Fall can be one of the best seasons for backpacking, with fewer bugs and fewer crowds, but conditions change fast. Nights are colder, days are shorter, and weather can swing. Start from the general backpacking gear list and adjust as below.
What changes in fall
- Colder nights and possible frost
- Less daylight, so more time in the dark
- Greater chance of rain, wind, or early snow in some regions
- Damp ground and condensation
- Hunting seasons in some areas
Check the forecast, including overnight lows and elevation, for your specific route.
Sleep system
Choose a bag or quilt rated at or below the expected low, with some margin. Upgrade your pad’s insulation if it is a summer one; ground cold is a common culprit. A liner or warmer layers to sleep in can add flexibility.
Shelter
A shelter with good weather protection is helpful. Pitch with attention to wind and drainage, and ventilate to reduce condensation. Bring extra stakes or guylines if conditions could be windy. If you use a hammock, you will likely need more insulation underneath; see the hammock backpacking gear list.
Clothing layers
- Base layer top and bottom
- Insulating jacket (down or synthetic)
- Waterproof rain jacket and, if the forecast suggests, rain pants
- Warm hat and gloves
- Extra socks and a dry set to sleep in
- Optional: insulated booties or a buff
Keep a dry layer reserved for camp. Avoid cotton.
Light and navigation
With shorter days, bring a headlamp with spare batteries, and think about a small backup light. Plan your route (trip-planning basics) so you are not hiking in the dark more than expected, and carry offline maps. Cold can reduce battery life, so keep electronics warm.
Kitchen and water
Hot meals and drinks help. Canister stoves can perform worse in cold conditions, so keep the canister warm. Water can freeze overnight, and some filters can be damaged by freezing, so keep them close to you at night.
Safety considerations
- Learn the signs of hypothermia and when to turn back
- Tell someone your plan and expected return time
- Wear blaze orange if hiking in areas where hunting is allowed
- Carry emergency shelter and extra food
Quick fall checklist
Warmer bag, insulated pad, extra layers, hat and gloves, headlamp plus spares, rain gear, extra food, and fuel. For more ideas on choosing equipment, see best gear for backpacking.