Carry only what works
Overnight Hike Packing List
Stay warm, dry and safe without carrying unnecessary bulk.
Overnight hike:
You carry your own equipment for the planned distance and terrain. Choose compact, multi-use gear and share tents, cooking equipment and other group items exactly as arranged.
Pack and waterproofing
- Correctly fitted hiking pack with supportive hip belt
- Waterproof pack liner
- Dry bags or reusable zip bags for sleeping gear and clothing
- Pack cover only as an extra layer—not a substitute for a liner
Sleep system and shelter
- Compact hooded sleeping bag rated for the forecast
- Insulated lightweight sleeping mat
- Shared tent or shelter component as allocated
- Dry base layer and socks reserved for sleeping
- Small inflatable pillow or clothing-filled stuff sack if wanted
Clothing: use layers
- Quick-drying base layer
- Fleece or wool mid-layer
- Light insulated layer for expected cold
- Waterproof and windproof jacket with hood
- Hiking trousers or shorts suited to conditions
- Hiking socks plus one dry spare pair
- Sun hat and warm beanie
- Broken-in hiking shoes or boots
Why layers matter:
Several light layers trap warmth and can be added or removed as weather and activity change. Start a little cool, add insulation when stopped, and keep a waterproof shell accessible. Avoid relying on cotton in cold or wet conditions because it dries slowly and loses warmth when wet.
Water, food and navigation
- Water capacity specified by the Leader
- Meals and high-energy snacks from the hike food plan
- Personal eating utensil, cup or bowl only as required
- Map and compass if allocated
- Head torch and spare batteries
- Whistle
- Small rubbish bag
Personal care and safety
- Travel-size toothbrush and toothpaste
- Small quick-dry towel only if required
- Toilet paper and trowel only if allocated and appropriate
- Personal hygiene and menstrual products
- Sunscreen and insect repellent in small containers
- Personal first-aid items for known needs
- Medication exactly as arranged with Leaders
- Emergency/contact information as directed
Keep the load sensible
- Lay out everything and remove duplicates, bulky packaging and “just in case” extras.
- Put the lightest bulky gear low-to-middle and heavier items close to your back.
- Keep rainwear, snacks, water, navigation and first-aid access near the top or in pockets.
- Walk with the loaded pack before the activity and adjust the hip belt, shoulder straps and load lifters.
- Tell a Leader early if the pack is uncomfortable or too heavy. Do not silently struggle or leave essential safety gear behind.
Group safety equipment is allocated by Leaders.
Do not assume a phone replaces a map, compass, communication plan or emergency equipment. Stoves, fuel, water treatment and first-aid kits must follow the activity plan.