What to Pack for an Overnight Mountain Camping Trip

Why Overnight Camping Changes Everything

There's a special kind of magic that happens when you spend the night on a mountain. Watching the sunset paint the sky from a summit campsite, stargazing without light pollution, waking up above the clouds for sunrise. Day hikes just can't give you that.

But overnight trips need more planning than a quick day hike. Packing the right gear keeps you safe, comfortable, and able to actually enjoy every moment up there.

Shelter and Sleep System

Tent

A lightweight two-person tent is the go-to for mountain camping. Look for one that's waterproof, easy to set up, and light enough to carry on steep trails.

In the Philippines, a three-season tent handles most conditions. If you're new to camping, practice setting it up at home before you head to the mountains. Trust us on this one.

Sleeping Bag or Blanket

Temperatures drop a lot at higher elevations. For mountains above 2,000 meters like Mt. Pulag, you'll want a sleeping bag rated to 5 degrees Celsius. For lower elevations, a lightweight sleeping bag or even a fleece blanket can work.

A sleeping bag liner adds extra warmth and keeps things cleaner too.

Sleeping Pad

Don't skip this. Your sleeping pad insulates you from the cold ground and gives you cushioning on rocky terrain.

Foam pads are affordable and reliable. Inflatable pads are more comfortable but pricier.

Clothing

Layering is the key to staying comfortable across different elevations and changing conditions.

Base Layer

Moisture-wicking shirts and bottoms keep sweat off your skin. Synthetic fabrics or merino wool are your best bet. Avoid cotton since it holds moisture and can leave you dangerously cold at elevation.

Insulation Layer

A fleece jacket or lightweight down jacket keeps you warm at camp and during cold morning starts. Down is lighter and packs smaller, but synthetic insulation holds up better when wet.

Outer Layer

A waterproof and windproof rain jacket is non-negotiable. Mountain weather flips fast, and rain at elevation combined with wind can lead to hypothermia. Rain pants are worth the extra weight on longer trips.

Other Clothing Essentials

• Hiking pants or leggings that dry quickly and hold up on the trail
• Extra socks in wool or synthetic (never cotton)
• Warm hat and gloves if you're going above 2,000 meters
• Buff or bandana for sun protection, warmth, or dust

Food and Water

Water

Bring at least 3 liters for the hike in, plus enough for cooking and drinking at camp. A portable water filter or purification tablets let you refill from streams along the trail, which really cuts down on weight.

Trail Food

Pack calorie-dense snacks that are easy to eat while moving:

• Trail mix with nuts and dried fruit
• Energy bars or granola bars
• Crackers with peanut butter
• Fresh fruit like bananas or apples
• Hard candy for quick energy

Camp Meals

Keep dinner and breakfast simple:

• Instant noodles or rice for a quick, filling meal
• Canned goods like tuna, corned beef, or sardines (just carry out the cans)
• Instant coffee or hot chocolate because a warm drink makes cold mornings so much better
• Bread or tortillas since they're durable and versatile

Cooking Gear

• Portable stove with fuel canister
• Lightweight pot or mess kit
• Utensils (spork or chopsticks)
• Lighter or matches in a waterproof bag
• Small biodegradable soap and sponge for cleanup

Safety and Navigation

First Aid Kit

Your kit should include:

• Adhesive bandages in various sizes
• Gauze pads and medical tape
• Antiseptic wipes
• Pain relievers like ibuprofen or paracetamol
• Antihistamines for allergic reactions
• Blister treatment like moleskin
• Oral rehydration salts
• Personal medications you take regularly

Navigation

Even on well-marked trails, bring a backup navigation method. Download offline maps on your phone before the trip. A portable power bank keeps your phone alive for navigation and emergencies.

Lighting

A reliable headlamp is a must for setting up camp after dark, nighttime bathroom trips, and early morning summit pushes. Bring extra batteries or go with a rechargeable model.

Personal Items and Extras

• Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
• Insect repellent
• Toilet paper and trowel for digging cat holes
• Trash bags for packing out all waste
• Camera to capture the views
• Earplugs if you're a light sleeper
• Small towel (quick-dry microfiber works best)

How to Pack It All

Your Backpack

A 40 to 55 liter backpack fits most overnight gear. Look for one with a hip belt to shift weight to your legs and a rain cover to protect your stuff. Pack heavier items close to your back and centered between your shoulders and hips for the best balance.

Packing Order

• Bottom - Sleeping bag and items you won't need until camp
• Middle - Heavier items like food, water, and cooking gear
• Top - Rain jacket, snacks, first aid kit, and other things you'll grab often
• Hip belt pockets - Phone, snacks, sunscreen
• Outside - Tent and sleeping pad strapped to the outside or top

Your Overnight Adventure Awaits

Packing for an overnight mountain trip gets easier every time you do it. Start with the essentials on this list and adjust your gear over multiple trips. The Peaksy community is a great resource for gear recommendations and finding organized overnight hikes that take the guesswork out of planning your first mountain camping experience.