We find ourselves on backpacking adventures that range all over from several spots on the Appalachian Trail, gorgeous hikes in Smoky Mountain National Park, Maine’s Acadia National Park, and pristine places out West like Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park and California’s Yosemite National Park. There are so many beautiful places to see!
When packing gear for these adventures, our backpacking gear lists constantly evolve along with us. Some items on these lists change as equipment gets better, as we up our skill & comfort level, as the seasons or environment change, or if we just want to experiment with new and fun gear that might enhance our experience in nature.
We don’t consider ourselves ultralight backpackers, but try everywhere we can to stay in the lightweight backpacking weight range and ditch unnecessary weight whenever possible. Since one of my passions is photography and capturing the beauty of these destinations, my photography gear list is always much heavier than normal with my DSLR, tripod, lenses, filters, and other things.
Our Backpacking Gear List for 2020
Here’s what I consider my current backpacking setup. Mrs. Saturday’s base weight is always much lighter than mine so I can also be sure she’s enjoying her time and not struggling.
I hope this helps some of you brainstorm your gear lists. Enjoy!
Backpacking Backpacks
You gotta carry all that stuff in something right?
 ULA Circuit Backpack 68 L |  REI Flash 60 Pack - Women's | |
Backpacking Clothing
Some of these overlap into Travel Clothing, but these are the normal go-to clothes.
Electronics
I try to go as light as possible in this area. The best strategy is simply bringing less items.
General
I threw a few miscellaneous items in here that we like.
 Therm-a-Rest Z-Seat Sit Pad |  Field Notes Expedition Waterproof Journal |
Hydration
Stay hydrated my friends.
 Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter |  Sawyer Squeeze Bags - 1 L (32 oz) |  Sawyer Squeeze Bags - 2 L (64 oz) |
 SmartWater 1 liter Bottle |
Kitchen
Nourish the soul with a good meal or hot beverage in the outdoors & come back to life.
Protection – Bears, Insects, & Weather
Repel the baddies big & small. Stay safe & comfortable.
 Frontiersman Bear Spray 9.2 oz |  BearVault Bear Canister BV500 11.5 Liter |  LiteFlex or Gossamer Gear "Chrome Dome" Umbrella |
Sleeping System
Weight is extremely important, but know what’s more important? A good night’s sleep.
 Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow |  Marmot Cloudbreak 30 Sleeping Bag |  Thermarest Neoair XTherm Sleeping Pad |
 Marmot Trestles 30 Sleeping Bag - Women's |  REI Air Rail Sleeping Pad - Women's |
Shelter
Your home away from home doesn’t have to weight a ton. It should protect you from the elements.
Toiletries
Nothing like doing your business with a view.
Tools
Always have the right tool for the job my dad always said. Even better if that tool can do double or triple duty.
 Victorinox Swiss Army Compact Knife |  Leatherman Squirt PS4 Multi-Tool |
