Winter Backpacking Checklist

Many amongst us have the passion for trekking. Though good weather or season is never a constraint for 'true' hikers, everyone will agree that winter is one of the most beautiful seasons for trekking! After all, the atmosphere is good, i.e. it does not make one sweat and nor does not it make one so wet that it becomes impossible to move even a step ahead! The atmosphere in winter is pleasant, but that does not mean that backpacking for winter camping is very easy. Everything needs to be carried in double quantities for winter! Here are a few tips for winter backpacking, which will help to make your task easier. The tips will be followed by the winter backpacking checklist.

Winter Backpacking Tips

The winter vacation spots are generally the places which are secluded and difficult to reach. Which means that along with the trekking equipment, basic things, which are utmost necessary for survival need to be backpacked. What are those things? First and foremost, the clothes. As it is going to be extremely cold, you need to carry the right type and amount of clothes. You will need one inner layer of clothes, through which you can get insulation in the cold weather. Above that a lightweight layer of clothes will be required, that will help to regulate the body temperature. Talking about accessories, the list is quite big, which is given below as the winter backpacking checklist. One of the important winter backpacking tip will be, remain warm as much as possible. Also check the weather reports before proceeding. Drink lots of water. One generally does not feel thirsty at all in low temperatures, but the body does require water. The lack of water can lead to dehydration, which can further lead to drop in body temperature. Make sure that your shoe laces as well as the gloves are not too tight, because tight gloves and socks can constrict blood flow, due to which your hands and feet won't remain warm. And yes, remember to carry a lightweight backpacking!

Winter Backpacking Checklist

Clothing

• Waterproof/breathable jacket
• Waterproof/breathable pants
• Insulated parka
• 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
• Midweight long john top
• Midweight long john bottoms
• Synthetic briefs

Winter Backpacking Gear List

• 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
• Midweight wool or fleece gloves
• Heavyweight 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
• 2 water bottles
• Cooking pots

This was the complete winter backpacking checklist. Do cross check the list at least twice, before starting your journey. Happy hiking!