Your No-Stress Guide to Heading Into the Wild (and actually enjoying it)

Backcountry hiking isn't just about the destination — it’s about being prepared enough to enjoy the journey. And when you're spending the night out there, what you pack can make or break the experience.

Whether it’s your first overnight trip or your tenth, here’s a solid list of what to bring (and why it matters).

The Essentials: Your Backcountry Non-Negotiables!

Let’s start with the basics: the gear that’s going to keep you safe, dry, and functional out there.

Backpack (40–60L): Big enough for your gear, small enough not to ruin your back. Try it on before the hike.
Tent: Lightweight and weather-appropriate. No one wants a surprise 3am shower — or bugs.
Sleeping Bag + Sleeping Pad: Get one that suits the season. A good pad = insulation AND comfort. Your spine will thank you.
Water (and maybe a filter or purification system): Bring enough for the hike in, then filter from streams/lakes as needed. Don’t play hydration roulette.
Food & Snacks: Think high-calorie, packable, and low-prep: dehydrated meals, trail mix, nut butter, bars, dried fruit. (Don’t forget the snacks. You’ll need them.)
Stove + Fuel + Lighter/Matches: Lightweight stoves are game-changers. Bonus: warm oatmeal at sunrise. We love it!!
Cookware + Utensils: Spork = elite status. One pot and a mug should do the trick.
Headlamp + Extra Batteries: Trust us: holding your phone flashlight in your teeth is not ideal.
Bear cache/dry bag: Stash all your food, trash, and anything smelly in a bear-proof way. Either use a bear canister or hang a dry bag high up in a tree. That way, the bears stay happy, and your snacks stay yours. ;)

**Clothing: Layer Smart**
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. It’s all about layering and being ready for anything. Don’t you think so?
**Base Layers** (synthetic or merino)
**Mid Layer** (fleece or down jacket)
**Outer Shell** (waterproof & windproof)
**Hiking Pants**/Shorts → *We personally recommend pants!! Trust us, it’s mosquito season out there, and they’re ruthless.*
**Warm Hat**
**Extra Socks & Undies**

**First Aid + Other Items**
You don’t need a whole pharmacy, but a few things go a long way.
**Blister kit**
**Sunscreen & bug spray** (don’t forget it!!)
**Toothbrush & mini toothpaste**
**Quick-dry towel**
**TP or wipes** (and a pack it out plan!)
**Bear spray**

Optional but AMAZING

Journal / Book or Kindle / Cards or games / Instant coffee / tea (because vibes)…

One Last Thing: Train for It

Packing right is only half the battle. If you want to feel strong (not sore) on the trail, training matters.
Backcountry hiking = elevation, uneven terrain, a heavy pack, and often… sore knees.

At Peak, we prep people not just for the gym, but for this kind of stuff: Carrying weight. Moving well. Feeling capable.

Want a custom strength program that gets you trail-ready?

We’ve got you. Let’s build it.
Go Further, Rest Better, and Actually Enjoy the View The more prepared you are, the more freedom you’ll feel out there.

And stay tuned: our weekly Peak Trail Picks continue next week! Happy hiking 🏔

Gear Spotlight:

We also love supporting local shops! If you’re looking for some of the gear we mentioned, check out Mt Waddington — they’ve got great backcountry essentials and can help you find exactly what you need. Swing by their store or browse their selection online to get trail-ready.
If you’ve got a favorite piece of gear — or a question about what to bring — drop it in the comments.

Train smart. Pack snacks. Sleep under the stars.