Free Backpacking Course by Hilltop Packs

Free Backpacking Course by Hilltop Packs

Everything You Need to Know to Get Started on the Trail. No fluff, no sales, just the good stuff to get you going.

Welcome to the Trail

Hey there, and welcome! I'm Ben McMillen, the founder of Hilltop Packs. Back in 2019, I stitched together a goofy bear-printed food bag in my basement and shared it online. What I didn’t expect was how many of you would resonate with the idea of handmade, ultralight, custom hiking gear.

That moment kicked off the journey of Hilltop Packs—and if you're reading this, you’re likely about to kick off a journey of your own. This guide is for beginners who want to get outside, explore the backcountry, and feel prepared doing it. No gatekeeping, no jargon, and no pressure to spend a fortune on gear. Let’s get you ready to hit the trail!

1. The Backpacking Mindset

Backpacking isn’t just walking with a heavy pack. It’s about self-reliance, slowing down, and earning your views. You’ll get dirty. You’ll get tired. And you’ll love it.

You don’t need to be an ultra-athlete. You just need the willingness to learn, fail a little, and keep going. Start small and build from there. The trail teaches you if you let it.

2. The 10 Essentials

These are must-haves for safety and comfort. Don’t skimp. Before you do anything else, start here.

  1. Navigation (map, compass, GPS)

  2. Headlamp (with extra batteries)

  3. Sun protection (sunglasses, sunscreen, UPF clothing)

  4. First aid kit

  5. Knife or multitool

  6. Fire (lighter, waterproof matches)

  7. Shelter (tent, tarp, bivy—even for day hikes)

  8. Extra food

  9. Extra water (and a filter)

  10. Extra clothing

At Hilltop Packs, we make ultralight gear like food bags, stuff sacks, and dry bags to keep your essentials organized and dry.

3. Gear You Actually Need (Beginner Edition)

You don’t need the fanciest stuff to get started. Here’s a practical list:

  • Backpack (40–60L)

  • Tent or shelter (under 3lbs)

  • Sleeping bag or quilt (we like quilts)

  • Sleeping pad

  • Stove + pot + utensil (750ml pot is a good start)

  • Water filter (Sawyer squeeze is our favorite)

  • Clothes (layers, rain gear)

  • Food +food storage (food bag for hanging or bear canister)

  • First aid kit. Keep it simple but usable

  • Headlamp

Start with borrowed gear or secondhand if needed. Upgrade over time as you figure out what works for you.

4. Packing Your Pack

There are different ways of thinking but this is what we do.

  • Bottom: tent stuffed into the bottom of the pack.

  • Middle: pack liner with pillow, quilt, clothes.

  • Upper Middle: Food bag

  • Top: First aid, hygiene kit, electronics kit

  • Outside: Toiletry kit, Water filtration, rain gear, tent poles (if needed)

Weight balance matters. Heavier stuff goes close to your back and centered.

Pro Tip: Use color-coded or labeled stuff sacks and dry bags to keep it all organized.

5. Planning Your First Trip

  • Choose a trail under 10 miles total

  • Check weather and terrain

  • Leave a trip plan with a friend

  • Start early in the day

  • Expect to go slower than you think

Apps like AllTrails and Gaia GPS help with planning. Avoid biting off more than you can chew—confidence comes with experience.

6. Food, Water, and Pooping in the Woods

  • Bring about 2,500–3,000 calories per day

  • Dehydrated meals, tortillas, nut butters, jerky = trail gold

  • Always carry a water filter (we love Sawyer or Katadyn)

  • Drink more than you think you need. Pro tip: Drink up at every water source, then top off your bottles.

Bathroom Basics:

  • Dig a 6–8 inch cathole, 200 feet from water

  • Use a trowel

  • Use hand sanitizer or wash your hands

7. Trail Tips & Common Mistakes

  • Don’t overpack "just in case" items

  • Break in shoes before a trip

  • Eat and drink more than you think

  • Don’t forget to stretch

  • Use sun protection even on cloudy days

We wrote a whole blog post on “50 Beginner Backpacking Mistakes to Avoid” — check that out on our website!

8. Backpacking Checklist

Print this page or take a screenshot before you go!

9. Final Thoughts + Join Our Community

You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to start. Backpacking is a skill, not a personality trait. You’ll learn, adapt, and figure out what works for you.

If this guide helped, check out our full line of ultralight gear at hilltoppacks.live and follow us on YouTube for beginner-friendly tips and videos.

Happy trails!

– Ben and the Hilltop Packs Team