I am a huge checklist fan, coming from both the GTD mindset and the philosophy for the Checklist Manifesto and would highly recommend taking the Checklist approach when it comes to creating a perfect outdoor backpack, full of all essentials.
All-season Outdoor Backpack Checklist
Must-Haves:
Water
Light back-packing food (trail mix, chocolates, energy/protein bars)
Sun-screen
Bug-repellent – I keep a mild one for kids and Deet-based for adults
Disposable Rain Ponchos
Swiss Army Knife or equivalent
First-aid box with analgesic
Water-proof pouch for cellphone (a must have since I bricked my Pixel 2 in Everglades in this trip)
Hand sanitizer and extra masks (if there are still masking restrictions)
Small pack of soft tissues
Battery juice pack with charging cable
Small towel and spare change clothing
Good to haves:
Portable selfie stick
Water-proof Bluetooth speaker – I have used this in most careless way around beaches, pools, hot-tubs for many years with no complaints
Some pennies to throw in the wishing wells, fountains and wherever else your kids desire!
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