What to Pack for Your First Ruck

When you’re just getting into rucking, the gear list can feel a little overwhelming. The truth is: you don’t need much to get started. A good backpack, a weight source, and a few comfort add-ons will carry you a long way (literally). Here’s a breakdown of what to pack for your first ruck.

Backpack Basics

You don’t need to buy a military rucksack or a pricey tactical pack right away. A sturdy daypack you already own will do the job. Look for:

• Durability – Strong stitching and thick straps so the bag can handle extra weight.
• Comfort – Wide shoulder straps, some padding, and ideally a hip or chest strap to spread the load.
• Capacity – Around 15–25L is plenty for beginners.

Over time, you might want to move to a purpose-built pack like the Goat Gear Pathfinder (15L) or the larger Endurance Pack (25L), designed to hold modular weight sleeves securely.

DIY Weight Ideas

Rucking is all about walking with weight, but you don’t need fancy plates to start. Try these easy DIY options:

• Books – Stack a few hardcovers, wrap them in a towel to protect your back.
• Water Bottles – Filled and sealed tightly, they’re easy to adjust and spread around in your pack.
• Steel Bags – Durable, compact, and consistent. Goat Gear’s modular bags weigh 2.5 kg each and can be used solo or loaded into sleeves (7.5 kg with one sleeve, 15 kg with two). Perfect if you want an adjustable, sustainable solution.

Comfort Add-Ons

A few small items can make your first ruck far more enjoyable:

• Hydration – Bring a bottle or hydration bladder. Even short rucks feel harder if you’re dehydrated.
• Socks – Invest in good moisture-wicking socks. They’ll save you from hotspots and blisters.
• Blister Care – A small kit with band-aids, tape, or blister pads is smart insurance.

Optional but helpful: lightweight gloves (if carrying your pack by the handle), and a cap for sun or rain.

How Far Should You Go?

For your very first ruck, aim for 2–3 km (about 1–2 miles) with a light load. This is enough to get a feel for carrying weight without overdoing it. As you get more comfortable, you can gradually add distance or weight—but not both at once.

Quick Packing Checklist

Here’s a simple list you can run through before heading out:

• Backpack (15–25L, sturdy straps)
• Weight (books, bottles, or modular bags)
• Water bottle or hydration bladder
• Good socks (moisture-wicking)
• Blister kit (band-aids, tape, pads)
• Optional: gloves, cap, or sunglasses

Final Tip

Start simple. Don’t overpack. Your goal for the first ruck is to enjoy the process, not suffer through it. A solid backpack, a manageable weight, and a few comfort essentials are all you need to step into greatness.