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Before embarking on your journey into Dungeons & Dragons, selecting an Equipment Pack is a small yet important decision in character creation. A wise adventurer always keeps some rations and extra clothes for those nights spent under the stars.
Choosing the right equipment pack can be tricky, especially with so many options available. If you want to ensure you have everything necessary for your adventure, we can assist you in making the right choice.
Updated on January 14, 2024 by Alexis Campbell: This guide has been revised to reflect the latest updates in the 2024 Player’s Handbook for Dungeons & Dragons 5E. Whether you’re curious about the differences between the Dungeoneer’s Pack and the Explorer’s Pack or want to see what changes have come with the 2024 PHB, we’ve got all the info covered here.
What Are Equipment Packs?
At the start of your adventure, you’ll usually get to select an Equipment Pack to begin your journey. This pack is a backpack filled with essential supplies that will support you on your quest.
Typically, your character’s Class will allow you to choose from different Equipment Packs. You will only get one selection, but with your Dungeon Master’s approval, you might be able to purchase additional packs from in-game shops.
Most packs contain various tools, but almost all packs include:
- Rations for sustenance
- A waterskin for hydration
- Some clothing for warmth
The relevance of these items largely depends on the style of campaign you’re part of and how much your DM emphasizes survival elements. While you may have rations, many DMs opt not to track food and water during gameplay.
Choosing an Equipment Pack
If you’re uncertain about which Equipment Pack suits you best, it’s a good idea to talk to your DM about the campaign type you’re entering. Consider your character’s personality as well—it could lead you to the right choice.
Some packs tend to be universally beneficial:
Pack | Explanation |
---|---|
Dungeoneer’s Pack | A reliable choice that includes useful tools, torches, and climbing gear. It’s usually better than the Explorer’s Pack for indoor settings. |
Diplomat’s/Scholar’s/Entertainer’s Packs | These packs are more specialized and can be invaluable in the right situations, particularly for role-playing enthusiasts. |
Burglar’s Pack | An ideal option for rogues, this pack is filled with tools that are perfect for overcoming obstacles like locked treasure chests. |
When making your selection, consider the number of tools your class pack provides and how frequently you think you’ll need them. Creating a priority list of tools and perks can help you find which pack matches your needs best.
Checking Equipment from Your Background
Before selecting your Equipment Pack, it’s wise to review the equipment your Background provides. This can help avoid overlapping items and inform your decision.
Equipment Pack Changes In Revised Fifth Edition: 2025
Beginning with the 2025 version, while most classes offer a choice between two packs in the previous editions, each class is now limited to one Equipment Pack. However, you will have a few options upon starting:
- A set of equipment that includes a pack
- A specific amount of gold
With the gold, there are no restrictions on your purchases, allowing you to buy a different Equipment Pack if you wish.
Note: Always discuss with your DM before spending gold at the campaign’s outset to confirm your shopping options and available items.
All Equipment Packs
There are seven official Equipment Packs and one unofficial pack from the Blood Hunter’s Handbook. Some Equipment Packs are exclusive to certain classes.
For reference, all official packs are depicted on page 151 of the Player’s Handbook for the 5th Edition.
Pack | Class (Pre-2025) | Class (2025 Edition Only) | Store Value | Equipment |
---|---|---|---|---|
Alchemist’s Supplies (Unofficial Pack) | Artificer (DM-permission), Blood Hunter | None | 50 GP | – 2 Glass Beakers – Metal frame (for beakers) – Glass stirring rod – Mortar and pestle – Pouch of common alchemical ingredients |
Burglar’s Pack | Rogue | Rogue | 16 GP | – Backpack – 1,000 ball bearings – 10ft of string – Bell – 5 candles – Crowbar – Hammer – 10 pitons – Hooded Lantern – 2 flasks of oil – 5 days of rations – Tinderbox – Waterskin – 50ft of hempen rope |
Diplomat’s Pack | Bard | None | 39 GP | – Chest – 2 map & scroll cases – Set of fine clothes – Bottle of ink – Pen – Lamp – 2 flasks of oil – 5 sheets of paper – Vial of perfume – Sealing wax – Soap |
Dungeoneer’s Pack | Artificer, Fighter, Monk, Ranger, Rogue, Sorcerer, Warlock | Fighter, Sorcerer | 12 GP | – Backpack – Crowbar – Hammer – 10 pitons – 10 torches – Tinderbox – 10 days of rations – Waterskin – 50ft of hempen rope |
Entertainer’s Pack | Bard | Bard | 40 GP | – Backpack – Bedroll – 2 costumes – 5 candles – 5 days of rations – Waterskin – Disguise Kit |
Explorer’s Pack | Barbarian, Blood Hunter, Cleric, Druid, Fighter, Monk, Paladin, Ranger, Sorcerer, Wizard | Barbarian, Druid, Monk, Ranger | 10 GP | – Backpack – Bedroll – Mess kit – Tinderbox – 10 torches – 10 days of rations – Waterskin – 50ft of hempen rope |
Priest’s Pack | Cleric, Paladin | Cleric, Paladin | 19 GP | – Backpack – Blanket – 10 candles – Tinderbox – Alms box – 2 blocks of incense – Censer – Vestments – 2 days of rations – Waterskin |
Scholar’s Pack | Warlock, Wizard | Warlock, Wizard | 40 GP | – Backpack – Book of lore – Bottle of ink – Ink pen – 10 sheets of parchment – Little bag of sand – Small knife |
Use this guide to enhance your Dungeons & Dragons experience and ensure you’re well-prepared for whatever your adventure throws at you!