How to Pack for a Multi-Day Hiking Trip

Focus on the 'base weight' of your gear by choosing lightweight, multi-purpose items and prioritizing a pack that fits your torso length. Keep your gear under 20% of your body weight to ensure you can actually enjoy the trail.

1. Select the right pack. Choose a pack based on volume: 40-50 liters for a weekend trip, 60-75 liters for a week-long trek. Ensure it has a load-bearing hip belt, as 80% of the weight should rest on your hips, not your shoulders.
2. Adopt a modular layering system. Pack a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating mid-layer (fleece or down), and a waterproof outer shell. Avoid cotton entirely, as it loses insulation and takes hours to dry.
3. Organize with dry bags. Use color-coded, lightweight dry bags to categorize gear inside your pack. Keep your sleeping bag at the very bottom, heavy items (food, water) centered close to your spine, and essentials (map, snacks, rain gear) in the brain or side pockets.
4. Test your weight. Load your pack and walk around your neighborhood for 30 minutes. If your back hurts or the pack sways, redistribute the weight—heavier items need to be closer to your back.

How heavy should my pack be?

A fully loaded pack should ideally weigh no more than 20% of your body weight. For most hikers, this is between 25 and 35 pounds.

Can I bring a heavy camera?

Yes, but it must be considered part of your 'luxury' weight. If you bring a camera, you must cut weight elsewhere, such as by choosing a lighter sleeping pad or stove.

Should I pack extra clothes?

No. Pack one set of clothes to hike in and one clean, dry set specifically for sleeping. You will be wearing the same clothes for the duration of the hike.