The Backpack
The backpack is the number one thing to carry into the backcountry because almost all of your gear will either be inside it or strapped to it. Backpacks of this type need to be able to carry 50 pounds or more, but 80 pounds or more is preferable. The backpack should have a belt, adjustable frame and adjustable straps so it can be configured to transfer two-thirds of its weight onto your hips.
Bedding
Bedding is about more than just having the right sleeping bag. You also need either a bed mat or an air mattress to provide insulation from the ground. Fans of programs such as "Man vs. Wild" or "Survivorman" should notice that Bear Gryllis and Les Stroud always lay out a mat of improvised leaves and twigs as insulation, except in tropical conditions, and sometimes even then, too.
Water
Backcountry camping always means treating local water supplies. Just sitting around doing nothing all day requires a half gallon of water which weighs just over four pounds. The water requirements for a backcountry camping trip are such that no one can bring all the necessary gear and all the bottled water required for even a short trip. Either a camping water filter approved by the Environmental Protection Agency for backcountry use, or a carbon filter combined with boiling, iodine tablets or chlorine drops is required.
Tools
A basic kit of cooking utensils, an all-in-one utility tool, a sheath knife, a military-style entrenching tool and a camping stove are good items to have on a backcountry checklist. The all-in-one utility tool is handy, but not a proper knife, which is why you need a sheath knife or large buck knife as well. The entrenching tool is needed for digging latrines. Finally, most U.S. national parks ban campfires, so a camping stove is required to cook meals in the backcountry.
Footwear
Finally, you should not set out into the backcountry with an ordinary pair of hiking boots. Backcountry travel is off-trail and made with heavy loads, so you need boots with good ankle support. These boots should be broken in prior to your first backcountry trip to prevent more blisters than are absolutely necessary. As a guard against blisters, pack mole skins and two pairs of good hiking socks.
