Guide
Backpacking Gear Checklist: Borrow Instead of Buy
Every trekker's packing list looks the same — and most of the gear sits in a closet for 50 weeks a year. This checklist covers backpacking essentials and shows which items you can borrow from travelers near you on NomadShare instead of buying new.
Sleep & Shelter
- Tent (1–2 person) →
Bulky and rarely used twice — perfect to borrow.
- Sleeping bag →
Match the season instead of buying for one trip.
- Sleeping pad →
Comfort without the hauling cost.
- Hammock →
Great for warm climates and chill stops.
Cooking & Hydration
- Camp stove →
Single-burner stoves go unused 50 weeks/year.
- Cookware set →
Pots, pans, sporks — borrow once, return clean.
- Water filter →
Essential for trekking; rentable from past hikers.
Navigation & Safety
- Headlamp →
Hands-free light for camp and night hikes.
- First-aid kit →
Check supplies before you head out.
- Trekking poles →
Save your knees on long descents.
- Compass / GPS →
Backup for offline maps in remote areas.
Adventure Add-Ons
- Surfboard →
Borrow locally — never fly with one again.
- Snorkel set →
Coastal stops without buying gear.
- Ukulele or guitar →
Hostel evenings, lighter pack.
- Bike →
Explore further than a city tour will take you.
Wearables & Daypack
- Rain jacket →
Climate-dependent — borrow regionally.
- Daypack (20–30L) →
For day hikes when your main bag stays at the hostel.
- Dry bags →
Keeps electronics safe on rainy and beach days.
Ready to lighten your pack?
Find gear hosted by travelers near you and exchange in Flow Points.
Browse nearby gear