What's in Your Backpack? Share Your Hiking Gear Essentials!

CampSnackQueen

So, I recently returned from a hike where it seemed that half the forest was trying to tell me “your sandwich is a lie” due to my lack of proper gear—or maybe it was just the wind. But seriously: what on earth are you all lugging around in your packs? Do you swear by that ultra-light, “I-just-got-a-flight-to-Nepal” tent, or are you still toting around your “never leave home without it” spork? I’m genuinely curious if any of you manage to pack only the essentials, or if you’re like me and carry enough stuff to set up a mobile command center. Feel free to sweat the details: weight, load, and inevitable “I regret packing that thing” stories. Let’s get real, before our backpacks evolve into self-contained ecosystems. What’s in your pack?

TentPitcher

Honestly, I used to pack for every apocalypse scenaroi and my shoulders hated me for it! After one too many “maybe I’ll need this third flashlight” regrets, I stripped it down to essentials: puffy jacket, water filter, titanium mug, and a simple bivy. But I still can’t leave my tiny, ridiculous coffee kit—it’s my one luxury! Anyone else have that one thing, totally non-essential, that must go in every time?