For one night, plan around shelter, sleep, clothing, food, water, navigation, lighting, first aid, and hygiene. Carry what your route and conditions require. For shared equipment, write down who carries it before either person packs.
Pack by system
| System | What to check | Decision to make |
|---|---|---|
| Shelter | Tent or shelter, required stakes and lines | Who carries it? Are all parts accounted for? |
| Sleep | Sleeping bag or quilt, insulated pad | Are both suited to the conditions you expect? |
| Clothing | Weather layers, dry sleep layers, spare socks | What changes if it rains or cools down? |
| Food and cooking | Meals and snacks, cook kit and fuel if used, food storage | What is permitted, and what needs to be stored? |
| Water | Containers, treatment and backup as applicable | Where will water come from, and what if the source is dry? |
| Navigation and safety | Map and backup, headlamp, first aid, emergency supplies | Can each person find the route or get help if separated? |
| Hygiene | Personal medications, toiletries and waste supplies | What waste rules apply to your campsite? |
Cross-check against the NPS Ten Essentials and the local rules. A general list cannot account for each person, season or route.
Decide what each person carries
Put a name against every shared item. A tent can be a single item in one pack or split into components, each with its own weight. If you split it, replace the complete tent line with the parts so the planner does not count it twice. Keep essential personal items with the person who needs them.
Use a two-pass packing check
First mark how you will obtain it: already own, borrow, rent, buy, or undecided. Then mark what is packed after it goes in the bag. A borrowed shelter can be arranged and still be sitting in someone else's car.
Open the editable checklist to print a personal version, track outstanding decisions, and separate gear weight from food, water and fuel. Use this page's print button for a blank reference.
When the list needs to change
Review local restrictions and the forecast before departure. A required food storage container, a different water plan, or an earlier return can change what you take. Put those decisions into your trip plan and then update the pack list.
Common questions
What can two backpackers share?
Shelter and cook kit are common candidates. Agree who carries each item, and keep essential personal items accessible to the person who needs them.
Can I print a copy?
Yes. Print this guide as a reference, or print your personal list from the planner with your items, weights and assignments.
