20+ lb Base Weight
This gear list is heavier, which means it doesn’t sacrifice comfort at camp. We’ve listed the same categories as the other lists, but a heavier load might include three pairs of socks instead of two, always have camp shoes, and maybe extra layers for multiple days of hiking.
It’s entirely up to you, but if you are carrying heavier gear and don’t mind the weight, these are the backpacking items for you. As a bonus, all of these items are easy to find at bigger retailers and since they aren’t specialized and ultralight, you probably won’t have lead times.
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
Osprey Atmos 65
Capacity: 65L
Weight: 4.5 pounds
This is the Cadillac of backpacks, and we only recommend going for it if you have a lot of gear to carry. It’s super comfortable, has plenty of pockets for organizing your gear, and Osprey’s proprietary AntiGravity suspension system. It’s a hefty bag, but the weight distribution is clutch.
Sleeping Bag
Mountain Hardware Bishop Pass
Weight: 3lb, 5 ounces
Temperature Rating: 15 degrees comfort, 0 degrees lower limit
This is a bag for unpredictable temperatures. Use it for everything from early to late season, and know that Big Agnes uses only RDS-certified down.
Sleeping Pad
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite
Weight: 12 ounces
R-Value: 4.2
This is a solid pad for a luxury backpacker as well as one more concerned with weight. It rolls down to the size of a Nalgene and is comfortable 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
Weight: 2lbs, 11 ounces
Livable Space: 29 square foot interior; 2 9-foot vestibules
This tent is one of the most popular for long-distance backpackers, and when split between two people, it’s not a huge weight penalty. There are so many sub-three-pound freestanding tents on the market that you really don’t have to splurge on weight, and the Copper Spur is a great example of this. Two 9sf vestibules and dual doors leave plenty of space for moving around and stashing gear.
Clothing
Down Jacket: Patagonia Fitzroy Down Hoodie
Packed with 800-fill down, this toasty jacket has wide, rectangular baffles to keep the heat in. The deep hood and longer length offer more protection than a slimmer jacket with a shorter cut.
Rain Jacket: REI Westwinds GTX Jacket
If you have the budget, always opt for a rain jacket with Gore-Tex or equivalent. Anything with a multi-layer membrane is more breathable than PU membranes, which helps avoid that clammy feeling.
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. Top here.
The Rest of the Basics
Headlamp: Black Diamond Storm 400
400 lumens is more than enough for night hiking and getting around camp after dark. This lasts four hours on the high beam, which is longer than other, lighter models. It takes batteries, so make sure you’re prepared with spares for longer trips. The 160-lumen setting is also enough power to see fairly well with, and helps the battery last even longer.
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: GSI Halulite Microdualist
Super sturdy with everything you need to cook a full backcountry meal. We’ve used this cookpot for almost five years and it barely shows any wear. Pair it with a lightweight-yet-efficient MSR PocketRocket for a full setup.
Trekking Poles: Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork
Simple, sturdy, and no-frills, these trekking poles have stood the test of time. They have a secure locking mechanism and a wide, comfortable wrist strap, and nearly 30 inches of adjustable space.
