Obviously you can’t go on a backcountry tour without your touring equipment.  Ever since I was a little kid, I’ve used the same basic checklist whenever I go up to the mountains: Toque, Goggles, Boots, Gloves, Board(or Skis), Pass, Jacket, Pants.  However, that’s just the riding gear you would have if going to the resort.

When it comes to touring, I use the exact same list, but a few items are now expanded as follows:

Toque – you may wish to carry a lighter cap (or helmet liner) for hiking and a warmer toque for the campsite.  In addition, you should always wear a helmet in the backcountry as you never know what is hidden under that beautiful white powder.

Goggles – As conditions may vary on a multi-day trip, it’s a good idea to have more than one lense (high-light and low-light).

Boots – Light touring boots are essential.  However, I’ll argue that campsite booties are key as well because the feeling of changing out of your sweaty boots after an 8 hour hike is indescribable.  Personally, I carry the Baffin Base Camp Insulated Booties.

Gloves – Again, you will want at least two sets of gloves: one for hiking and one for the campsite/riding.

Board/Skis – It goes without saying, but.. you should have your splitboard or touring skis, and touring bindings.  You may also have separate adjustable touring poles such as the Black Diamond Traverse Ski Poles.

Pass – Your “pass” for the backcountry would be your skins.  You’d have a hard time touring without them!

Jacket & Pants – Layering is the key to staying warm and light.  A good layering setup will have a base layer, mid layer, and outer shell.  If you are expecting extreme cold, you may want a secondary mid layer for extra warmth.  Check out our post on backcountry layering here.