How to Pack a Backpack
1. What to pack
  1. Water (2 quarts minimum)
  2. First aid kit (including moleskin)
  3. Flashlight (small disposable)
  4. Map of the area including trails
  5. Compass
  6. Sunscreen and lip balm
  7. Poncho (optional)
  8. Signal mirror and whistle
  9. Backpack repair kit it (D rings, O rings, pins, duct tape, etc.)
  10. Toilet paper
  11. Matches in waterproof case
  12. Cook kit (2 pots, plastic spoon, plastic cup, plastic bowl and spork)
  13. Stove and fuel
  14. Water purification (tablets or filter)
  15. Bed roll (foam pad and a sheet or blanket)
  16. Clean clothes (socks, underwear, and shirt)
  17. Pocket knife
  18. Plastic bags
  19. Rope
  20. Hat
  21. Clean up kit (soap, wash cloth, tooth brush, tooth paste, towelettes)
  22. Food
Items that are not needed for the Grand Canyon: Sleeping bag, tent, fire building kit, emergency coins, ax or saw, shovel, tarp

2. How to pack

  1. Do not take any unnecessary items - when in doubt leave it out
  2. Heaviest items go at the top of the pack and close to your back
  3. Some items need fast access (items a through k on the above list)
  4. "Pack by bag" method - clothing, food, small items
  5. Repackage all food
3. Extra hints
  1. Use a pack with a frame (internal or external)
  2. Use a hip belt (transfers weight from shoulders and back to hips and legs). The hip belt should rest on top of the hips.
  3. Use padded shoulder straps
  4. Use a sternum strap
  5. Carry no more than one fifth of your body weight
  6. Inspect your backpack for wear and damage before each trip