How To...Pack Like a Pro: A Backpacking Checklist From the Staff at Eastside Sports

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Let’s face it—no matter how experienced you are, forgetting something on a backpacking trip is almost a rite of passage. One minute you’re cruising up the switchbacks, and the next you realize your headlamp is still sitting on your dresser back home. That’s why we created the Eastside Sports Backpacking Checklist—a simple, field-tested guide to make sure you leave with everything you need (and nothing you don’t).

This checklist was built by our staff—people who live and breathe the Eastern Sierra and spend countless nights out in the backcountry. We’ve learned the hard way, so you don’t have to.

The list is organized into four essential categories:

Camp & Hike

This section covers your backpack (aim for 40–60L for most trips), tent or bivy setup, sleeping system, and headlamp—plus all the small items that are easy to overlook like your pillow, toothpaste, and yes, wet wipes. Don’t forget a Kula cloth or Wag Bag if you’re headed somewhere where Leave No Trace ethics are critical (hint: that’s everywhere).

Cooking

Nothing crushes morale like realizing you forgot your lighter or your spoon. This section reminds you to pack not just the stove and fuel, but also the pot, sponge, and biodegradable soap to clean up after. Pro tip: Bring a folding knife—they always come in handy.

Clothes

From rain shells to baselayers, this part of the list helps you plan for every condition. Weather in the Sierra changes fast—sunny mornings can turn stormy by afternoon—so pack that puffy, rain jacket, and gloves, even in summer. And don’t underestimate the power of a buff or bandana—great for sun, sweat, and even filtering sediment out of water.

Safety

This might be the most important section of all. A water treatment plan, maps, emergency beacon, and first aid kit can literally save your life. Don’t skimp here. Bonus items like hand sanitizer, bug repellant, and a whistle are easy to pack and well worth the ounces.

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The Bottom Line

Print this checklist. Screenshot it. Tape it to your gear bin. However you use it, just don’t leave for your next trip without it. Our staff designed this to be simple but complete—because forgetting your toothbrush is one thing, but forgetting your GPS or stove fuel? That’s another story.

Need help dialing in your kit? Come talk to us in the shop or explore our curated gear collection at www.EastsideSports.com. Whether you're a seasoned thru-hiker or packing for your first overnight, we're here to help you head out confident and ready.

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