I have recently started to think about the idea of backpacking. Now when a person hears the word backpacking, two concepts come to mine. Either backpacking through Europe or backpacking through the mountains. I am writing a list of the latter. However, I am not expereinced in the later as much as I am experienced in the former, but I have done lengthy research and I hope to be experienced some day because hiking really is an enjoyable hobby. Here is a beginner's list or guide to what a backpacker should have on a trip through the mountains.

• Water Purification Tablets or Sawyer mini water filter
• Backpack

• Map (protective case/lamenated)
• Compass

• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Headlamp
• Extra batteries
• Runner's belt (to carry phone and lipbalm etc)
• First Aid Kit (blisters, adhesive bandages of various sizes, several gauze pads, adhesive tape, disinfecting ointment, over-the-counter pain medication, pen and paper. Nitrile gloves also deserve consideration.)
• Lighter
• FireStarter (Candidates include dry tinder tucked away in a plastic bag; candles; priming paste; heat “nuggets” (chipped-wood clusters soaked in resin). Even lint trappings from a household clothes dryer can work.) Or one of these cool expensive fire starters from REI

• CampStove (Not necessary if you know how to build up a fire).
• Knife
• Waterproof Container
• Backpacking Tents with footprint

• Sleeping Bag

• Sleeping Pad
• Whistle
• Trekking Poles (Ski Poles)
• Hand Sanitizer
• Bug Spray
• Toothbrush
• Tissues
• Biodegradable soap

• Quick-dry towel
• Trip initierary
• Small Amount of Cash

Food

• Food Compressible and rehydrateable
• WATER WATER WATER (make sure you can carry it though)
• Extra Day's Supply of Food
• Energy Foods
• Energy Beverages
• Meals
• Bear Canister

Clothing

• Wicking T shirt
• Wicking Underwear
• Quick drying pants or shorts

• Rainwear
• Long sleeve shirt (Sun or bugs)
• Fleece jacket
• Hat
• Hiking Boots

• Socks (Wool)
• Gaiters

Others/ optionals

• Reading Material
• Binoculars (light weight)

• Phone
• Camera
• Sanitary Products
• Pre-moistened wipes
• Solar Charger

• Duct tape