Backpacking Checklists
Having backpacking checklists is a good idea to keep you organized before you head off on the trail. There are so many different little things that you will be taking into the backcountry that it can be very easy to overlook some of the small, but important items, and even the larger very important ones. Here are some SAMPLE Backpacking Checklists that you can download and print for easy reference: Ten Essentials
Imagine this scenario: You have hiked 10 miles from the trail head to arrive at the most beautiful campsite locations you have ever been. You get camp set up, things are going great. Awwww! You forgot to pack the tent stakes, that's OK, you have a free standing tent and the weather forecast is calm for the next few days, no biggie. You begin to prepare your evening meal as the sun begins to set over the high, rocky ridge in front of you. You are having some home made, super sloppy chili that you packed in with Tupperware for the first night. It's almost ready, just needs a stir...."Where's my #*^@%$! SPOON!" You are rummaging through your gear that you've spread out to every corner of your campsite...NO SPOON! As your chili begins to boil over the sun is completing its descent below the ridge. 
You need your headlamp to continue your search and clean up the chili that is now all over the ground in the middle of your site (Bears really like chili I hear). Oh no! "where's my headlamp"? You've been going through all your gear for a half hour now and you didn't see your headlamp anywhere (at least you remembered the extra batteries). Thankfully you have your car keys in your pocket and though you did not intend to bring an emergency light your key chain has an LED that saves you just as the darkest, moonless night of your life descends on your camp. You need a checklist. You can avoid experiences like these simply by using a checklist making sure you are prepared. Once your out there it is a long walk back to the car to retrieve your forgotten items. Backpacking Checklists work, use one and save yourself the headache.
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