Skip to content
Grand Canyon backcountry permit

GC Backcountry Gear Checklist

What to carry on GC Backcountry, and why. 10 more are worth the pack space.

10Total Items
10To bring

What to bring on GC Backcountry

Specific to this permit, not a generic camping list.

  • Bring

    Water, plus electrolyte replacement

    NPS warns hikers can lose one to two quarts an hour to sweat

  • Bring

    Electrolyte supplements

    hyponatremia is a serious risk

  • Bring

    Headlamp for early starts/late finishes

  • Bring

    Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support

  • Bring

    Sun protection

    hat, sunscreen, sun shirt

  • Bring

    Trekking poles for steep descents and ascents

  • Bring

    Water filter as backup

    creek water at Bright Angel

  • Bring

    Lightweight camp shoes for campground

  • Bring

    Warm layers for cold canyon bottom nights

  • Bring

    Gaiters for loose trail sections

11 people can go on one permit. Split this list between them so nobody carries two stoves.

Build a shared list

General backcountry gear

Kit we recommend for backcountry trips in general. This is not a checklist specific to GC Backcountry — the Grand Canyon National Park rules for this permit are above.

🎒
Recommended
Wild Ideas

Bearikade Weekender

Ultralight carbon fiber bear canister. IGBC certified.

1 lb 15 ozultralightcarbon-fiber
$325
🎒
Recommended
Katadyn

BeFree 1L

Ultralight collapsible filter system.

2 ozultralightfast-flow
$44.95
🎒
Recommended
BearVault

BV500 Bear Vault

The most popular bear canister for Sierra backpacking. Fits 7 days of food.

2 lbs 9 oz7-day capacityapproved
$89.95
🎒
Recommended
Black Diamond

Distance Carbon Z

Lightweight folding carbon poles.

1 lb 1 ozcarbonfolding
$169.95
🎒
Recommended
Sawyer

Sawyer Squeeze

The most popular water filter for backpacking.

3 ozpopularreliable
$37.95

Gear Tips for GC Backcountry

💡 Pro Tips

  • •Weigh your pack before you go. A lighter pack makes for a happier hike.
  • •Rent expensive gear if you are trying a new activity for the first time.
  • •Test all new gear at home before hitting the trail.
  • •Check current regulations as some items may be required seasonally.

Affiliate Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. When you purchase gear through these links, PermitSnag earns a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we genuinely believe in. This helps us keep the lights on and continue building tools to help you get into the backcountry.