The Most Forgotten Camping & Backpacking Gear
You've planned the route, packed the big gear, and triple-checked your snacks, but even seasoned campers forget things; that's why Near Zero created their backpacking bundles. However, even if you think you've got everything back in your bundle or backpack, it's the small, easily overlooked items that often go missing and matter the most.
Here's a list of the most commonly forgotten camping and backpacking essentials — plus how to avoid leaving them behind.
A Reliable Fire Starter (and a Backup)
Everyone remembers the matches… until they don't. Or they bring one lighter that mysteriously disappears into the abyss.
Don't forget:
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Waterproof matches
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A second lighter
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Fire starter cubes or tinder
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A ferro rod for emergencies
A warm meal, or your ability to get warm at all, can depend on this.
Water Treatment Supplies
People pack water bottles. They don't always remember how to refill them safely.
Most forgotten:
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Water purification tablets
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A clean, dedicated scoop container
If your primary filter fails or you hit unexpected dry stretches, having purification backups is non-negotiable.
Extra Layers (Especially Dry Ones)
Even in summer, nights in the mountains can be cold. And if you get wet? Hypothermia can sneak up fast.
Don't forget:
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A dry base layer set
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Lightweight gloves
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A beanie
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A packable windbreaker
These items weigh almost nothing but make a massive difference in comfort.
Headlamp + Extra Batteries
It's shocking how many people forget a light source — or assume their headlamp still has juice from the last trip.
Pro tip: Store your headlamp with the batteries removed or inserted backwards so it can't turn on accidentally in your pack. If you have one of our Near Zero headlamps, charge it before you leave, and you'll never have to worry about those extra batteries!
First Aid Essentials
Most people bring a first aid kit. What they forget is to check it.
Make sure you have:
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Blister care (the #1 most forgotten and most needed!)
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Pain relievers
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Antiseptic wipes
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Tweezers
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Medical tape
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Benadryl for allergic reactions
A tiny kit can solve big problems, that's why Near Zero's will stay safely in your pack so you never forget it!
Repair Kits & Tools
A torn tent or a broken trekking pole can derail a trip if you don't have the right tools to fix it.
Commonly forgotten:
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Duct tape wrapped around a trekking pole
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Tent pole repair sleeve
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Sewing kit
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Multi-tool
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Spare cord or guyline
These tools are what turn a bad situation into a manageable one.
Camp Kitchen Accessories
People remember the stove. The fuel. Even the mug.
But the small kitchen tools often get left behind.
Don't forget:
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A long-handled spoon/spork
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A pot scrubber or a small towel
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Seasoning (you'll thank yourself later)
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A lighter for the stove
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A collapsible bowl or cup
Backcountry meals are more enjoyable when you aren't improvising with sticks. Skip the mini kitchen and get your shovel that you can use to cook something delicious over a fire!
Navigation Backup
Phones die—apps glitch. Screens crack.
Make sure you bring:
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A paper map
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A printed itinerary for emergencies
Digital tools are great — until they aren't.
Sun & Bug Protection
Two things you definitely notice once it's too late.
Most forgotten:
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Sunscreen
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SPF lip balm
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Bug spray
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A tiny bug-net for your face in mosquito country
Don't become a feast for insects.
Trash & Storage Bags
Extra zip bags and a couple of small trash bags are worth their weight in gold—keeping food organized, trash contained, and gear dry.
How to Make Sure You Don't Forget Anything Again
Create a checklist.
Even experienced hikers use one—pilots do too. It works. Near Zero has a reusable, waterproof one you can use over and over again!
Pack 24 hours before you leave.
Packing early gives you time to catch the things you overlooked.
Use modular packing systems.
Stuff sacks or pre-bundled kits (like Near Zero's grab-and-go camping bundles) make it harder to forget anything important.