When you’re packing for a trip—whether it’s your first overnight or your tenth backcountry run—it’s easy to overthink gear. Or underthink it. Or just throw it all in the truck and hope for the best.

But with time (and more than a few packing regrets), you start to see what gear actually matters. What earns its space. What shows up every trip, gets used, and doesn’t let you down. In the end, this isn’t about having the most stuff—it’s about having the right stuff.

So here’s a guide to the essentials. The kind of gear you pack no matter where you’re headed, because it always pulls its weight.

Good gear doesn’t just come along for the ride—it’s what keeps the trip from unraveling

1. The Right Pack or Duffel

Whether you’re hiking in or loading into a rig, your pack sets the tone. Look for:

• Reinforced seams
• Water resistance
• Smart pocket layout

Bonus tip: Think less about liters and more about what you actually carry. Extra space invites clutter.

2. Reliable Sleep System

Good sleep makes everything better. At minimum, you need:

• Sleeping bag (matched to temps)
• Pad or mattress
• Pillow (yes, even a small one)

For overlanders or car campers, a quality cot or rooftop tent system can take things up a level—if it’s easy to set up and tear down.

3. Cook Gear That’s Simple and Durable

You don’t need a full kitchen. But you do need a system that works:

• Compact stove or burner
• One pan, one pot, one solid knife
• Lighter, plus backup ignition

At that point, if it takes 10 minutes to find your spatula, it’s probably time to rethink your camp box. And if you hate cleanup (who doesn’t?), check out our post on camp coffee without the mess.

4. Navigation & Light

Don’t count on your phone. Bring:

• GPS device or app with offline maps
• Headlamp with extra batteries
• Paper map and compass (for backup, not nostalgia)

Night comes fast. Know where you are before it does.

5. Emergency & Repair Kit

A good trip doesn’t need drama. But it should be ready for it:

• First aid kit (a real one)
• Duct tape, zip ties, multitool
• Spare parts for anything mechanical

If you’re heading off-grid, toss in a personal locator beacon or sat messenger. You’ll never regret having one—you might regret not.

6. Water & Waste Setup

Simple is good:

• One big water jug (or hydration system)
• Collapsible sink or basin
• Trash bags, wet wipes, and a small trowel

And yes, bring toilet paper. In its own zip bag. You know why.

Pack What You’ll Use. Leave What You Won’t.

Every trip teaches you something. Maybe it’s that you didn’t need the camp shower. Maybe it’s that a dry bag is worth its weight. The point is to refine, not perfect.

So start with this list. Adjust for the season. Pay attention to what you touch daily. And next time? Pack even lighter—and smarter.

Still figuring out your full loadout? Don’t miss our Ultimate Overland Checklist—it’s packed with field-tested gear we actually use.