Packing List
This list is provided to help you gather the gear you will need to be a successful pioneer. Because of the weight and space limitations of the handcart design and our attempt to create an authentic pioneer experience, you will be limited in the amount of gear you can bring (17 lbs.). You will need to choose from the items listed here, but please don't bring anything else. We cannot take it with us.
**DON’T FORGET...FIRST DAY OF TREK EAT BREAKFAST AT HOME AND BRING A LUNCH WITH YOU!!**
Please arrive dressed in pioneer clothing. The other set of clothing should be packed in a 5-gallon bucket with all other packing list items, excluding Sleeping Gear. Make wise decisions and pack carefully. The bucket cannot weigh more than 17 lbs.
Printable Packing List here
2023 Trek Packing List
General Packing List
To be worn at the time you arrive at trek
1 set of your pioneer clothing (see the women-specific and men-specific details below)
1 pair sturdy, well broken-in shoes for hiking (do not bring new shoes) (NO CROCS)
1 pair of sturdy socks
1 pair thin, opaque socks to wear under sturdy socks to prevent blisters (OPTIONAL)
A Water Bottle
20 oz. water bottle (not disposable), labeled with your name (REQUIRED)
A Trek Bucket
1 five-gallon bucket with a lid (option to have a gamma (screw top) lid, labeled with your first and last name and ward
Inside your trek bucket (which does not exceed 17 pounds)
Place these items at the top of your bucket so you can get to them as soon as you get to the trail
1 pair leather gloves to protect hands while pulling handcart (REQUIRED)
Prescription medication (including allergy meds), labeled in original pack with clear instructions (to be checked in with medical staff)
Insect repellent
Sunscreen & sunglasses
Personal first-aid kit (band aids and moleskin for foot care)
1 pen or pencil
Place these items at the bottom of your bucket
A rain poncho
1 flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries
Warm pajamas
Personal hygiene items:
lotion, deodorant, soap
pre-moistened wipes for face and hands
toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss
comb or brush
hand sanitizer and tissues
contact lens solution and case (although glasses should be worn instead of contacts if possible as it is difficult to care for contacts in a wilderness setting)
Lip balm
Your extra set of pioneer clothing (see the women-specific and men-specific details below)
2 extra sets of underclothing
3 additional pairs of sturdy socks
1 extra pair thin, opaque socks to wear under sturdy socks to prevent blisters (OPTIONAL)
1 extra pair of shoes (OPTIONAL)
1 garbage bag to hold wet or dirty clothes
Other optional items to consider bringing in your trek bucket
Pocket knife
Harmonica (or other small musical instrument),
Body powder (to prevent chafing),
Recommended
1 small daypack to carry your water bottle, journal, and other small personal items.
Sleeping Gear
Place the following in a heavy-duty garbage bag, labeled with your name and ward
A warm sleeping bag
An old blanket (OPTIONAL)
A small pillow
A warm jacket (it will get cold at night and in the morning)
Women’s Packing List
1 or 2 mid-calf length skirts and 2 blouses OR 1 or 2 long dresses (You will be wearing one and the second one is optional and will be packed in the bucket)
1 bonnet or wide-brimmed hat
1 or 2 pair of knee-length biker shorts to wear under your skirt/dress (You will be wearing one and the second one is optional and will be packed in the bucket)
1 apron (preferably with pockets)
Feminine hygiene supplies (more than you think you’ll need)
Ponytail holders
Men’s Packing List
1 or 2 pairs docker-style pants (no jeans) (You will be wearing one and the second one is optional and will be packed in the bucket)
2 long-sleeved collared shirts (You will be wearing one and one will be packed in the bucket)
1 straw hat or Newsies style cap (NO baseball or camo hats)
Belt & suspenders (OPTIONAL)
Compression shorts (only to be worn under pioneer pants to prevent chafing) (OPTIONAL)