Winter is one of the best times to explore new places, like snow-clad mountains. It gives you an opportunity to enjoy the splendor of the wilderness, without the crowds. Here, winter backpacking is what comes to your mind. However, along with adding to the beauty of your experience, it also brings about some dangers. Thus, while preparing your luggage, it is important to follow a checklist for a safe and sound journey. In winters, things have to be carried in double quantities. And often, we forget to keep the necessary things for the trek. This is where a winter backpacking checklist comes to rescue. Given below are some of the important things that need to be carried for winter backpacking, to make sure that you have a safe, successful and enjoyable recreational experience. Another significant point is to crosscheck the list at least twice before you start your journey. After this is done, it is happy trekking for you!
Image: photosteve101@flickr
Winter Backpacking Clothing & Equipment List
Clothing
- Waterproof/ breathable Jacket
- Waterproof/ breathable Pants
- Insulated Parka (heavy jacket with a hood)
- Wool Clothing
- Wool Cap
- Fleece Jacket or Wool Sweater
- Fleece Pants
- Waterproof Gaiters
- Synthetic Hiking Pants
- Base Layer
- Synthetic Long Sleeve T-shirt
- Warm Coat (down or polyester filled)
- Mittens or Gloves (preferably wool)
- Socks with extra set
- Expedition-weight Long Top
- Expedition-weight Long Bottoms
- Synthetic Briefs
Equipments
- Waterproof Hiking Boots
- Wool or Synthetic Socks (3)
- Liner Socks
- Sleeping Bag
- Air Mattress/ Sleeping Pad
- Air Pump
- Pillow
- Sheets & Blankets
- Backpack
- Flashlight or Headlamp
- Extra Batteries
- Knife or Multi-Tool
- Insulated Camping Booties
- Wool or Fleece Hat
- Balaclava
- Mid-weight Wool or Fleece Gloves
- Heavy-weight Wool or Fleece Mittens
- Synthetic Liner Gloves
- Waterproof Overmitts
- Water Filter or Iodine Drops/ Tablets
- First-aid Kit
- Repair Kit
- Map and Compass
- Utility Bags
- Insect Repellent
- Toilet Paper
- Lip Balm
- Camera and Film
- Lighter and Waterproof Matches
- Trekking Poles
- Rope (for clothesline or bear bagging)
- Lantern (with fuel or batteries)
- Whistle
- Toiletries (razor, toothbrush, etc.)
- Soap and Shampoo
- Folding Table & Chairs
- Travel Alarm Clock
- Fire Extinguisher
- Lightweight Rubber Sandals (thongs) for wearing around camp
- Camp Shoes
- Stove (white gas)
- Fuel (fuel bottles)
- Sunscreen (SPF 15+)
- Lighter
- Waterproof Strike-anywhere Matches
- Cook Set
- Spoon, Bowl, Mug
- Water Bottles
- Cooking Pots