Camping & Backpacking Packing List Generator

How the list is built

Every list starts from the Ten Essentials — navigation, headlamp, sun protection, first aid, knife, fire, shelter, extra food, extra water and extra clothes — then adds what your trip type actually needs. Car campers get the cooler, chairs and a two-burner stove; backpackers get the lightest version of each system plus water treatment and food storage; day hikers get a compact kit with an emergency bivy.

Quantities scale with your inputs: food is planned at roughly 1.5–2 lb per person per day for backpacking, socks and underwear cap at four pairs (wash and rotate on longer trips), and stove fuel scales with group size. Season changes the clothing and sleep system — cold trips add a second pad, insulated layers, traction and hand warmers; hot trips add sun protection, shade and a tent fan.

Before you go

• Check fire restrictions and campground rules — many parks ban fires in dry months.
• Check the forecast with the trail weather tool and adjust layers.
• Leave your trip plan (route, campsites, return time) with someone at home.
• New to this? Read Camping 101 and the car camping essentials guide.

Frequently asked questions

What are the Ten Essentials for hiking?

Navigation (map, compass, phone), a headlamp, sun protection, first aid, a knife or multi-tool, fire starter, emergency shelter, and extra food, water and clothing. They are built into every list this tool makes.

How much food should I pack per day for backpacking?

Plan on about 1.5 to 2 pounds of food per person per day, or roughly 2,500 to 3,500 calories depending on effort. The camp meal planner can size it for your group.

Is my checklist saved?

Yes. Ticks are saved in your browser on this device, and the page link stores your trip settings so you can bookmark or share it.