Not sure what to bring for a fastpacking adventure? It can be hard to find the right gear list. We’ve got you! Here you’ll find a list with all the gear you need for your next FKT attempt or fastpacking adventure, short and long. Whether you’re a speedy hiker or want to run the trails: “light is right.” This gear list leans more to an ultralight gear list, but everything is even smaller because you need enough space to run and hike fast with a smaller pack. If you’re seeking ultralight gear for a hike, consider our thru-hiking gear list. This page focuses on the necessary items to complete your fastpacking adventure safely. Add more specific items that are important for the trail you choose.
To make your next fastpacking adventure more comfy, bring some items that are not essential but make hiking more enjoyable for you. Consider items that you won’t just during the hike but also for the evening in the mountain hut, hostel, or tent. You can think of an e-reader, journal, earplugs, or something else. Make it more fun!
Best store for your fastpacking gear
Find all outdoor gear for your next fastpacking trail whether it’s the Tour du Mont Blanc or the West Highland Way, this is the most popular store for your gear.
You’ll find the full gear list if you scroll down a bit more. We’ve outlined a few items that are the most important for your fastpacking trail. If you click on the links you’ll be redirected to the brands we recommend and our most trusted outdoor gear shops where you can buy gear.
Most important items
These are essentials for your next long-distance trail. It’s not much, but each item is necessary. Choose always to invest in the right quality gear when you have the possibility. It’s more sustainable and keeps you safe on your trails.
Hiking shoes – sturdy & comfy with a good grip
Backpack – 15-40 liters
Rainwear – preferably a lightweight hardshell jacket
Clothing – layers & socks
Food – energy bars, nuts & chocolate, for example
Water bottle or bag – carry at least 1.5L with you
First aid kit – for emergencies
Hiking poles – to support your knees
Power bank – when there are no outlets nearby
Headlamp – for the late evenings
Trash bag – Leave No Trace
Sun protection – sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat
GPS device – for navigation
Top brands for your gear
Hiking shoes
Good hiking shoes provide comfort, grip, and protection against rugged terrains, ensuring safety during your long-distance trails.
Clothing: T-shirt, fleece jacket, down jacket, shorts, long pants, base layers (an underlayer, for example, of merino wool), underwear, and hiking socks
Rainwear: (hardshell) jacket and pants
Quick-drying towel
Hiking poles
Water bottle or sack
Cap, sunglasses, and sunscreen
Power bank
Water (at least 1.5 liters)
Water filter
Food: energy-rich food (nuts, chocolate, energy bars, muesli balls, wraps)
First aid kit with an emergency blanket
Roll with small garbage bags
Headlamp
Gloves & hat (for colder conditions & high elevations)
Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo etc.)
Personal items (mobile, passport, cash etc.)
Pocket knife
For navigation
GPS watch
Map of the area
Navigation app on your mobile (Alltrails, Komoot, Hiiker, Outdooractive)
For camping
Lightweight tent or bivi with a footprint (groundsheet)
Sleeping bag
Sleeping pad
Inflatable pillow
Cooking gear (stove, pan, spork, lighter)
Freeze-dried meals
Water filter or purification tablets
Sitting pad
As for every gear list, add specific items that are important for the trail you choose and the circumstances you’re hiking in. Think of insect-repellent, crampons, ice axes, microspikes, and other specific hiking gear to ensure your safety. If you’re hiking from hut to hut, view our extensive hut-to-hut hiking gear list here.
Best store for your fastpacking gear
Find all outdoor gear for your next fastpacking trail whether it’s the Tour du Mont Blanc or the West Highland Way, this is the most popular store for your gear.