BearVault's Guide to Backpacking

• Ultralight tents are now the standard for backpackers, striking a balance between weatherproofing and packability. Look for models under 3 pounds with good ventilation and a practical setup.
• Trekking pole tents save weight by doubling up on gear function—but check compatibility before buying.
• Hammocks are a fun, ultralight option if you'll have trees. Don't forget a bug net and rain tarp, and be aware that hammock camping isn't allowed everywhere.
• Bivy sacks/cowboy camping are minimal, but leave you exposed to bugs and weather. Consider this only in reliably dry, mild conditions.

Be sure to set up your shelter before your trip a few times—it'll save frustration (and time) once you're on the trail.

—> explore our backpacking tent guide for more expert tips

• Temperature ratings: Match your bag's "comfort" rating to expected low nighttime temps where you'll camp. If you sleep cold, err on the warm side.
• Down vs. synthetic fill: Down is warmer/lighter for the weight, but synthetic bags insulate better when wet and are cheaper.
• Fit: Mummy bags maximize warmth but can feel restrictive; rectangular bags are roomier.
• Testing: Standardized ratings (EN/ISO) let you compare across brands.

• R-value: The higher the R-value, the better the insulation. 3 is fine for summer; 5 or more for shoulder seasons; winter needs 8+.
• Types: Inflatable pads are light and pack small; self-inflating and closed-cell foam pads offer durability and reliability.
• Comfort vs. weight: Thicker pads feel better but weigh more—find your balance with a home trial.

| Pro Tip: Pads can deflate or puncture—know how to patch and be prepared in case it happens.

• Canister stoves are popular, fast, reliable, and easy to use.
• Liquid fuel stoves work better in cold/windy conditions and for international trips.
• No-cook: You can skip a stove to go ultralight, but most backpackers prefer hot meals after a long hike.

| Pro Tip:Always check burn bans in advance—some areas restrict stoves in extreme fire danger!

• Filters & purifiers: Options include squeeze filters, pump filters, gravity systems, and purification tablets or drops.
• Speed vs. weight: Squeeze bags and pump filters are fastest; tablets are lightest but require long wait times.
• Best practice: Always carry two ways to treat water (e.g., filter + tablets) in case of gear failure.

| Pro Tip: Learn to identify upstream hazards—heavy rainfall, livestock grazing, or campsites can all impact water quality.

• Bear canisters are required in many parks. Approved models, such as BearVault cansiters, offer best-in-class protection and easy access.
• Best location: Store food and all scented items at least 70 steps from both the tent and the cook site.

Bear canisters aren't just about checking off a regulation—they put your mind at ease at night:

"It makes me feel safe, because after using it for almost 7 years now, I have never, not once, ever, had an incident with an animal obtaining my food."
– Christina

—> Learn more about why bear canisters matter

• Avoid cotton: It holds moisture and can make you colder. Choose wool or synthetic for base and insulating layers.
• Layer system: Base layer (wicks sweat), mid-layer (insulation), shell (wind/rain).
• Pack light: 1–2 hiking outfits, 1 sleep set, and weather-specific extras. You don't need an outfit for each day. You'll smell a bit by the time you get to the trailhead - but don't worry, everyone does, and it's ok!
• Special features: Look for clothing with ventilation zips, pockets, or sun protection, depending on your needs.

|Pro Tip: Leave a clean change of clothes in the car and sandals for when you get back to the trailhead for a comfortable drive home!

• Hiking boots offer ankle support for rough trails or heavy packs, while trail runners are lighter and dry quickly.
• Sandals/camp shoes: Good for river crossings and around camp, but not suitable for long-distance walking.
• Break-in: Always test footwear on short hikes before a big trip to avoid blisters and injuries.

| Pro Tip: Bring blister prevention (tape, cream) just in case & adjust socks if you feel hot spots

• Materials: Carbon fiber = ultralight | aluminum = durable | cork/padded grips = help reduce blisters.
• Multi-use: Many lightweight tents use poles instead of traditional stakes.
• Adjustment: Set pole height so the elbow is at 90° when standing.

Paper maps and a reliable compass reduce the reliance on electricity, but require a certain skill level that would be dangerous to try hacking. An app on your smartphone, a watch, or a hand-held GPS tracker means you must stay on top of battery usage and potentially pack a backup.

• Offline maps: Download route maps in advance; track battery life and bring backup power.
• Check-ins: Leave your itinerary with someone at home, and consider carrying a satellite communicator for remote trips.

| Pro Tip:Practice navigation skills locally before you need them in the backcountry

• Kit basics: Include bandages, disinfectant, blister treatment, bleed-stop, powder, medications, tick remover, and any personal prescriptions
• Skills: Consider a wilderness first aid course
• Extras: Add bug spray (keep it safely packaged in a bag—will damage your gear), sunscreen, and athlete's foot powder for multi-day trips. The extra weight is worth it!

• Headlamps: Leave your hands free—look for adjustable brightness, 250–500 lumens, and comfortable straps.
• Backup: Carry spare batteries or a small flashlight.
• Red mode: Preserves night vision and attracts fewer bugs.

• Options: Waterproof matches, flint and steel (know how to use it!), and a lighter—carry all three just in case
• Fire bans: Always check restrictions before your trip and respect local rules. It's your responsibility to prevent forest fires

| Pro Tip: We know it sounds redundant at this point, but practice starting a fire—don't wait until you need it and discover you can't

• Essentials: Knife, duct tape, and a trowel for waste
• Extra Gear: Only bring items you'll actually use—leave heavy extras at home

| Pro Tip: Wrap duct tape around your trekking poles or lighter for an easy, lightweight "just in case" fix.

• Pot or bowl & Spork: Ultralight, durable cookware (especially a long-handled spork) makes meal prep and cleanup easy—no burned fingers or wasted calories stuck at the bottom of dehydrated meal bags.
• Satellite Communicator: Devices like Garmin inReach could be a trip-saver. When your phone loses service, it lets you send messages from anywhere, track your route for loved ones, or call SOS if things go wrong—peace of mind for you and your crew. /li>
• Powerbank: A lightweight powerbank (5,000–10,000mAh) means it stays functional for navigation and photos, no matter how long you're out./li>
• Trowel: For Leave No Trace bathroom breaks, a sturdy trowel is your key to digging a proper "cat hole." Everyone deserves a clean campsite!
• Toilet Paper/Wet Wipes: Pack it in and pack it out (in a ziplock bag)! Keeps you comfortable and maintains good hygiene.
• Water Bottle: Ditch heavy double-walled bottles for a classic 1L Nalgene or collapsible flask—light, won't break, and easy to refill.
• Sunscreen: At altitude, the sun burns faster. Bring high SPF, and keep it handy for reapplying during breaks–especially on exposed ridges or snowfields
• Mini-Hand sanitizer: Quick, reliable hand cleaning comes in handy at meal time and provides some extra hygiene.
• Bug Repellent: Skip the DEET (too harsh for gear), opt for picaridin or natural alternatives. Treating clothes with permethrin before the trip stops most biting bugs
• Toothbrush & Toothpaste: Dental health matters! Toothpaste tablets are a great option, and a mini brush slips easily into kits. Bonus: clean teeth feel amazing after a long day!
• Personal hygiene items: small comforts (hair ties, menstrual supplies, maybe a mini deodorant) aren't a luxury, they're sanity savers. Leave fragrances and makeup at home. Scent-free is best in the wild
• Paperback Book: Nothing beats unwinding with a short story or a small journal. Lightweight, tech-free entertainment for stormy tent-bound evenings
• Sunglasses: Why? Because the sun can get bright, especially at high elevation and on snow!
• Sun Hat/Ball Cap: Wide-brim hats or caps beat a sunburn, heat exhaustion, and squinting through long days. Choose what feels comfortable and stays on in the wind.
• Rain Cover: train happens a fitted rain cover or big trash bag keeps your pack dry and doubles as an emergency shelter or ground cover if needed
• Microspikes/Ice Axe: If crossing snow or ice, microspikes offer instant traction. An ice axe is essential for safety on steep snow slopes. (only needed if you're on large stretches of snow)
• Winter-Specific Gear: Winter trips demand extra insulation, warm sleep systems, gloves, and weather-resistant layers. Update your packing list for the season.
• Food& Snacks: High-calorie, delicious snacks boost energy and morale. Think trail mix, jerky, bars, or even your favorite candy!
  
  —> Here are a few of our lazy meals

| Pro Tip: Try a "shake-down" hike test drive your odds and ends. Remove items you never use and keep adding what makes your experience easier and more fun!