What to Pack…

Everyone brings different equipment when they head into the Sierra Wilderness. Your experience level and the type of trip you’re planning will play a huge role in determining what gear you bring, but here are some basics to consider when packing for any overnight wilderness trip in the Sierra.

Clothing

• Hiking boots – should be broken-in and waterproofed.
• Rain jacket and pants
• Thin wool or synthetic pants
• wool sweater, lightweight down or synthetic jacket
• Wool socks
• Liner socks (if you like liners)
• Synthetic underwear, synthetic t-shirt (no cotton)
• Quick drying shorts or pants
• Wool or synthtic cap
• Wool or synthetic gloves or mittens
• Lightweight hat with brim
• Bandanna

Equipment

• Backpack with pack cover
• Map of your route, and compass or GPS (and the ability to use them)
• Appropriate food for your trip, plus some extra
• Bear canister allowed for use in the area you’re visiting
• Sleeping bag and waterproof stuff sack
• Tent or tarp with ground cloth
• Sleeping pad
• First-aid kit – don’t forget moleskin
• Stove, cook-kit, mug, utensils, and fuel
• Matches or lighter
• Lightweight eating gear – cup, bowl, spoon.
• Flashlight or headlamp and extra batteries
• Pocket knife or multi-tool
• Garbage bags
• Water bottle and water treatment or filter
• Collapsable water container for camp
• Mosquito repellant or bug net
• Chapstick and sun screen
• Toilet paper in a plastic bag
• Trowel for digging cat holes (for human waste)
• Toiletries - toothbrush/paste, glasses or contacts, personal medications
• Repair kit
• Decent sunglasses
• Watch
• Duct tape
• Maybe some more duct tape

Other Ideas:

• Sandals or camp shoes
• Journal and pen/pencil
• Fishing gear with a fishing permit
• Camera
• Binoculars
• Hiking poles
• Book or magazine