Here’s a basic gear checklist you can use to make sure you’ve got everything you need for your trip! As much as you can, I recommend keeping it simple and getting the most lightweight gear you can afford and that is appropriate for the circumstances.

Don’t have everything? Reach out and we can consult with you. There’s options for gear rentals at your local outdoors stores, or outdoor chains like REI. We are not outfitters (yet??) but do have a few extra items of gear available in our stashes.

People are often of different camps in approaching what to bring for backpacking. Some are ultralight campers, and others are comfort creatures. The lighter your pack, the more comfortable you will be as you move through the landscape, the easier you will be on your body, and the faster you will be - especially on steep inclines and challenging footing. The longer the trip, the more important it is to really consider what is going in your pack and how essential it will be. As you review the list, consider what you really need from the optional list and what you can leave out for just a few days.

If you are building up your gear collection, feel free to reach out for advice - don’t hesitate to ask questions! If you’re not in the position to purchase every single item, there are a few options for renting or borrowing some gear.

BASICS:

- Sleeping Bag (at least 30 degrees)

- Backpack

- Sleeping pad. I use an inflatable + a z-rest that protects it from punctures and doubles as a seat and a yoga mat.

- Tent or Bivy (1 person lightweight tent)

- Bear Canister

- Head Lamp - don’t forget fresh batteries and an extra set!

- Water purifier (also in shared group gear if you don’t have/don’t want to carry)

KITCHEN:

- Personal Stove

- Camp fuel: 4oz or 8oz depending on the length of trip and how much cooking you planon doing

- Matches or lighter

- Cook kit: Bowl that doubles as pot/pan that doubles as plate (titanium or aluminum)

- Knife

- Mug

- Utensils

- Water bottles

- Ziplock bag for trash (I often use one from something I consume the first day out)

CLOTHES:

Depending on the climate or time of year, some of these are more essential than others. I don’t always require a down jacket AND a fleece hoodie, and will often skip a warm hat or gloves unless it’s super cold out. Each person has a different built in resilience to the weather, so consider whether you run hot or cold, or are sensitive to the sun, etc.

- Hiking pants

- Hiking shorts

- Legging/long underwear

- Socks: 3 pairs

- Undies: 3 pairs

- Bra: 1-2

- Hiking long sleeve: 1

- Hiking tank/short sleeve: 1-2

- Evening long sleeve

- Lightweight rain jacket

- Lightweight fleece jacket

- Down jacket

- Gloves (optional)

- Gaiters (recommended for Lost Coast)

- Hat (one for sun protection, one for warmth)

- Boots (well-broken in) (for Lost Coast, recommend NO MESH due to sand)

- Camp shoes/sandals (that can also be used for water crossings)

- Sunglasses

HYGIENE:

- Wet wipes (optional)

- Sunscreen

- Toothbrush/mini toothpaste

- Small comb (optional)

- Hair ties if you have long hair (an extra 1-2 can be useful)

- Chapstick (with SPF)

- Biodegradable soap (optional)

MISC:

- Electrolytes

- Trekking Poles

- Packable pillow

- Map (optional, also in group gear, but it’s always good to have)

- First Aid kit (optional, also in group gear, but it’s always good to have your own, especially if you know you blister easily)

- Lightweight travel yoga mat (optional, or use Z-rest)

- Camera (optional)

- Book/kindle (optional)

- Packable Lantern (optional)

- Small camping towel or handkerchief (optional)

- Mini-rechargeable battery if you bring your phone for pics (optional)

We're here to help! If you have any additional questions or need more details about the retreat, please email us at retreats@insighttimer.com, and we'll be happy to provide you with all the information you need.