10-15lb base weight
This pack list usually ends up weighing about 12-15 pounds (not including food or water) and is great for people who save weight in some areas but enjoy added comfort in others. This is a sample selection of gear for people who carry a 45-55L pack, and have some backpacking experience.
This is by no means a complete list, but we have the basics to get you started. We’ve included a few essential layering items, but not shoes—you’re on your own for footwear, since it’s just so specific. We will say that we like Altras, Hokas, and Salomons for long-distance hiking, and we rarely wear hiking boots. Go for the trail runners. You’re welcome.
Also! Much like the trails on this site, will only recommend gear that we have personally used, and we’re always open to questions. Hit us up for more details. We’ve hiked a lot.
Pack
Gossamer Gear G4-20
Capacity: 42L
Weight: 1lb, 11 ounces
This is the pack Maggie has been using for the past season. Designed specifically with long-distance backpackers in mind, the G4-20 has a roll-top closure for easy compression with smaller loads, slanted side pockets so you can grab water while moving, and a stretchy mesh pocket for stashing wet items. Hip belt is comfortable and the pockets are huge. We recommend using a pack liner if you’re predicting a super wet hike—the Robic Nylon is DWR treated, but it won’t stay dry forever.
Sleeping Bag
Therm-a-Rest Hyperion 20
Weight: 1lb, 4 ounces
Temperature Rating: 32 degrees comfort, 20 degrees lower limit
This is one of the best weight-to-warmth ratios from any of the mainstream brands. The Hyperion is a simple bag with a deep hood, wide shoulders, and no bells and whistles. The simplicity of the zipper construction can allow the material to catch, and some people might find the regular size a bit long.
Sleeping Pad
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite
Weight: 12 ounces
R-Value: 4.2
A classic for long-distance backpackers, the new XLite has an improved valve that seals tighter and takes less oxygen to inflate. A blessing for camp setup. It rolls down to the size of a Nalgene and is ultra-cush for side sleepers. Be wary of throwing it down on a thorny area, and using a ground sheet for cowboy camping is recommended.
Tent
Big Agnes Copper Spur 2
Weight: 2lbs, 11 ounces
Livable Space: 29 square foot interior; 2 9-foot vestibules
The Copper Spur sits firmly in the middle of a good balance between convenience, space, and weight savings. It’s not the lightest on the market, but with the interior space, luxury of two vestibules and two entrances, and the semi-freestanding system, it really can’t be beat. Split between two people it’s a very reasonable weight for the space. It pitches quickly, has a stable setup, and two people can comfortably sit up and stash their gear in the vestibules.
Clothing
Down Jacket: Patagonia Down Sweater
The classic mid-range jacket. It has a standard fit for layering over or under, and weighs 13 ounces. Plus, Patagonia has all responsible down sourcing.
Rain Jacket: Outdoor Research Helium
A simple, sleek rain jacket that does its job with no frills. Long enough to sit under a pack hip belt and with a deep hood to keep the drips out.
Socks: Darn Tough Hiking Socks
There’s a lot of sock competition out there, but Darn Tough consistently comes out on top with fit, blister prevention, and durability. Micro crew or crew height is your best bet for keeping debris out of your shoes.
Base Layers: REI Co-op Merino Midweight
Really just putting this model here for consistency. You’re really good with any merino base layers… Costco makes them, your local outdoor shop probably has a brand. Look for a 250 weight for a good midrange.
The Rest of the Basics
Headlamp: BioLite Headlamp 330
This little rechargeable gem has a proprietary built-in design, with the light unit integrated into a wide, comfortable headband. Button is small and kind of hard to maneuver, but overall it’s a great light.
Filter: Sawyer Squeeze
We’d recommend this filter for any gear list. Inexpensive, fast flow, and screws onto most standard water bottles, like SmartWater or Life Water.
Cookset: JetBoil
Despite being bulkier than other options, it’s hard to beat the convenience of a JetBoil. Just grab a can of fuel, screw it on, and hit the igniter. Boils water in just a few minutes, and this size is more than enough for most backpacking meals. Note: we recommend bringing a lighter as well… the igniters don’t have the longest lifespan.
Trekking Poles: Leki Micro Vario
These are the women’s-specific version, but you can’t go wrong with a pair of Leki’s carbon poles. They weigh 8 ounces each and z-fold for easy collapse, along with a sturdy lock and an 8-inch length variation. The 8 inches isn’t as much as some other models, but most people won’t need to adjust more than that.
