One of the most alluring elements of backpacking is its simplicity. Once you’ve loaded up the pack and hit the trail, the only thing ahead of you for the next several hours is walking, slow and steady, till you’re ready for a snack or to set up camp. Then it’s cooking dinner, gazing at the stars, crashing in the comfortable confines of your sleeping bag, and then waking up and hitting repeat. But that presumes, of course, that you’ve got your backcountry backpacking kit dialed.

This round-up covers the gamut, from the big three — your pack, tent, and sleeping system — as well as other gear essentials and apparel recommendations. A few other considerations that fall outside the purview of this article include your food choices and nice add-ons like a pack-friendly camp chair or plastic bottles designed to keep wine fresh for that sunset tipple. As you start to venture into the wild, you’ll understand your need for the “non-essential” essentials, and can start exploring upgrades or additions like a camp pillow (rather than stuffing your extra layers into your sleeping bag sack), a lightweight tarp, or a more sophisticated cook system to let you channel your inner gourmet.

Read more at Trip Savvy.