After six plus years of backpacking, we can tell you that the twenty-one items following are essential. Backpacker Magazine may say different, but we have learned through trial and error that you don’t want to leave home without these listed items. Backpacker Magazine may also have items listed that we do not, and although you may want to take a knife, map, compass and whistle; in our 82 months and 600+ miles of backpacking, we have never needed a knife, map, compass or whistle. However, in all honesty, the map and compass may have come in handy the few times we got lost. But what do we know …. we’re Two Schmucks.

21 Essential Items In or On Your Backpack

1. Tent
2. Sleeping Bag
3. Sleeping Mat
4. Food
5. Matches
6. Extra Clothes
7. Water and Filter
8. First Aid Kit
9. Toilet Paper
10. Light
11. Fire Paste
12. Camp Shoes
13. Pillow
14. Cook Stove w/Fuel
15. Metal Cup
16. Spork
17. Extra ziplock bags
18. Hot beverage
19. Carabiners
20. Stool
21. Bandana