I’ve been backpacking solo for over 5 years now and while I wouldn’t consider myself an expert, I have certainly learned a few things along the way and my backpacking checklist has changed as a reflection of the things I’ve learned. I’m always striving to lighten my pack while still having everything I need to be comfortable on trail. It’s pretty amazing how little you really need to survive alone in the wilderness! I’m sure my checklist will continue to evolve as I go on more adventures and have new experiences, but for now, here is the lineup of gear that has been working for me!
Keep in mind, I live in San Diego which means I’m never really backpacking in winter/snow conditions so my setup is most appropriate for 3 season camping even though this setup will keep you warm down to 15 degree temperatures!
My base weight (how much your gear weighs minus food, fuel, and water) for this gear list comes out to around 14 lbs.
Ultralight Backpacking: Base weight under 10 lbs (this is very minimal and expensive to achieve)
Lightweight Backpacking: Base weight under 20 lbs (this is more realistic especially for newer backpackers)
For a full breakdown of the weight of each item, check out my gear list on LighterPack .
Note: Most of the links included in this post are affiliate links. Whether you’re shopping for gear, or just out of curiosity, your clicks help to support me and it’s much appreciated!
Here is my complete solo backpacking checklist:
BIG THREE
- Backpack: ULA Circuit (68L)
- Tent: North Face Storm Break 1p
- Sleeping Bag: Sea to Summit Spark Ultralight 5 degree
SLEEP SYSTEM
- Sleeping Pad(s):
- Sea to Summit Ether XT Lite inflatable pad
- Nemo Switchback foam pad
- Sleeping Bag Liner: Sea to Summit Thermolite Reactor Extreme
- Inflatable Pillow: Sea to Summit Aeros Premium Pillow
- Stuff Sack w/ sleep clothes:
- Baselayer Top: Smartwool Thermal Merino Base Layer
- Baselayer Bottom: Smartwool Classic Merino Base Layer Bottoms
- Wool Socks: Smartwool Classic Hike Full Cushion Crew Socks
- Knit Hat (made by me!)
EXTRA CLOTHES
- Rain Cover: Frogg Togg Rain Poncho
- Rain Pants: REI Trailmade Rain Pants
- Puffy Jacket: REI 650 Down Jacket
- Trail Runners: Altra Running Lone Peak
- Trekking Poles: Trail Buddy Hiking Poles
CAMP KITCHEN
- Stove: Jetboil Stash + fuel
- Bear Canister: BearVault 450, 500 (optional)
- Utensil: SnowPeak Titanium long Spork
- Water Filter: Katadyn BeFree 1L + AquaMira Water treatment (backup)
- Extra Water Bladder: Hydrapak 2L
ELECTRONICS
- Iphone and Airpods
- Satellite Device: Garmin inReach mini
- Charger: Anker 2000 Power Bank w/ charging cables
- Headlamp: Black Diamond Cosmo 350 Headlamp
- Disposable Camera
SELF CARE
My first aid and toiletry pouches are both from Space Bear Bags
- Toiletry Kit:
- Toothbrush and Toothpaste tabs
- Trowel: The Deuce 2.0
- Bidet: Culo Clean
- Hand sanitizer
- Alcala body wipes
- sunscreen
- chapstick w/ SPF
- First Aid Kit:
- Bandaids
- tweezer
- advil/tylenol in a 1oz Nalgene
- nail clippers
- safety pin
- electrolytes (Liquid IV)
Now we’re all packed and ready to hit the trails!
Of course there may be some luxury items that you’ll want to carry for personal reasons, things like: a notebook, an e-reader, an extra change of clothes, a fishing pole, etc.
Do you have a luxury item that always comes with you on your backpacking trips?
For me it’s a disposable camera and a notebook!
If you have any questions about any of these items leave a comment below!
Happy Trails!
Bee's Wild Life 
What water bottle do you use for your Culo Clean? I have one and brought it camping but didn’t use it cause I didn’t bring an extra bottle. I’ve not backpacked San Jacinto yet. I’ve done Santa Paula a bunch and love that. Great list!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hey Brian! Thanks for the comment! The Culo Clean works great on a smart water bottle or any similar plastic water bottle. I’ll usually use it on my “dirty” bottle, the one I use to filter water. You’ll want a bottle that is flexible so you can squeeze it!
LikeLike