Hold on! Before you lace up those boots and hit the trails, let’s talk about a trusty packing checklist. Trust me, as someone who has learned from a few forgetful mishaps, being well-prepared is key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable camping experience. So, whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a newbie adventurer, this checklist will help you make the most of your time in the mountains.
Also included at the end of this post is an easy to copy list for ease!
Blog Contents
WHAT TO WEAR/HAVE HANDY
Let’s start with what to wear and have handy during your mountain escapades.
- First and foremost—reliable hiking boots are an absolute must. Trust me, they’re way comfier than hiking in sneakers, and your feet will thank you.
- Opt for clothes that are not only comfortable but also easy to move around in and sweat-proof. After all, you’ll be conquering those trails like a true mountain warrior!
- Walking poles will provide extra stability and support during challenging terrains.
- Hydration is key, so pack a water bottle or two to quench your thirst along the way
- To shield yourself from the sun’s mighty rays, don’t leave behind your trusty hat and sunglasses (and remember to slather on that sunblock before you head out—it’s a mountain must!)
- We all encounter a few yucky things on our outdoor adventures, so keeping hand sanitiser handy is a wise move.
- Let’s not forget about snacks and lunch! Energising yourself with delicious bites will keep those hiking spirits high.
- Make sure to stash some tissues in your backpack—trust me, those pocket-sized wonders come in handy for various situations, including the occasional nose-blowing.
- And finally-take a bag for any rubbish you may accumulate—preferably a reusable one!
WHAT TO PACK
Now that you’re dressed for success, let’s talk about what goes into your backpack.
- Water, water, water! Make sure you bring loads of it, especially if there are no freshwater spots on your route.
- A sturdy tent will be your home away from home, offering shelter and comfort.
- Along with the tent, pack cozy sleeping bags and mattresses. If you’re camping with a partner, trust me, taking two mattresses will save you from a potential nighttime squabble. A good night’s sleep is worth it!
- Food is fuel, so make sure to pack enough for your camping adventure. Plan for meals like lunch, dinner, and breakfast, and don’t forget those energy bars and snacks to keep your energy levels up.
- Layer up, my friend! In the mountains, temperatures can drop unexpectedly. So, pack thermal clothing and a cozy polar fleece.
- Speaking of staying warm, don’t forget to pack some comfortable clothing to sleep in. Your thermal and polar fleece can double as cozy sleepwear, or you can opt for long johns to keep your bottom half toasty.
- To keep everything organised and easily accessible, invest in packing cells. These nifty little bags will be your best friends when it comes to keeping your clothes and food neatly separated. Plus, they’re environmentally friendly too. I personally love using the ones from Kathmandu, which are made from recycled plastic bottles. A win for sustainability.
- When the sun sets and darkness blankets the mountains, a reliable torch or battery-run light will guide your path and ensure you don’t trip over any unexpected obstacles. Safety first, folks!
- Now, let’s talk hygiene. While camping in the mountains, don’t expect luxurious shower facilities to magically appear. That’s where baby wipes come to the rescue! They’re not ideal but they are a convenient alternative. And if you’re lucky enough to be camping near a water source or a lake, pack your togs and towel for a quick dip—nothing beats a refreshing swim in the great outdoors.
- Fresh clothes are a must to start your day right. After all, wearing dirty underwear isn’t exactly the pinnacle of appeal, right? So, pack a clean set of clothes for the morning, and you’ll feel refreshed and ready to tackle the day’s adventures.
- Mother Nature can be unpredictable, and an unexpected shower can catch you off guard. That’s why a waterproof and windproof jacket is your best friend. It shields you from unexpected downpours and protects you from the chilly mountain air.
- As an avid adventurer, you’ll definitely want to capture the breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable moments. So, pack your trusty camera gear—whether it’s a DSLR, a mirrorless camera, or just your smartphone. And hey, to save on bag space, take only the essentials: one camera, a spare battery, and a sturdy tripod for those stunning mountain selfies.
PRACTICALITIES
Now, let’s talk practicalities.
- Carrying some cash is a smart move, especially if your mountain route includes refuges or other establishments. In case you run out of water or need any other essential items, having cash on hand will come in handy. But be warned, things in the mountains can be a bit pricey. It’s the price we pay for enjoying these incredible landscapes.
- Don’t forget to bring along an external charger or two. It’s a lifesaver for keeping your electronic devices powered up, whether it’s your camera, smartphone, or other gadgets you can’t live without.
- Last but certainly not least, a trusty pocket knife should never be left behind. It’s a versatile tool that comes in handy for various camping needs, from opening food packages to repairing gear. Safety is paramount, so always handle it responsibly.
- And of course, let’s not forget about safety and well-being. Packing a compact first aid kit with essentials like band-aids, antiseptic cream, pain relievers, and any necessary medications is a necessity. It’s always better to be prepared for minor bumps, bruises, and unexpected mishaps along the way.
THE LIST
And as promised, an easy to copy packing list for ease:
- Reliable hiking boots
- Comfortable, easy-to-move-in clothes
- Walking poles
- Water and water bottle
- Hat and sunglasses
- Sunblock
- Hand sanitiser
- Snacks and lunch
- Tissues
- Reusable bag for rubbish
- Tent
- Sleeping bags
- Mattresses
- Pillows
- Food (lunch, dinner, breakfast, energy bars, snacks)
- Thermal and polar fleece
- Warm clothing to sleep in
- Packing cells
- Torch or battery-run light
- Baby wipes
- Togs and towel
- Fresh clothes for the morning
- Waterproof and windproof jacket
- Camera gear (camera, spare battery, tripod)
- Cash
- External charger/s
- Pocket knife
- First aid kit
While I may not be an expert in mountain camping, I’ve learned valuable lessons from my experiences in the stunning mountains of Chamonix. If you are interested in hearing about them you can check out my 5 favourite Chamonix hikes here.
With this comprehensive checklist in hand, you’ll be well-prepared for your own mountain adventure. Remember, the key to a successful trip lies in proper preparation and packing. So, gear up, embrace nature, and get out there and hike some breathtaking mountains.