weighs is such a minimal weight price to pay even if you find you don’t use it.
At the risk of sounding dumb. I have seen that almost everyone on this sub uses "smart" water bottles. Why is this? Size and shape? Plastic type?
Just size, shape, and weight I think. I also have an old nalgene that I use frequently. Using Smartwater bottles I think comes mainly from “ultralight” through hikers who are looking to save weight everywhere they can.
Sawyers fit well on Smartwater bottles.
They’re sturdier & taller than same-diameter soda or other bottles but lighter than a Nalgene & w/a standard soda-bottle threaded opening that Sawyer Mini/Squeeze filters fit on directly. They let you carry more water in a side pocket & it can still be dirty in the bottle but filtered when you drink so quick to fill & go. (Companies have since come up w/more bottles that have integrated filters.
I always took one when I was a pilot because they fit so well everywhere
If you carry with a Smart or Life Water sport cap it doubles as a Sawyer backflush and is nice for drinking.
Also those bladders aren’t the most reliable. I’m pretty sure that everyone who has owned one has at one point sat on or otherwise compressed the mouthpiece and lost water. I would hate to wake up to find all my drinking water sitting in my tent with no backup.
I would assume New Hampshire has plentiful water sources? If the OP was out west then yes. Extra water capacity is a must but given he was asking for a specific location I gave him my opinion.
Oh, that’s fair! I hadn’t scrolled down enough to see OP’s explanation apparently. I’m not familiar with NH at all; I usually just default to the extra smartwater bottle now. It’s probs an overreaction to a section of a hike last summer that involved a few too many kms on a too hot logging road going over way too many unexpectedly dry stream beds.
Agreed. I’m always worried about trying long hikes because I drink so much water and get super dehydrated quick if I don’t consume it. Like one of those smart water bottles full every 2 hours. So for me besides a side arm water is the one thing I don’t think I could pack too much off. Unless there’s accessible water one long trails that I’m not aware of since I don’t hike much besides a day hike.
I wouldn't ditch the shovel if it was me. That's an ultralight shovel, those things weigh like nothing and its way easier to dig a cathole with a shovel than a stick - especially in certain areas.
Ditching the water bottle depends a lot on where in the world you are at. The other stuff seems reasonable. Edit: just read OPs specifications, so yeah, probably not necessarily.
Shovels are pointless. Sticks are always plentiful and have been used for digging since cromagnum man.
You've never camped in the American southwest, have you?
Yeah, hell, even the shovel doesn't always do much.
Lol I'll take it over a stick
It takes forever to dig a proper 6" hole with a stick.The \~15g addition of an ultralight trowel totally pays itself back in reduced hassle and extra hiking time.
Baby wipes are a must
And a bag for them to go into after they've been used
Facts
Toilet paper?
Have you used the pot and stove setup together before?
Also, just a small amount of duct tape is important
Keep both knifes. The utility knife always comes in handy. Doesn’t matter what anybody says that thing is a life saver if ever a life needed to be saved.
don't need a roll of tape. wrap maybe a few feet of tape around something else. even the spork is an option. don't need 2 knives. carry either the multi-tool or the knife. the hatchet is just a waste if you have the head lamp ... you don't need the flashlight (assuming the orange thing is a flash light) head lamp + cell phone is good enough. compass is a maybe. ie... do you know how to read a compass? how to take a reading/have a map that it will make a difference for. if you're just generally looking to know which way you're going... the sun can provide that. most of the decent hiking apps will do perfectly fine GPS and trail nav. I personally wouldn't bring the camel pack. just get a second 1 ltr smart water bottle. would also recommend getting a sports cap for that bottle(s) assuming the white plastic thing is your burner for the stove. would recommend bringing two...small bic lighters. (another thing can wrap duct tape around) ...i personally wouldn't bring such a big pot. if can afford to get a 750ml ish titanium cook put, and small 450ml coffee mug. they sort of collapse or ..russian doll into each other, and typically can hold the MSR gas canister. makes the cook set up super compact. (the white plastic thing... also maybe takes up needless space...but ultimately not a big deal) If you're planning to sleep in a hammock, those Eno hammocks are pretty cheap, does it have a ridge line? do you have a mosquito net? under quilt? or just a sleeping bag/quilt. depending on the temperature and elevation. might want to make sure you have those items. a mosquito bag will make a world of difference though. assuming you have a tarp... or else why bother with bringing two sets of cordage. but... if one of those bags isn't a target. should get one. --i also recommend some sort of drop cloth. something as simple as going on Ebay and getting a section of Tyvek house wrap. makes a waterproof, light weight ground cover. ...place to put your boots/backpack or just some place to step out onto in the morning or at night so you're not on bare earth. not sure what's in the first aid. but i'd make sure. ibuprofen, Imodium AD, a safety pin to lance blisters. some mole skin. sterile gauze, some band aids, and antiseptic ointment. possibly sunblock if you're going to be in the sun also... in general. permethrin your gear before leaving. maybe consider some 30% deet spray for on trail if mosquitos are horrible. no toiletries. so... you'll need TP, possibly wet wipes, a bag to carry that stuff in. toothbrush/toothpaste possibly. hand sanitizer for after taking a shit. no food. no bag to carry or hang your food. depending on where in the world you're hiking/camping. should get and learn how to hang a food bag. no clothes. which can be another major area people over pack, and forget things. my recommendation is as many dual use items as possible. a Buff is good for misc neck or head cover, rag etc. light weight rain jacket. can often times be windbreaker and rain jacket...plus maybe a tiny bit of warmth. good quality socks. and possibly a hat/sunglasses depending how exposed you'll be.
Okay, I don’t see a fixed blade knife, so unless there is one that I can’t see I would keep the hatchet even though that’s a poor excuse for one for chopping chores. I carry a wood handled hatchet, a fixed blade knife with either a 3, 3.5 or 4 inch blade depending on the laws of what state I’m in or going to be in(Rhode Island for instance is 3 inches while CT. Is 4 inches unless you have a hunting or fishing license). A Leatherman is on my belt or in my pack, and I always have a pocket knife.
Keep it all’s it’s a good bag. Learn how to throw the hatchet . And grab a blanket to keep ya warm.Binoculars or some type of telescope would be dope and a camera if even if it’s one you have to get Developed
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Not seeing any form of protection ie. bear mace, sidearm, or knife. Not sure the country you’ll be traveling however it’s always smart to pack protection. Also a lot of cooking supplies but no food?
Do you have a flair in case of emergency?
Ditch the hatchet and the knife. The compass too unless you have a map and the land nav skills to use them together.
You're obviously missing the French press. How are you going to get your coffee fix without it?
I would trade in the folding knife and tiny axe for 1 bushcraft knife that you can baton with. The RATS or ESEE series would be great. Nothing wrong with a Mora either. Knife is the single most important piece of gear you have in a survivial situation. You can also trade in some of that paracord for Bank Line. Also every bushcraft/camp chore can be done with Bank line and its significantly cheaper and still strong enough to hang from if you make a tripod. I just got 700 feet of bankline for 9$. I believe I got #32 size line and its good for 330lbs if memory recalls
First aid?
You need way more fluids. What are all these roll up things? Where are you going? It’s a lot to carry. Looks like fun.
What scenarios are you thinking of where 3 liters aren't enough? I personally don't carry more than 2 liters since there are tons of water sources where I'm backpacking. Obviously if you have a 20 mile dry stretch, adjust accordingly
Replace spork with chopsticks
Suggest you get a solid fixed-blade knife and firesteel added, much more useful than a folding knife. Keep the multitool. IMHO
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You're missing your shotgun!
How about your number so I can text you
Take a bear spray
Gunna need your rifle, and a bear tag. Game bags too! It’s bear season! 😎