Backpacking Expedition Packing List

Welcome to the Gallagher Expeditions Backpacking Trip! This trip will give campers an amazing experience to practice self-reliance while camping in the wilderness. We will be starting and ending our adventure at sunny Camp Gallagher, so campers are welcome to pack items and clothing that they would enjoy in a residential camp setting.

Please refer to the Classic Camp packing list for ideas regarding what your camper should pack for the days at main camp. Before the expedition starts, trip leaders will be helping campers pack their bags and cull any extra items before the trip. Since we will be carrying all of our backpacking supplies, it’s very important to think about the weight of larger items such as sleeping bags. Additionally, we ask that campers do not pack any cotton clothes that they wish to wear while backpacking - wool or synthetic clothing only.

Please note: we have some great gear to share! If campers need to borrow sleeping bags, warm jackets, or other items from the packing list, just to let us know.

FORMS

Backpacking Gear

  • Sleeping bag (non-cotton, 3 lbs. max, and stuffable)

  • Head lamp

  • Extra batteries

  • Water bottle or hydration reservoirs

  • 40-60L backpack*

  • Sleeping pad*

*Rentals: If you do not have the necessary items, there are rental options. REI and other outdoors stores rent sleeping bags and other gear. Please contact us if you need assistance securing the items on this list.

Clothing and PERSONAL ITEMS

  • Long-sleeved, base-layer top (NON-COTTON)

  • Long, base-layer pants (NON-COTTON)

  • Quick-drying pants or shorts

  • Quick-drying t-shirt

  • Rain gear (pants and jacket)

  • Insulated jacket or warm fleece

  • Undergarments (non-cotton recommended)

  • Non-cotton socks

  • Warm hat

  • Light gloves

  • Swimsuit

  • Hiking sandals with heel strap (no flip flops)

  • Hiking boots – BROKEN IN BEFORE THE TRIP

  • Sunscreen and lip balm

  • Insect repellent (travel-size recommended)

  • Toiletries (travel-size recommended)

  • Sunglasses

OPTIONAL ITEMS

  • Compass

  • Compression stuff sack

  • Trekking poles

  • Quick-dry towel

  • Disposable camera

  • Bandana or sun-shielding hat

  • Book/notebook or journal

  • Packable bowl and utensil (can also be provided by camp)

Conditioning

We recommend that campers come to camp ready to hike! Campers should be in good shape and should do several training hikes while carrying about 15-20% of their body weight. During the trip, our daily mileage will vary, but it will always be less than 10 miles over the course of a day. The more training they’ve done, the more fun they’ll have while backpacking!

Please do NOT bring

  • Music player

  • Electronic games

  • Cell phones

  • Pets

  • Gum

  • Matches

  • Fireworks

  • Knives/guns/weapons

  • Tobacco, Drugs, Vape pens