GearDeer field notes
Practical guides for lighter, better-planned days out.
Straightforward help for choosing your kit, getting your pack weight in perspective, and making a trip plan that works once you leave the car park.
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Planning
Planning / 7 min readHow to Plan a Backpacking TripPlan a backpacking trip from route research to food, water, gear, and a practical pre-departure check.Read the guide Planning / 7 min readHow to Plan a Multi-Day Hiking TripPlan a multi-day hike by checking route distance, elevation, overnight stops, weather, equipment, food, water, and emergencies.Read the guide
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Packing
Packing / 8 min readThe Complete Backpacking Packing ListA practical backpacking packing list organized by function, with advice on tailoring it to your route and conditions.Read the guide Packing / 7 min read3-Day Backpacking Packing ListA concrete three-day, two-night backpacking list with reminders to adapt it for weather, terrain, season, and water access.Read the guide
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Pack weight
Pack weight / 7 min readHow Much Should Your Backpack Weigh?Understand what a backpack weighs on the trail, how base weight differs from total weight, and how to assess your own load.Read the guide Pack weight / 6 min readWhat Is Base Weight in Backpacking?Learn what backpacking base weight includes, what it leaves out, and how to calculate it consistently.Read the guide Pack weight / 6 min readBackpack Weight CalculatorA practical method for calculating base weight, consumables, and the starting pack load with consistent units.Read the guide Pack weight / 7 min readHow to Reduce Backpack WeightReduce unnecessary backpack weight through measurement and thoughtful choices without removing essential safety equipment.Read the guide
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Food
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Getting started
Want to put your numbers together?
Estimate base weight and consumables with our free calculator.