What to Bring for Your Backpacking Trip

Please do not bring any more than we have indicated unless you contact us first. You will enjoy a light pack. When choosing an item, always consider its weight. Please take your time when choosing and purchasing your clothing and equipment - it is important for the comfort and enjoyment of your trip. Don’t hesitate to call if you have any questions. Any cotton or excess clothing and equipment you bring to the Banff area should be left in in your hotel storage. Expect weather to be variable. We have seen lows of -5C and highs of 30C.  Some trips are warmer than others. It is often windy, but sometimes calm. It is usually dry, but we have experienced both rain and snow for numerous consecutive days. The single most important consideration for your clothing is the fabric. Do not bring any cotton clothing any further than Banff. Wicking layers (underwear) should be Capilene, wool, silk or similar. Insulating layers (jackets, pants) should be fleece, wool, pile or similar. Outer layers (wind and rain jackets/pants) should be nylon of a waterproof breathable. If you are not sure what type of fabric a particular clothing item is made of, check the label.

CLOTHING LIST

You will need to bring all of (and no more than) the following clothing items:

  • 2 long underwear shirts (light to mid weight Capilene, wool or similar)

  • 1 short sleeve shirt (light to mid weight Capilene, wool or similar)

  • 1 insulating jacket (down jacket)

  • 1 Rain jacket/gore-tex shell with hood (make sure it fits over your down jacket)

  • 1 or 2 long underwear bottoms (light to mid weight Capilene, wool or similar)

  • 1 quick dry hiking pant

  • 1 Wind/rain pant

  • 2 pairs of new hiking socks (see what you prefer: light or medium weight sock)

  • Hiking boot (broken in with good soles). Try your orthotics in your boots if you normally wear them.

  • light camping shoe…crocs are nice (* optional!)

  • Winter hat, mitts and neck buff/scarf

  • Sun hat

EQUIPMENT LIST:

Hike Banff will provide group equipment such as emergency communications, bear safety items, tents, kitchen, stoves, tarp and first aid kit. Please let us know if you would prefer to bring your own tent, or want to rent a sleeping bag and sleeping pad.

  • 1 down sleeping bag ( 3 season, rated to 0° C)

  • 1 inflatable thermorest

  • I backpack, 55 liter min, 65 liter ideal

  • Sil rain cover for pack

  • 3 large garbage bags to line inside of stuff sacks to keep your gear dry

  • 1 headlight

  • Sunglasses

  • Sunscreen and lip block

  • 1 wide mouth water bottle

  • 1 lightweight bowl

  • 1 insulated light mug

  • 1 fork and 1 spoon

  • 1 small roll of toilet paper in ziplock bag

  • 1 disposable lighter

  • 1 small toiletry kit: small biodegradable soap, small toothpaste, small toothbrush, small dental floss, small comb, contact lense supplies and feminine hygiene products if applicable…trial or travel sizes of various products are great!

  • 1 small first aid kit (blister supplies)

  • 3 meters (10 feet) of parachute cord

  • 1 extra medications

  • 1 insect repellent

  • Your ID and valuables from your wallet in a ziplock

OPTIONAL:

The following items are optional:

  • Camera, charged batteries

  • Small paperback

  • Journal and pencil

  • Collapsible chair

  • Bandana

  • Extra snacks

  • 1 liter platypus of your favourite spirits