a group of people on a backpacking trip with rucksacks and gear

Must-Have Items for Your Backpacking Trip

Whether you are a seasoned backpacker or venturing into the wilderness for the first time, effective planning and preparation is the key to a successful backpacking trip. The essence of backpacking is travelling light yet ensuring you have everything you need. It's a balance of needs, wants, and what-ifs.

Highland Industrial Supplies is committed to providing reliable and tested gear for outdoor adventures. Here, we present a list of must-have items for your next backpacking trip to make your journey comfortable, safe, and truly enjoyable.


Shelter & Sleeping Essentials

Prepare for a comfortable night's rest and create a cosy home away from home on your backpacking trip with some essential shelter and sleeping gear.

Backpacks: Think of your backpack as your walking wardrobe and storage unit. It must bear the burden of your necessities without weighing you down. Internal frames, cushioned straps, and organised pockets are what you should look for. Don't forget to choose the right volume based on your trip length and body size. For example, this 65-litre expedition backpack is perfect for longer adventures!

Tents: A tent is your pop-up home under the stars. It needs to be lightweight, hardy, and user-friendly. The tent should also be appropriate for the season and location of your trek.

Sleeping Bags and Mats: Sleep is your body's natural battery recharge. A sleeping bag with suitable insulation and a comfort-adding sleeping mat are your tools for achieving this in the wild. Consider an envelope-style sleeping bag for comfort if you are tall, or a restless sleeper, as this will provide you a greater range of movement.

Energy For Your Backpacking Trip

Keeping your energy levels high is crucial while you’re on a backpacking trip. You want to ensure you’re not too tired to enjoy the beautiful landscapes you will be trekking, so it is important to come equipped with energy sources and equipment!

Water Bottle: When exploring the great outdoors, staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining optimal health and performance. A durable and reliable water bottle ensures that hikers and backpackers have a readily available source of drinking water throughout their journey. A water bottle can also be a reminder for backpackers to prioritise their hydration needs, serving as a visual cue to drink regularly and preventing the adverse effects of dehydration, such as decreased focus, impaired decision-making, and increased vulnerability to environmental challenges.

Camping Stove & Fuel: Food serves as the vital energy source for your adventurous endeavours, providing the energy you need to conquer new horizons. Transforming your picturesque pit stops into rustic kitchens, portable camping stoves become the heart of your outdoor cooking experience. It's important to keep in mind that bringing the right type of fuel for your stove is essential, ensuring seamless and enjoyable meals amidst nature's breathtaking backdrop.

Cookware/Utensils: Space-saving cookware and utensils are your secret weapons for a gourmet wilderness dining experience. Look for durable materials like aluminium or titanium that are easy to clean.

Safety & Guidance: Navigate with Confidence

It is important that your safety is prioritised throughout your backpacking trip, so make sure you have everything you need to protect yourself and get from points A to B without any cause for concern.

First Aid Kits & Insect Repellent: Your safety is paramount, and injuries can strike when least expected. A comprehensive first aid kit is your ally in these situations. Protecting yourself from insects is more than avoiding annoyance; it's a health measure. A potent insect repellent will keep the bugs at bay.

Headlamp: A reliable headlamp is like your guiding star after sundown. It enables you to navigate, cook, and set up camp efficiently, striking a balance between brightness, battery life, and weight.

Navigation Tools: Getting lost can turn an adventure into an ordeal. The absence of A) a charged mobile phone battery or B) a reliable mobile phone signal while venturing into the picturesque hills of the countryside leaves no assurances. Hence, it is advisable to reinforce your digital navigation with a conventional map and compass, while thoroughly planning your route before setting off.

Ready to Pack for Your Next Adventure?

Your backpacking trip's success relies heavily on what you bring along. The key is to pack light, yet adequately, considering your personal needs and trip specifics. Your carefully chosen gear from Highland Industrial Supplies. not only makes your adventure comfortable and safe but also unforgettable.

Come visit us in-store or browse our extensive range online to find everything you need for your next backpacking trip. Embrace the call of the wild with the confidence that you're well-prepared for any adventure that comes your way.