Alpengirl Adult Adventure Packing List & Gear Info
Download our printable packing list
General Packing and Gear Info
By packing the multi-functional gear and clothing layers on the packing list, you’ll be comfortable in any weather.
Avoid Bringing Special Items
Items you bring will be used throughout the adventure and will get dirty; avoid bringing special items you don’t want damaged.
Keep Track of Your Gear
You are responsible for keeping track of your personal gear. Alpengirl is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged gear or personal belongings.
Limit Cotton
Limit cotton. It is comfortable and breathable, but it absorbs and retains water, is difficult to dry, and will not keep you very warm if it gets wet. Cotton t-shirts and underwear are fine; heavy cotton clothes are not allowed.
Gear Weight
Always opt for smaller, lighter weight gear and clothing, especially if backpacking occurs during your trip.
Wearing the Right Gear
The most important gear pieces are your hooded rain jacket and worn-in, comfortable hiking boots (brand new hiking boots = blister city!)
Gear Should Not be Cost Prohibitive
Please call Alpengirl if you need to borrow or rent gear.
If you are having a difficult time finding gear in your area for a good price, we suggest purchasing gear from secondhand stores, borrowing from friends, and if Alpengirl has what you need you may borrow it (first come first served). Alpengirl may also have some gear rentals available for backpacks and sleeping bags/pads.
Communicate with Alpengirl
Having the right gear is incredibly important.
If you are unsure about anything on the packing list, please call for clarification. Inadequate gear or clothing upon arrival may require last minute borrowing or renting from Alpengirl, or replacement at a local outdoor store.
Packing Tips
Packing for a trip can be overwhelming! Below are some tips and tricks for getting you and your gear to your adventure.
Don't Waste Space!
When you pack your big backpack for your trip, don’t waste empty space.
- Put your sleeping bag in your compression sack and squeeze it down to a small ball with the compression straps, then shove it in the very bottom of your pack (or outside on the very bottom if your pack is designed that way).
- Then, make a fist and cram every nook from bottom to top with something – no need to fold.
- If you need to strap your sleeping pad to the outside of your pack, secure it so it doesn’t get disconnected from your bag during travel.
Don't Worry About Unused Gear
Don’t worry: participants don’t go backpacking with all of the gear they bring to their trip. Participants will carry a limited and select number of items (sleeping bag, pad, essential clothing, and a portion of tent and food) during the backcountry days of the itinerary.
All extra gear is left behind in the locked vehicle while in the backcountry.
Plane Packing Pointer
If traveling by plane to your trip, it’s a good idea to pack your big backpack in a large soft-sided duffel bag to protect your backpack and its contents (especially important if gear is attached to the outside).
