I spent 5 days in the Great Smoky Mountains with just a backpack. Here are 9 items I'm glad I packed and 1 thing I didn't need.

A backpack was all Business Insider's reporter needed for a five-day trip to the Great Smoky Mountains. Joey Hadden/Business Insider I traveled to the Great Smoky Mountains in 2023 and packed just a backpack.  I was glad I brought layers, my camera, and a physical copy of a good book.  I wish I had left my iPad behind. I usually travel with just a backpack.  From short trips to two-week adventures, I find it's easiest to get around and keep track of my belongings when I pack light. But my f...