Stealth camping can be a thrilling and adventurous way to experience the outdoors, but it requires careful planning and preparation. One of the most important aspects of successful stealth camping is having the right gear, and a good stealth camping bag is essential for carrying everything you need while staying low-key and unobtrusive.
A stealth camping bag is different from a traditional backpack because it is designed to be lightweight, compact, and easy to carry, while also blending in with the surroundings. Here are some features to look for when choosing a stealth camping bag:
- Size and Capacity: A good stealth camping bag should be compact and lightweight, but still be able to hold all the essential gear you need for a night or two in the wilderness. Look for a bag with a capacity of around 30-40 liters, which should be enough to carry a small tent or bivy sack, sleeping bag, cooking supplies, and other essentials.
- Color and Design: Choose a bag with a neutral color, such as black or dark green, to blend in with the surroundings and avoid standing out. Avoid bright colors or patterns that could attract attention or make you look like a traditional backpacker.
- Material and Durability: Look for a bag made from durable materials, such as ripstop nylon or Cordura, that can withstand wear and tear from rough terrain and harsh weather conditions. The bag should also be waterproof or at least water-resistant to protect your gear from rain or other moisture.
- Comfort and Fit: Make sure the bag fits comfortably on your back and is adjustable to accommodate different body types. A padded back panel and straps can help distribute the weight of the bag and reduce fatigue during long hikes.
- Accessibility and Organization: Choose a bag with multiple compartments and pockets to help you stay organized and access your gear easily. Look for features such as external pockets for water bottles or quick-access items, as well as internal pockets for smaller items like phones, wallets, and keys.
Ultimately, a good stealth camping bag should be both functional and inconspicuous. It should allow you to carry everything you need for a night or two in the wilderness, while also blending in with your surroundings and keeping a low profile. By choosing the right bag and packing smartly, you can enjoy the freedom and adventure of stealth camping while staying safe and comfortable.
Weight is an important factor when stealth camping. A person on average can only carry up to 20% of their body weight so a 200 lb person could carry up to 40 lbs. However, a person in fairly good shape could carry more and with practice, could carry over 35% of their body weight or 70 lbs for a 200 lb person.
This pack has a base weight of 20.8 lbs. total weight of 29.3 lbs. with four packs of freeze-dried food and both water containers full (almost 1 gallon).
Mardingtop 50L/60LMolle Hiking Internal Frame Backpacks with Rain Cover
The pack I use is the Mardingtop 60L Molle Hiking Internal Frame Backpacks with Rain Cover. Modular lightweight load carrying equipment cover all around the pack, you can hang your sleeping bag, sleeping mat, hammock, tent or other camping gear.
Patch Area for nametape and flag patches.
Hiking Pole Attachment can hold hiking poles, ice ax or selfie stick.
A zipped pocket on the top of the pack, perfect for your rain cover (included).
Hydration System Compatible. The elastic compartment that is also suitable for a 15.6″ laptop and big enough for a 2.5 Liters hydration bladder or other items that require quick access.
Product Parameters Fabric:600D Polyester
Click here for the best available price on the Mardingtop 60L Molle Hiking Internal Frame Backpack on Amazon.
4.49 lbs
PACKING LIST
Stealth camping, also known as wild camping or stealth camping, is a practice of camping in areas that are not designated campsites or campgrounds. It is often done by hikers, backpackers, and other outdoor enthusiasts who want to experience the beauty of nature without the restrictions and crowds of established camping sites. However, stealth camping requires careful planning and appropriate gear to ensure safety, comfort, and minimal environmental impact. In this article, we will discuss some of the essential gear for stealth camping.
- Lightweight and compact tent: A tent is an essential item for any camping trip, and stealth camping is no exception. However, the tent should be lightweight and compact to make it easy to carry and set up in remote areas. A good option is a backpacking tent that can accommodate 1-2 people, is easy to set up, and is made of durable and waterproof materials.
River Country Products One Person Trekking Pole Tent, Ultralight Backpacking Tent. 2.8 lbs.
Click here for the best available price on the One Person Trekking Pole Tent on Amazon.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles – Lightweight, Collapsible Hiking Poles for Backpacking Gear – Pair of 2 Walking Sticks for Hiking, 7075 Aluminum with Cork Grip
Click here for the best available price on the TrailBuddy Trekking Poles on Amazon.
- Sleeping bag and sleeping pad: A warm and comfortable sleeping bag and a sleeping pad are crucial for a good night’s sleep. A sleeping bag should be lightweight, compact, and have a temperature rating appropriate for the expected weather conditions. A sleeping pad provides insulation from the ground and adds extra cushioning for a comfortable sleep.
Snugpak Softie Elite 3 Sleeping Bag 3.5 lbs
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Klymit Static V Recon Lightweight Sleeping Pad. 0.5 lbs
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USGI Industries Military Style Poncho Multi Use Rip Stop Camouflage Rain Poncho. 1.2 lbs
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- Water filter or purification tablets: In remote areas, clean drinking water may not be readily available. A water filter or purification tablets can be used to purify water from natural sources such as streams and lakes, making it safe for drinking.
GRAYL UltraPress 16.9 oz Water Purifier & Filter Bottle for Hiking, Backpacking, Survival, Travel. 0.2 lbs empty, 1.0 lbs full.
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Potable Aqua Water Purification, Water Treatment Tablets – 50 count Twin Pack. 0.24 lbs
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Camelbak 100 Ounce Mil-Spec Antidote Reservoir Short 90854. Weighs in at 0.55 lbs empty. 6.25 lbs full.
Click here for the best available price on the Camelbak 100 Ounce Mil-Spec Antidote Reservoir on Amazon.
- Portable stove and cookware: A portable stove and cookware are necessary for cooking meals while camping. A lightweight and compact stove, such as a backpacking stove, is a good option. Cookware should also be lightweight and durable, such as a titanium or aluminum pot.
TOAKS Titanium 750ml Pot. Weighs in a 0.24 lbs.
Click here for the best available price on the TOAKS Titanium 750ml Pot on Amazon.
OUTXE Titanium 2 in 1 Fork and Spoon Combo 2-Pack Ultra Lightweight Camping Utensil, Eco-Friendly Spork for Backpacking, Hiking, Outdoors. Weighs in at 0.04 lbs.
Click here for the best available price on the OUTXE Titanium 2 in 1 Fork and Spoon Combo on Amazon.
Fire-Maple FMS-116T Titanium Backpacking Stove, Outdoor Camping Ultralight Gear, Essential for Earthquake Emergency Kit. Weighs in at 0.11 lbs.
Click here for the best available price on the Fire-Maple FMS-116T Titanium Backpacking Stove on Amazon.
Mountain House Homestyle Chicken Noodle Casserole | Freeze Dried Backpacking & Camping Food | Survival & Emergency Food. Six packs weigh in at 3.0 lbs.
Click here for the best available price on the Freeze Dried Backpacking & Camping Food on Amazon.
GasOne Camping Fuel Blend Isobutane Fuel Canister 100g (4 Pack). Weighs in at 0.22 lbs each. I pack 2 so total weight is 0.44 lbs.
Click here for the best available price on the GasOne Camping Fuel Blend on Amazon.
- Headlamp or flashlight: A headlamp or flashlight is necessary for navigating in the dark, especially when setting up camp or taking a bathroom break. A headlamp is a good option because it leaves your hands free to do other tasks.
Click here for: SHEDDING LIGHT ON THE BEST FLASHLIGHT OR HEADLAMP SELECTION FOR CAMPING AND HIKING
Bushnell PRO Rechargeable 400L Multi-Color Headlamp. High/low spot mode, high/low flood mode, and red mode. Rated IPX4 weather resistant. 0.21 lbs
Click here for the best available price on the Bushnell PRO 400L Rechargeable on Amazon.
Fire-Maple Orange Camping Gas Lantern | Glass, Steel & Aluminum | Propane or Isobutane Fuel | Beautiful Lighting and Camping Lantern. 0.3 lbs
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- Bear canister or food bag: When camping in areas with bears or other wildlife, it is essential to store food securely to prevent attracting animals to the campsite. A bear canister or food bag can be used to store food and other scented items.
Rothco MOLLE II 200 Round Saw Pouch. (This pouch can be used to store freeze dried food packets.) Weighs in at 0.75 lbs.
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PARACORD PLANET Mil-Spec Commercial Grade 550lb Type III Nylon Paracord Solid Colors. 0.2 lbs
Click here for the best available price on the 550lb Type III Nylon Paracord on Amazon.
- Navigation tools: In remote areas, it is easy to get lost without proper navigation tools. A map and compass or GPS device can be used to navigate and track your location.
Sun Company ProSight Sighting Map Compass with Adjustable Declination – Lightweight Orienteering Baseplate Compass for Hiking, Backpacking, and Survival Navigation | Professional Grade Compass. 0.26 lbs
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Helikon-Tex Map Case. 0.5 lbs
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Hiking Maps of National Forests
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Rite In The Rain All Weather Tactical Pocket Notebooks, 3″ L x 3″ W x 5″ H, Tan, 3 Count 0.12 lbs
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RedVex Ranger Style Paracord Pace Counter Beads 13 inch – Choose Your Color 0.04 lbs
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Military Protractor – Perfectly cut for Land Nav 0.11 lbs
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- Portable toilet or trowel: When camping in areas without established restrooms, it is essential to follow Leave No Trace principles and properly dispose of human waste. A portable toilet or trowel can be used to dig a cathole and bury waste.
iunio Hiking Trowel, Camping, Backpacking, Portable Shovel, Multitool, Ultralight Camp Tool, with Carrying Pouch, for Gardening, Outdoor, Survival 0.42 lbs
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- Clothing appropriate for the weather: Weather can change quickly in remote areas, so it is important to bring clothing appropriate for the expected conditions. Layers are essential, and clothing should be made of breathable and quick-drying materials.
LED Beanie with Light, Unisex USB Rechargeable Hands Free 4 LED Headlamp Cap. 0.22 lbs
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Texas Bushcraft Tactical Shemagh – Authentic Keffiyeh 100% Cotton for your Camping, Hiking and Backpacking Gear. 0.2 lbs
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First Aid
Small-Waterproof Car First-Aid Kit Emergency-Kit – 273Piece Camping Equipment for Camping Hiking Home Travel YIDERBO 1.04 lbs
Click here for the best available price on the 273 Piece Camping First Aid Kit on Amazon.
Communication
Baofeng Radio Handheld Ham Radio UV-S9 Plus 8W High Power Portable Two Way Radio. 0.6 lbs
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ABBREE SMA-Female Dual Band VHF/UHF 18.8-inch 144/430MHz High Gain Soft Whip Foldable CS Tactical Antenna for Baofeng UV-5R UV-82 BF-F8HP GMRS Radio Ham Two Way Radio 0.15 lbs
Click here for the best available price on the Whip Foldable CS Tactical Antenna for Baofeng UV-5R UV-82 BF-F8HP GMRS Radio on Amazon.
Tactical Radio Holder Radio Case Molle Radio Pouch Military Heavy Duty Radios Holster Bag for Two Ways Walkie Talkies Compatible with Bags/Packs/Duffels by LUITON 0.2 lbs
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Fire Starting
Waterproof Lighter USB Plasma Lighter Rechargeable Electric Lighter Waterproof with Flashlight. 0.26 lbs
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BIC Classic Lighter, Fashion Assorted Colors, 10-Pack. 0.06 lbs
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UCO Stormproof Match Kit with Waterproof Case, 25 Stormproof Matches and 3 Strikers. 0.11 lbs
Click here for the best available price on the UCO Stormproof Match Kit on Amazon.
Other Tools and Gear
Click here for A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Perfect Multitool for Camping and Hiking
Gerber Gear 30-001425N Center-Drive Needle Nose Pliers Multitool, with M4 Bit Set, Coyote Brown Molle Sheath. 0.59 lbs
Click here for the best available price on the Gerber Gear 30-001425N on Amazon.
SOG Escape Tactical Folding Knife- 3.4 Inch Serrated Edge Blade Emergency Pocket Knife with Glass Breaker, Wire Stripper and Line Cutter Blades-Black (FF25-CP) 0.3 lbs
Click here for the best available price on the SOG Escape Tactical Folding Knife on Amazon
In conclusion, stealth camping can be an incredible way to experience the beauty of nature, but it requires careful planning and appropriate gear. A lightweight and compact tent, sleeping bag and pad, water filter, portable stove and cookware, headlamp, bear canister or food bag, navigation tools, portable toilet or trowel, and appropriate clothing are essential items for a successful stealth camping trip. Always remember to follow Leave No Trace principles and respect the natural environment.
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