Packing For Your Hiking Elopement

Do you want to hike for your elopement adventure? HECK YES! We are so down for that, which is why we’ve created this hiking blog to help you plan ahead. We want to make sure that you’re fully prepped and ready for your elopement!

The 10 Hiking Essentials 

1. The right footwear
2. Map, compass, and a GPS (make sure that you know how to use these tools)
3. Water and a purifier
4. Food (specifically high calorie snacks)
5. Rain gear and dry fast layers
6. Safety items including a light, whistle, and a way to make a fire (lighter, matches, etc.)
7. A good first aid kit/CPR certification
8. Knife/multitool, small ax, trashbag
9. Sun protection (glasses, hat, sunscreen)
10. Shelter: Not necessarily a tent but think of a space blanket or even a lightweight small tarp that could be used (along with shelter, you should also include rope such as 550 cord)

Bonus: Another awesome essential is a reusable trash bag! This means that you’re intentionally packing out everything that you take on a trail. We love that they have included this essential because we’rehuge advocates of the Leave No Trace principles. Check out our blog on Leave No Trace to learn more.

What else should you pack for a hiking elopement in addition to the 10 essentials? 

If you’re planning a hiking elopement, you should pack not only the 10 Hiking Essentials, but you should make sure you pack these additional items:

1. A lightweight tent to fit you and your partner, or two single tents along with a footprint.
2. A GOOD sleeping bag that is rated for the type of environment you are eloping in. For Washington, we would recommend a bag rated for 0 degrees. 
3. A good sleeping pad is essential. This will help you stay off the cold, hard ground and make sure you are comfortable to get a good night’s sleep! 
4. Extra food and a way to cook it. Our favorite dry food meals are Mountain House Adventure Meals. One package always has enough food for the both of us and they make some pretty decent meals for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even desserts! 
5. This goes along with food, but you’ll need a way to cook your meals. For dried food, all you need is a way to boil water. We like the Jet Boil or MSR Kit. These brands are both light weight, and they allow you to boil the exact amount of water needed for your meal without having to lug around a large stove or pot. 
6. Extra clothes! You will likely only need one extra pair of clothes if you are going on an overnight trip. However, no one likes putting wet socks back on, so we find that bringing two pairs of extra socks can be helpful. Not only that, but if it’s an especially cold night you can double up your socks while you are sleeping. Extra underwear and lightweight, buildable layers are awesome to have as well. 

Elopement Packing Essentials

You can’t forget to pack the things you need for your special day, too! Safety is extremely important, so please make sure you’re always prepared and use our lists above to pack in advance. Below, we’re going to list some things you’ll want to consider bringing to your outdoor adventure elopement!

1. Wedding attire (suit, dress, layers, jackets, etc)
2. Rings
3. Vow books
4. Any details (earrings, pins, etc)
5. Florals
6. Marriage License
7. Permits/passes

Elopement Location Packing Ideas

No matter where you’re eloping, you’re always going to want to be prepared for the weather! So, we’ve come up with a few different locations and what you might want to remember to pack.

Desert Elopement Must Haves

WATER WATER WATER!!! And a purifier!!!!! If you are overnighting in a desert location you need to know where your water source is. Sun protection is also a must. Protect yourself!

Mountain Elopement Must Haves 

Always be ready for the cold. In some locations, it can be a hot day, but then after the sun goes down, the temperature can drop rapidly. Bring layers and something warm to sleep in. When we were in Grand Tetons National Park in July it was in the 70s  during the day, and yet it ended up snowing in the evening. So be prepared no matter what!

Coastal Elopement Must Haves 

Waterproof gear! It rains a lot on the coast so make sure you are ready for it!