What-to-Pack-for-a-Multi-Day-Hiking-or-Trekking-Trip - Great Outdoors Ireland

Let’s face it—hiking for multiple days is no walk in the park (pun intended). When you’re out in the backcountry, your gear is your lifeline. Forget a headlamp? You’re in the dark. No extra socks? Hello, blisters! That’s why packing efficiently—but thoroughly—is crucial.

Here’s your ultimate, no-nonsense packing list for a multi-day hiking or trekking trip. Just remember: conditions vary, so always tailor your kit based on the weather, terrain, and duration of your adventure.


🏕️ Core Gear Essentials

This is your survival kit, your home away from home. Choose lightweight and compact versions whenever possible:

  • Backpack (40–65L) – Enough capacity for gear, but not overkill.

  • Tent or Shelter – A 3-season tent, bivy sack, or hammock with tarp.

  • Sleeping Bag – Rated appropriately for the expected nighttime temps.

  • Sleeping Pad – For insulation and comfort. Inflatable or foam works.

  • Trekking Poles – Save your knees, especially on steep or uneven trails.

  • Headlamp + Extra Batteries – Reliable lighting is non-negotiable.

  • Navigation Tools – Map, compass, GPS, or a reliable offline app like Gaia GPS or AllTrails.


👕 Clothing: Layer Like a Pro

Staying dry and regulating your body temp is key. Think layers!

  • Base Layers (top & bottom) – Moisture-wicking and breathable.

  • Insulation Layer – Fleece or down jacket for warmth.

  • Outer Shell (Rain Jacket & Pants) – Waterproof and windproof.

  • Hiking Pants/Shorts – Quick-drying and comfortable.

  • T-Shirts or Long Sleeves – Breathable and lightweight.

  • Extra Socks (2–3 pairs) – Merino wool is your best friend.

  • Underwear – Moisture-wicking and breathable.

  • Hat & Gloves – For warmth and sun protection.

  • Camp Clothes – Something cozy for sleeping and chilling at camp.


🍲 Food & Cooking Supplies

Food fuels the journey—don’t skimp! Dehydrated meals, snacks, and a solid cook setup will keep your belly happy.

  • Portable Stove + Fuel – Small backpacking stoves like Jetboil or MSR PocketRocket.

  • Cookpot or Mess Kit – Titanium or aluminum are light and tough.

  • Utensils – Spork, knife, or whatever you prefer.

  • Food – Lightweight, high-calorie options:

  • Lighter + Backup Firestarter – Waterproof matches, ferro rod, etc.


💧 Water & Hydration

Staying hydrated is non-negotiable.

  • Water Bottles or Hydration Bladder – At least 2–3L capacity.

  • Water Filter or Purifier – Lifestraw, Sawyer Squeeze, or UV systems.

  • Backup Purification Tablets – Just in case your filter fails.


🧰 First Aid & Personal Care

Hope you don’t need it—but if you do, you’ll be glad you brought it.

  • Basic First Aid Kit – Bandages, antiseptic, blister care, meds.

  • Toiletries – Toothbrush, toothpaste, travel soap, small towel.

  • TP & Trowel – Leave no trace, people!

  • Hand Sanitizer & Wipes – For quick cleanups.

  • Sun Cream & Lip Balm (SPF) – Sunburn hurts. Everywhere.

  • Insect Spray or Head Net – Insect-heavy areas can be brutal.

  • Medications – Bring extras and keep them waterproofed.


🔒 Safety & Emergency Gear

Better safe than sorry.

  • Multi-tool or Knife – Fix gear, prep food, fend off bears (kidding... kind of).

  • Whistle – For signaling help.

  • Duct Tape or Repair Kit – For tents, sleeping pads, or shoes.

  • Emergency Blanket or Bivy – Just in case.

  • ID and Emergency Contacts – Keep a copy in your pack.


🎒 Optional But Handy Extras

  • Power Bank + Charging Cable – For phone, GPS, or headlamp.

  • Microfiber Towel – Quick-dry and compact.

  • Sitting Pad – Comfort at camp.


🧳 Pro Packing Tips

  • Pack heavy items close to your back and centered.

  • Use packing cubes or dry bags to organize.

  • Weigh your pack before heading out. Aim for no more than 20–25% of your body weight.

  • Try a “shakedown hike” with your full pack before the real thing.


✅ Printable Packing Checklist

Here’s a quick checklist you can copy, screenshot, or print:

Essentials

  • Backpack (40–65L)

  • Tent/Shelter

  • Sleeping Bag

  • Sleeping Pad

  • Headlamp

  • Navigation Tools

Clothing

  • Base Layers

  • Insulation Layer

  • Rain Gear

  • Extra Socks & Underwear

  • Camp Clothes

Food & Cooking

  • Stove + Fuel

  • Cookware

  • Utensils

  • Dehydrated Meals

  • Snacks

  • Bear Storage

Water

  • Bottles/Bladder

  • Water Filter

  • Backup Purification

First Aid & Hygiene

  • First Aid Kit

  • TP & Trowel

  • Toothbrush/Paste

  • Sun Cream/Bug Spray

Safety & Extras

  • Knife/Multi-tool

  • Emergency Blanket

  • Whistle

  • Duct Tape

  • Power Bank


🗺️ Final Thoughts

Every trail and every hiker is different. The most important thing? Know where you’re going, what the conditions are, and pack accordingly. This guide gives you a solid base, but you should always tweak it based on your destination, expected weather, and personal needs.

Ready to hit the trail? Just remember: pack light, hike smart, and enjoy every step.


FAQs

Q: How much should my pack weigh for a multi-day hike?
A: Ideally, no more than 20–25% of your body weight. 

Q: Should I bring a GPS device even if I have a phone?
A: Yes! Phones die, get lost, or break. A backup GPS or even a good ol' map and compass is smart.

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Contributing Expert - Ben Costigan

Bens day to day consists of assisting with order fulfilment online, product upload and digital marketing. Bens outdoor experience comes from his years spent in Scouts, alongside this he is first aid trained and a qualified lifeguard. Ben's favourite thing about working at the Great Outdoors is the staff and customers. Ben's biggest outdoors achievement was skiing the winter Olympic alpine routes in Innsbrück. His favourite Item we sell is the Rab Electron Pro, "extremely warm for the weight and size, extremely packable and the hydro down keeps it perfect after rain"

Expert in:

  • Hiking
  • Ski & Snowboard
  • Travel
  • Outdoor Clothing
  • Footwear

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