One of the wonders of a pack trip is that a horse carries all of your baggage for you. This allows you to bring more than it you had to carry it yourself, but still does not mean unlimited amounts. The less duffle the better, making things easier for horses and wranglers alike!

Having said that, there are some things that are absolutely necessary to bring along, even if you hope you won't need them. Like raingear.

Pack all of your gear, except what you will need to take with you while you ride, into a duffle bag. A long, narrow shaped duffle fits better on a horse pack than a short, round shaped duffle. You can choose to put all of your personal gear and bedding into one large duffle bag, or if you have a large "bedroll", it is better to split it into two, one duffle for your bedroll and one for your personal gear. Weight is important. Where you have a choice, bring items that are lighter in weight. Try to keep your duffle under 45 or 50lbs. If your duffle bag is not waterproof, place its contents into plastic garbage bags to protect against dampness.

•   Hat - something to shield you from the sun or rain.
•   Boots - sturdy hiking boots with heels are the most versatile.
•  Camp shoes - light weight running shoes are ideal.
•  Warm clothes - just in case.
  •  Long underwear
  •   Heavy sweater or light jacket
  •  Warm cap
  •  A pair of thick, warm socks
•  Rain gear - Expensive rain gear is not necessary but quality is always a good investment.
  •  Jacket - with a hood if your hat alone is not enough protection.
  •  Rain pants
  •  Rubber or waterproof boots
•  Gloves
•  Shorts- weather in the mountains can change rapidly. It can go from cool to suntaning weather over night.
•  Several pairs of sturdy pants.
•  An assortment of both light and heavy tops/shirts for all types of weather.
•  Socks and underwear - they're light, bring plenty.

Personal gear

•  Personal hygiene products - among them don't forget
•  Soap
•  Toothbrush and toothpaste
•  Hairbrush
•  Hand and face cream
•  Nail clippers
•  Towel and face cloth
•  Pocket flash light with extra batteries- mini mags are perfect.
•  Pocket knife
•  Suntan lotion and bug repellent

Sleeping gear

•  Warm sleeping bag - the mountain air can get cold at night.
•  Sleeping mat - a Thermarest type mat is ideal. Get one that is at least 2 inches thick.. Foamies are also good but more bulky. Air mattresses tend to be heavy and cold.
•  Ground sheet - A tarp or heavy piece of plastic will help keep your bedroll dry. Get one that is big enough to go over your bed roll as well as under it.

Necessary extras

•  Camera
•  Fishing equipment - that is if you enjoy fishing.

These are all things that you really don't want to forget. There are many more things that you may want to bring such as

Maybes

•  Water bottle - many people like to carry water to drink during the days ride. Others prefer to drink right out of the many clear streams along the way.
•  Paper or Journal with pen to write on/in.
•  Book to read.
•  Alcoholic beverages. Purchase those in plastic containers where available.
•  Musical instrument -if your instrument is a large one, ask first, it may be safer at home.

Remember, all food is included. If you have any special dietary needs, don't forget to mention them when you book your trip.