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What to Pack for Backpacking

Backpacking is the one kind of travel where weight genuinely matters, because you carry everything you bring, all day.

Packing1 min readPublished Maya Elliot

In short

  • Everything washes in a sink. Merino and technical synthetics dry overnight.
  • Two of each, wear one wash one. That is the whole system.
  • One palette so nothing is stranded. Losing or ruining one item should not strand another.

Backpacking is the one kind of travel where weight genuinely matters, because you carry everything you bring, all day.

Everything washes in a sink

Merino and technical synthetics dry overnight. Cotton does not, and wet cotton in a pack is dead weight for days.

Two of each, wear one wash one

That is the whole system. A third of anything is almost always unnecessary.

One palette so nothing is stranded

Losing or ruining one item should not strand another. A single palette means anything replaces anything.

A backpacking list

A backpacking list

  • 2 quick-dry t-shirts
  • 1 long-sleeve for sun and cool evenings
  • 1 pair of trousers that zip or roll
  • 1 pair of shorts
  • 1 fleece or light insulation
  • 1 packable waterproof
  • 3 sets of merino underwear and socks
  • Walking shoes, worn
  • Sandals for showers and evenings
  • Travel wash and a universal sink plug

Frequently asked questions

How much should a backpack weigh?

Aim under 10kg for clothing and gear. Above that the trip is defined by carrying it.

How do I wash clothes while backpacking?

Sink, travel wash, roll in a towel to remove water, hang overnight. Merino and synthetics are dry by morning; cotton is not.

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