Checklist to tick off and helpful packing tips for your next hiking trip
The hiking trip is finally planned, hotels have been booked and the anticipation is growing. But before you can really set off, there is still one big challenge: packing. What do I absolutely have to take with me? What should I not forget under any circumstances? What should I leave at home so that my rucksack isn’t quite so heavy? And how do I load it sensibly?
Our practical packing list for your hiking rucksack will help you keep track of everything. Tip: You can download the packing list at the end of the blog article. You can tick it off digitally or print out the list and pack it item by item — so you don’t forget anything!
With or without luggage transfer?
When hiking, the packing list depends heavily on whether you have booked with or without luggage transfer. If you carry all your luggage yourself, the basic rule is: as little as possible, as much as necessary. As a guideline, it is recommended that you carry a maximum of 20% of your own body weight on your back, and no more than 10% for children. Personal fitness, health and the comfort of the rucksack are also decisive factors.
On Feuer und Eis tours, you can do without heavy trekking equipment. Thanks to comfortable accommodation, you don’t need a tent or sleeping bag. Towels and small toiletries are also provided for you in your room. For even more comfort and the freedom of up to 20 kg of luggage, we recommend booking with luggage transport. This means you don’t have to weigh every T‑shirt and can even take an extra outfit or a book with you for the evening.
Pack correctly: heavy items at the bottom, light items at the top
The right packing technique is at least as important as the weight of the backpack. Well thought-out organization is easy on the back and ensures optimum balance.
The most important basic rules:
- Heavy objects should be carried close to the back
- Medium-weight items can be stored in the lower part and on the sides of the backpack
- Light comes to the top
- Everything you need several times a day (e.g. snacks, the hiking map, etc.) should be easily accessible
Packing list for the daypack
But what exactly do you really need for hiking? Here is our clear packing list for the daypack:
- Valid identity card or passport (especially for cross-border tours)
- Wallet with credit cards for the hotel and cash for on the go (you often can’t pay by card on mountain pastures)
- Cell phone and charger, power bank if necessary
- Telescopic walking poles
- Sunglasses
- Sun and insect repellent
- Headgear as sun protection
- A change of clothes, e.g. a spare T‑shirt or a light rain jacket
- Reusable drinking bottle or, with appropriate device in the backpack, drinking bladder
- Food box or lunch box
- First aid kit incl. blister plaster, whistle for emergency signal if necessary
- Handkerchiefs, toilet paper or wet wipes
- Sealable plastic bag for waste (do not leave any waste in the countryside!)
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Pocket knife
- Mobile GPS device or tour app (e.g. Komoot, Outdooractive) on your smartphone
- Travel documents from Feuer und Eis: stage description and hotel list
Note: This packing list is a recommendation and does not claim to be exhaustive. You may need additional items, such as special medication, a camera, etc.
Finding the right daypack
If your backpack is packed incorrectly or is too heavy, not only will your back suffer, but so will your entire travel experience. Choosing the right model is therefore crucial.
Our recommendations for a daypack:
- Volume: approx. 20 to 35 liters
- Low weight for high wearing comfort
- Ergonomic carrying system with padded shoulder straps
- Good ventilation at the back for
- Waist and chest strap for a good fit
- Weatherproof or integrated rain cover
- Holder for water bottles or device for a hydration bladder (compartment, hose opening and holder)
- Large main compartment with plenty of space for your luggage
- Easily accessible storage compartments for important items
Suitable models are, for example, Futura 30 SL / Futura 32 or Trail 28 SL / Trail 30 from deuter. To find the best backpack for your body size, stature and hiking trip, we recommend consulting a specialist sports/outdoor store.
Download packing list
To make sure you are well prepared, we provide you with our packing list for the daypack as a practical checklist to download. This way you can tick off one thing after another when packing and make sure you don’t forget anything.
Simply download, save and print out as required. Good luck with your packing and have fun on your hiking trip!