Everything Women Backpacking Should Pack & Know

Ready to hit the trail? Breathtaking trails and views await you! Women backpacking (especially beginners) should choose well-traveled trails and grow to learn what hiking/backpacking gear is best through trial and error. In this guide, you’ll learn all about the essential gear, tips, and more about backpacking as a woman: solo or in groups!

Women backpacking will have to add a few gender-specific items (like women’s hiking boots, a pee cup, or a menstrual cup). If you’re heading into the backcountry or want some extra security backpacking, having items like safety whistles and bear spray as an extra precaution can be a good idea.

Start by checking out our general backpacking checklist for a quick and easy, at-a-glance view of the absolute essentials. Here are some additional items you may consider adding to your pack:

As a woman backpacking, consider loose-fitting pants or leggings. Stick with what feels best for you. Always have a spare set of clothes and rainwear on hand to beat any unexpected rainfall.

• Layer up with base layers to keep cozy.

• Step confidently with the right hiking boots and socks.

The weather will ultimately be what helps you decide on what to wear backpacking. On days where cloud coverage is sparse, wear UPF/protective clothing. On hotter days, we recommend wearing certain moisture-wicking fabrics.

Don't let a lack of sunscreen or bug spray shorten your backpacking adventure. Apply them generously to keep those mosquitoes at bay! Don't forget to pack essential accessories like sunglasses, a hat, and gloves.

Just as you wouldn't leave home without your ID — the same goes for backpacking. Carry any necessary items for both short and long hikes like your trail permit, ID, cash, phone, camera, and spare batteries. Beyond these items, you’ll of course need basic gear like an outdoor backpack and trekking poles.

Sleeping beneath the stars is much more enjoyable with a comfy sleeping pad, sleeping bag, tent, and mosquito net. But since space is limited to what you can haul on your shoulders, you’ll need to think strategically and pick up backpacking-specific gear.

• A headlamp is a hands-free essential for women backpacking during pitch-black nights.

• A lantern can be an essential light source for more robust group camp setups.

• A flashlight is a must-have for navigating and safety during dark hours.

Consider menstrual cups as a convenient, reusable option. Period underwear or pads are also good alternatives.

• Pack a kit with wipes, period products, and bags for sanitary and convenient disposal.

• Keep pain relievers at hand to manage cramps and ensure a smoother backpacking experience.

When nature calls, you need to have a plan in place! If there is no porta potty in sight then you need to use the forest.

• Pack toilet paper to avoid mistakenly using harmful plants or opt for a pee rag.

• Bring body/face wipes for a quick refresh when you feel you need them.

• Use a lightweight or foldable shovel to bury waste and hand sanitizer for clean hands.

All backpackers (not just women backpacking) need to prioritize safety precautions. When you go backpacking in the backcountry, make sure you bring these items with you for self-defense or if you’re in need of emergency help. They’re useful to have in worst-case scenarios.

• Always pack a safety whistle. Remember, three whistles are a universal sign of help.

• Consider pepper spray to have on hand should you need to use it in emergency situations to protect yourself.

Staying hydrated and fed on the trail is key. To tackle those trails with vigor, fuel up with easy snacks, freeze-dried meals, and power bars. Planning to cook? Don't forget your cooking gear and fire-starting essentials.

For women backpacking solo out there, it's not just about getting your legs and core ready for the trip. Learn how to get yourself into peak mental and physical condition with these top two tips:

• 1: Condition your body with the right cardio and resistance regimen

• 2: Practice improving your self-reliance + any skills you’ll have to master before you head out

Imagine not just hiking for hours — but also doing it while carrying a 40 lb backpack! Give yourself 4-6 weeks to prepare and train before you depart. Start by hitting local trails with some gear on your back. Gradually build up that endurance and stamina.

When you’re alone in the wilderness, you have no one to rely on but yourself. While the alone time may be peaceful, anticipate moments when you’ll miss your regular routines, cell service, and/or other modern conveniences!

Staying alert is incredibly important for every backpacker. Strange characters might show up on any trail you trek. A stray animal might linger near it, too.

Learn to sharpen and trust your gut or instincts. No matter if you’re departing on a solo or group backpacking trip, keeping these tips in your back pocket can mean all the difference!

Every backpacker should learn to use their intuition and how to be aware of their surroundings. Any time you feel unsafe or have a lack of confidence, don’t risk it!

• If you’re presented with a landscape or feature you’re unsure whether you can safely take, look for an alternative route.

• You're not obligated to answer every question thrown your way (like whether you’re alone or where you’re headed).

• If someone gives you iffy vibes, it's okay to keep things vague or just move along.

Carrying self-defense tools on your body may help take the edge off traveling solo. Be sure to keep any weapons within easy reach. Always prioritize safety, and know your gear.

• Pepper spray or a trusty self-defense knife can also be handy.

• If you're licensed and trained, packing a concealed carry might give you that extra peace of mind. Always know the local laws of your desired destination before you head out.

Learn what type of animals frequent the trails you plan on using. It's not uncommon to cross paths with bears, snakes, or bobcats. Carry bear pepper spray with you when backpacking in bear territory. You might also need a bear bag and rope for food storage.

Slipping on a rock can happen any time or day when you least expect it. Be ready to wrap up that sprained ankle like a pro. Pack a first aid kit. It can come in handy for you or someone else in a pinch.

When you’re in the middle of the forest, ‘up’ can look like ‘down’ and vice versa. Avoid getting lost in the woods. Learn how to read your map and compass.

• Brush up on your compass and map-reading skills.

• Get to know your route like the back of your hand.

• If tech's more your vibe, a GPS watch is a total lifesaver.

Whether you’re on the trail or trekking through the backcountry, drink plenty of water. Hydration isn’t something you should underestimate — ever. Take frequent sips of water during your trip so you stay hydrated. Always pack a water purification system for a backup water supply and rock that hydration pack.

Established sites are typically well-maintained. They may even have an area to bathe and a convenience store on-site. Research sites ahead of time to choose the one that will best fit your needs!

Use the buddy system by making sure you tell a friend all about your hiking plans. Don’t leave out any details! It’s important to choose someone trustworthy and reliable should any emergencies pop up.

• Tell a friend where you are going, when you are leaving, and when you’ll be back. If possible, schedule frequent updates or check-ins with this person.

• Choose someone who is willing to call for help if you’ve lost contact with them.

• Pack Responsibly: Pack it in and pack it out! That means everything, even your toilet paper. If you brought it with you, it's your responsibility to take it back out.

• Waste Management: Bury any human waste at least 6-8 inches deep. This includes blood! Keep trails pristine for both you and future hikers.

• Respect Nature: Refrain from graffitiing any rocks or monuments. Leave nature untouched and don’t bring any rocks back home with you.

• Fire Safety: Keep your fires small, and ensure they're fully extinguished before leaving camp. Properly spread out the ashes to ensure no trace is left behind.

• Wildlife Etiquette: Wildlife is best admired from a distance. Don’t try to touch or feed animals. Never provoke animals either!

Hearing the tempting call of the wild? Get ready to don your outdoor backpack and hiking boots and set out onto a trail. Prepare for your next backpacking adventure by stocking up on all the hiking gear you need from Academy. Let your epic backpacking journey begin!