How to Pack a Week Long Hiking Pack

Ensuring you have the right gear when going on a week long hiking trip is essential for comfort and safety. Be prepared for all types of weather, even if the forecast is fine. Carry extra food and water in wilderness areas in case you become lost and need to ration supplies. Gear required can vary depending on terrain and season. For example, if hiking in winter you will need warmer clothing and bedding, while warmer climes may require lots of sunscreen and insect repellent.

Things You'll Need

  • Large hiking pack
  • Tent
  • Clothing
  • Footwear
  • Food
  • Cooking utensils
  • Water
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
  • Medical kit
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Instructions

    • 1

      Ensure you have an appropriate, good quality pack and tent. Both are essential to the enjoyment of a week long hike. A full size travel or hiking backpack, with a capacity of at least 5,000 to 6,000 cubic inches is necessary for a week long trip. The best styles have several separate compartments so you can easily access different items during your hike. Make sure your pack is the right size for your torso length. Tents should be as lightweight as possible. Avoid cheap brands and go for good quality dome or geodesic designs.

    • 2

      Pack suitable, comfortable clothing. Do thorough research on expected weather conditions in the area first but be prepared for colder than you expect. Layers will help keep you warm and if you get hot, you can simply peel them off. In cooler climates polypropylene garments are essential. Key items to pack include a waterproof jacket, two t-shirts, long sleeve top or jersey, lightweight trousers, shorts, at least three pairs of woolen socks, underwear, and, depending on the climate, warm hat and gloves. Don't forget a lightweight easy-dry towel, and sturdy, broken in hiking boots as well as sandals and a swimsuit where appropriate. When packing your bag, roll each item of clothing tightly to fit more in.

    • 3

      Pack plenty of food including emergency rations and take a supply of fresh water where required. Muesli, powdered milk, freeze dried meals and dried soups are good hiking staples. Trail mix, made of nuts, dried fruit and chocolate is a great energy booster and snack. You may also want coffee, tea and sugar. Pack foods in zip lock plastic bags to save room on containers and keep weight to a minimum.

    • 4

      Pack essential camping gear. You will need a sleeping bag. Make sure it is appropriate for the weather conditions of where you are headed. Cooking equipment should include a gas cooker, fuel for the cooker, plastic cup, tablespoon and lightweight pot. You can save on utensils by eating out of the pot. Don't forget a torch or headlight, toiletries, pocket knife, small first aid kit including plasters in case you get blisters, insect repellent and sunscreen where necessary.

    • 5

      Pack any extras you can fit in, such as a camera, notebook and pen.