There are thousands of gear lists out there detailing what to bring when hiking or backpacking, but you have to really dig to find the stuff that may not seem obvious but nonetheless make a HUGE difference between a fun trip and an absolute drag.  Here are a few items I pack on every trip that fit that catergory.

What should I bring?

It’s pretty web 1.0-looking, but a powerful tool nonetheless.  Whether you’re a beginner or experienced world traveler, the Universal Packing list will tell you exactly what to take.   Input your travel dates, the expected temperature, your gender, your mode of transportation and a urine sample*, and you’ll receive a listing of pre-trip to-do items as well as your packing list and reasons why you should take what they tell you to take.

*Just kidding about the urine sample

Universal Packing List