The Hiking Gear Checklist
Stop second-guessing what's in your pack. A printable day hike and multi-day checklist plus the Ten Essentials, built from 35+ years on the trail.
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What's Inside the Checklist
Day Hike + Multi-Day Lists
Two printable checklists covering everything from your main pack down to your spare socks, ready to take to the gear cupboard.
The Ten Essentials
A clear, no-nonsense reference for the safety items every hiker should carry, regardless of trip length.
Built From The Trail
Pulled together from 35+ years of multi-day hiking and guiding, so you're packing what actually matters.
The Ten Essentials on the List
Every checklist starts with the same ten safety items. Carry them on a short afternoon walk and on a week-long trip.
Navigation
Map, compass and a charged GPS or phone app with offline maps.
Sun protection
Sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses and a brimmed hat.
Insulation
A warm layer and rain shell sized for the worst weather likely that day.
Head torch
Plus spare batteries. Walking out in the dark happens more often than people expect.
First aid
A kit you know how to use, including blister care and any personal medication.
Fire or heat
Lighter or matches in a dry bag, and a stove on longer trips.
Repair kit
Knife, cord, tape and a spare buckle or pole splint.
Food
Your planned meals plus one extra day of easy snacks.
Water
Enough capacity for the driest section, and a filter or tablets to treat more.
Emergency shelter
Bivvy bag, tarp or tent, along with a personal locator beacon.
Day hike packing list
Daypack, water and a way to treat it, lunch and snacks, rain jacket and warm layer, hat and sunscreen, map and compass, head torch, first aid kit, phone and a small repair kit.
Multi-day packing list
Everything above plus a larger pack and liner, tent, sleeping bag and mat, stove, fuel and pot, meals for each day, spare socks and thermals, camp shoes, toilet kit and a personal locator beacon.
Created by Mowser, 35+ years of multi-day hiking experience, Certificate III in Tourism Guiding, and former senior guide at Cradle Mountain Huts.