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How to pack a backpack for hiking: tips and a practical packing list

Thursday, 09 April 2026
How to pack a backpack for hiking: tips and a practical packing list

Summer is here and hiking is gaining momentum. If you are planning a one-day hike, a weekend trip, or a multi-day trek and wondering how to pack for hiking, this practical guide will help you prepare your backpack efficiently and comfortably. You will find out what to pack for a hike, how to organize your gear in zones, and which accessories you should definitely bring with you.

Zone packing – how to organize your backpack contents

Proper zone packing allows you to have everything within reach and minimize weight. Heavy items should be placed close to your back, medium-weight items in the middle, and light items on top. This way, your hiking backpack will remain comfortable even on longer routes.
 

Tips:

  • Pack heavy items close to your back, light ones on top
  • Store small items and frequently used gear in front or side pockets
  • Don’t forget easy and quick access to water and a first aid kit

Choosing a hiking backpack – large vs. small, waterproofing

When choosing a hiking backpack, consider the length of your trip and the type of terrain.

  • Small hiking backpack (20–30 l) – ideal for one-day hikes
  • Large hiking backpack (50–70 l) – suitable for multi-day treks
  • A waterproof hiking backpack or a rain cover is essential in rainy conditions

Practical tip: How to attach a sleeping bag to your backpack or how to attach poles to your backpack – use the bottom straps or side loops.

Food and cooking in nature

Ready meals vs. cooking in the field

For longer trips, you can bring ready-made long-life meals from EXPRES MENU, which are quick, tasty, high-quality, and most importantly do not take up much space.

If you plan to cook, don’t forget a compact stove, suitable cookware and enough water. Water filters are also practical, e.g. SURAO.

Backpack Brandit Kampfrucksack Molle 66 l, green
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Brandit larger tactical backpack with MOLLE, lots of pockets, shoe compartment, 66 liter capacity.
BRT219

Backpack Brandit Kampfrucksack Molle 66 l, green

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Butane burner folding SPIDER with box
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Compact and light gas burner suitable for outdoor activities, power up to 1800 W, weight only 135 g.
STR016

Butane burner folding SPIDER with box

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25,90€ 26,32€
Water filter with bottle SURAO Life 2 Go Basic
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Water filter removes up to 99.99% of harmful substances from water, lifetime 1000 l of water.
MF157

Water filter with bottle SURAO Life 2 Go Basic

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64,94€
Lean pieces of pork shoulder in a creamy sauce with fresh mushrooms, softened with cream and butter.
EM026

Pork with Champignons, 2 portion

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Lights, knives and multifunction tools

Lights for your backpack – types and use

When choosing a light for your backpack, it is important to consider size, performance, and intended use. We recommend the following types:

  • Pocket light (e.g. FLASH with ZOOM function) - a small, compact light suitable for versatile use in the field and at camp. The ZOOM function allows you to focus the beam on a specific point or widen the illumination as needed.
  • Professional light (e.g. ULTRA ZOOM ESP) - a more durable and powerful light with longer beam distance. Ideal for demanding conditions and longer expeditions where stronger lighting is needed.
  • Headlamps - a light worn on the head that keeps your hands free. Great for evening activities in the tent, cooking, or moving in the dark.

Tip: For shorter hikes, a pocket light is sufficient; for multi-day treks and movement in inaccessible terrain, we recommend a combination of a headlamp and a powerful light.

Knives and multifunction tools – what to bring

Proper tools can significantly make your stay in nature easier and help in emergency situations. We recommend considering these options:

1. Multifunction tool (e.g. Mil-Tec)

A compact solution that includes basic tools – a knife, pliers, a whistle, and other practical tools. Ideal for common repairs and simple tasks in the field.

2. SURVIVAL SET

A complete set in a compact plastic case, including a knife, light, cutlery, pliers, a whistle, and other equipment. Great for emergency situations or longer stays in nature where you need everything at hand.

Tip: When choosing a knife or multifunction tool, focus on blade quality and material durability. Small but durable tools are more practical for a backpack than large and heavy ones.

Powerful flashlight with a luminous flux of 750lm, suitable for home, travel, camping or tent use.
ST076

LED flashlight 750 lm FLASH

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Compact multifunctional tool with nine functions suitable for everyday carry.
STR023

Multi tool Mil-Tec with case, small

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Waterproof headlamp with luminosity of 100 lumens, duration of 4 hours and light range of 50 m.
ST071

Headlamp MFH COB-LED

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EF169 knife has modern design, 88 mm long blade, liner lock, durable handle, metal clip, weight 94 g
NU118

Knife Elite Force EF 169

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Clothing, footwear and weather protection

  • Spare clothing and footwear
  • Waterproof poncho or raincoat
  • Quality insect repellent
  • Sun protection: hat, sunscreen
  • Suitable footwear depending on terrain

Accessories and safety

Repellent with volume of 100 ml protects against mosquitoes and ticks. Apply to skin, face, clothes.
MF140

Repellent Insect-OUT, 100 ml

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Metal compass with fluorescent markings, magnifier, spirit level, scales in inches and centimeters.
MF082

Metal Compass PRECISION

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First Aid Kit Pentagon Hippokrates, red
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Practical and modern first aid kit compatible with molle system hides up to 20 different aids.
PEN044

First Aid Kit Pentagon Hippokrates, red

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Fire starter for starting a fire even in bad weather, it is resistant to moisture, water and wind.
MF060

Magnesium Fire Starter PROFESSIONAL

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Practical tips

  • Do not overload your backpack – the maximum weight should not exceed 20–25 % of your body weight
  • Use zone packing and accessible pockets
  • Check the weather before your trip and adjust your backpack contents accordingly

Conclusion

Now you know what to pack in your backpack for a trip, whether it’s a one-day hike, a weekend, or a multi-day trek. Check out our selection of hiking backpacks and accessories and get ready for a perfect trip!

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

How to properly pack a backpack for hiking?

Place heavy items as close to your back and in the center of the backpack as possible to keep the weight stable. Less frequently used items belong at the bottom, while frequently used items should be on top or in pockets. Even weight distribution is also important to prevent back pain.

Where to store water during hiking?

Keep water easily accessible at all times – ideally in the side pockets of your backpack or in a hydration pack with a tube. Regular hydration is key, so you should not keep it deep inside your backpack.

What should not be missing in a hiking backpack?

The basics include water, food, spare clothing, a first aid kit, rain protection and navigation (map or phone). Adjust your gear to the length and difficulty of the hike.

How to organize items in a backpack so they are easy to find?

Use smaller organizers or pockets to divide your gear. Sort items by purpose (clothing, food, hygiene) so you can find them quickly without unnecessary unpacking.

How much should a hiking backpack weigh?

Ideally as little as possible, but without compromising safety. For a one-day hike, the weight should not significantly exceed a few kilograms – it depends on your fitness and equipment.

How to pack for hiking depending on the weather?

Always expect weather changes. Even with a good forecast, pack a waterproof layer and warmer clothing, especially for the mountains.

What food is suitable for hiking?

Choose light and energy-rich foods such as nuts, bars, dried fruit or simple sandwiches. It is important that the food does not spoil and is easy to carry.

How to avoid an unnecessarily heavy backpack?

Prepare a list before packing and consider each item. If you probably won’t use it, leave it at home. Minimalism is a big advantage when hiking.

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