Hiking Essentials Checklist (26 Things to Pack on a Hike)

Your hiking backpack, which is among the most important essential hiking gear items, must be snug, durable, usable, and an ideal size for your needs.

The Osprey Daylite is a backpack that receives frequent recommendation on Travel Lemming, as it represents one of the top travel backpacks available in the marketplace today. Features like an internal water compartment, hip and chest straps, and breathable rear mesh panel make this a quality choice for hiking trips.

Rain Pack Cover

Even before brief day excursions, you should consistently check weather predictions for your security and pleasure. But as we all realize, forecasts aren’t constantly precise. Lightweight and compact, it never damages to bring along the Joy Walker backpack rain cover just in case.

This convenient hiking backpack cover is crafted from waterproof material, uses an elastic edge, and incorporates anti-slip straps. It`s low-cost yet effective for protecting sensitive hiking equipment like electronics and paper items. Pairing this with the Osprey Daylite, the small size is recommended, though this company manufactures covers for backpacks up to 90L in capacity as well.

Dry Bags

For the ultimate degree of protection from water, use these Frelaxy dry sacks jointly with your backpack rain shields. Each waterproof bag is lightweight and easy to compress, and they likewise help keep all your essential hiking gear well-organized. They’re somewhat like neat, little packing assortments, an item I advise in my Colorado packing catalogue guide.

To utilize, simply pack your dry bag, fold the roll-top closure 3-5 times, then secure the strap. I enjoy using these as a lunch sack, to store my GoPro equipment, and to keep my hiking first aid kit safe.

👉 Pro Tip: To maximize space and distribute weight, try attaching a dry bag or two to the exterior of your backpack!

First Aid Kit

If collecting materials necessary for long wilderness trips for an extended hiking journey, you may opt for medical kits suited for emergencies. These comprehensive kits regularly include fast-acting bandages, tourniquets, and additional supplies for life-threatening situations. Though safety should always take top priority, most would agree that a basic first aid kit should suffice on day excursions.

I`ve hiked throughout many areas in the West, particularly trails located in Colorado, and this first aid kit manufactured by General Medi is my individual top choice. When trekking on steep paths like Colorado fourteeners, the included moleskin has proven very useful for treating blisters.

Various sized adhesive bandages and tweezers are similarly beneficial to carry when hiking, as is the included emergency blanket. It can double as shelter, which is one of the Ten Essentials you should always have when venturing into the wilderness.

Blister Treatments

If you acquire the first aid kit proposed earlier, at that time you’ll have moleskin accessible to assist treat blisters. In my view, moleskin is effective, but it does not offer as long-lasting protection as hydrocolloid dressings. These types of bandages act somewhat like a scab, shielding a wound and enabling the body to heal more rapidly.

These water resistant blister covering Band-Aids enable you to carry on trekking even if your boots are irritating. They’re relaxed, water tolerant, and reliably adhesive. I’ve never had one slip off, even when fitting on and removing tight rock climbing shoes. I strongly suggest you pack them on your hiking trip, just in case!

Hand Warmers

Hand warmers also represent an “extra” item I’d propose adding to your medical readiness kit, specifically regarding your winter hiking equipment checklist. Or you may always want to carry these if you reside in a region where everyday temperatures vary significantly, like the mountainous Colorado or the arid desert of Las Vegas.

Chemical heated mittens truly last the proposed extended duration of ten hours as stated. Simply compressing the packets to start an exothermic reaction activates them, then they adhere to location but not directly on skin. Rather, position them sandwiched between gloves layers or, in the case of their toe warmers, between socks and hiking footwear.

Space Blanket

If you obtain our suggested first aid kit, then you’re already prepared in the area of emergency shelter. But if you don’t presently have one, please take into account obtaining this 4-pack of space blankets by Everlit. They’re exceptionally affordable, lightweight, and could essentially spare your life.

You never know if injury or unfavorable weather could leave you stranded overnight. These effective thermal blankets maintain 90% of body heat and can shield you from wind and moisture. In an emergency situation, you can also use them to collect water or as a signaling tool. It`s advisable to include these essential items on your hiking packing list!

Sunscreen

Whether you’re hiking the beaches of St. John, USVI, or mountaintop trails near Seattle, sun protection is absolutely essential. To avoid ultraviolet rays, it’s recommended that sunscreen be applied under standard clothing. For example, a cotton t-shirt is easily penetrable by the sun’s rays and only has a UPF of 5.

Freely utilize Sun Bum’s SPF 50 sunscreen when on hiking trails, even in cooler weather. After all, the sun’s beams reflect off of snow. Remember to reapply every two hours or if perspiring on an intense trail, even more frequently.

👉 Pro Tip: To save weight and room in your pack, squeeze sunscreen into smaller portable containers, such as travel-size containers before your hike.

SPF Lip Balm

Stay entirely protected from the sun with this complimentary set of three moisturizing lip balms by Sun Bum. Each of the tropical-flavored balms contains aloe and vitamin E. These nourishing components promote healing while SPF 30 protects from the sun.

Bug Spray

When trekking in environments housing bugs, such as humid woods or places near water, having insect repellent will prove useful. Off! Deep Woods® insect repellent offers long-lasting protection against mosquitoes, ticks, and flies. Its non-greasy formula and effectivity make it a top choice for outdoor recreation activities.

Bear Spray

Depend on the area where the day hiking will take place, bear spray may not be needed. For instance, while Colorado is home to black bears, I infrequently bring this equipment with me on day hikes near Denver. But when hiking in Glacier National Park (one of the best things to do in the US!), it was definitely part of my day hiking essentials.

If you do plan on hiking in bear country, pack this bear spray by Guard Alaska. You hope to never need to utilize it, but it’s an important safety device to carry along.

👉 Helpful Hint: Another useful tool for those in bear country is a bear bell, which alerts animals to one`s approach by the sound. Affixing it to the outside of your pack could benefit both human and animal on the trail and hopefully avoid surprises for either party.

Whistle

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The Osprey Daylite backpack incorporates a whistle attached to the chest strap. But if you opt to day hike with a different pack, think about wearing one of these LuxoGear emergency whistles. Aside from protection from creatures, they additionally work well to alert others if you become wounded, lost, or separated from your hiking party.

Compass

Navigation is another of the Ten Essentials, and having a compass is a reliable tool you should highly consider integrating into your day hiking equipment. It may not be necessary on well-indicated paths but is beneficial in remote areas and on longer hikes.

Weighing under half a pound, this base plate device by TurnOnSport doesn’t require batteries or cellular service. With precise orientation, guide lines, and a built-in magnifying lens, you’ll be far less likely to become lost. But of course, it’s important to know how to utilize a compass — and don’t forget a topographical map of your hiking region, too.

GPS Device

While maps are tried and tested by many, in our digital era some may opt for a GPS device like the Garmin GPSMap® 66i. Those starting out on heavily traveled paths will likely find this unnecessary. But if extended hikes through remote regions or activities such as canyoneering interest you, then this all-in-one gadget will delight.

You can view weather expectations, follow downloaded maps, and track and share your location. Inreach® technology allows you to communicate with others via satellite, and if needed, send an SOS signal to a 24/7 response team. Even if just day hiking, it provides greater reassurance, and personally, is one of my preferred pieces of hiking gear.

Headlamp

New hikers stand out like sore thumbs when using their cell phone flashlights on trails. But really, hiking in the dark isn’t all that difficult when your hands are free!

This Petzl headlamp is consistently included in my day hiking essentials list. You can never predict when uneven terrain or becoming turned around may cause your day hike to last longer than anticipated. Nor should you feel hurried to return to your vehicle before nightfall! When appropriately planned, you can be a little more impromptu when exploring.”

Fire Starter

Though reliable to start a fire, stronger winds or dampness can cause trouble for using matches or lighters. Both are usually trusted methods under the Ten Essentials for day hiking.

To create a fire during any weather conditions and at any altitude, check out the innovative flame production device by Light My Fire. To activate it, stack kindling material, then scrape the striker implement against the rod until a spark ignites the pile.

Unless stranded overnight, a fire shouldn`t be needed on a day hike. But sometimes when an established fire ring is spotted, taking a break mid-hike can be enjoyable. Just be familiar with any fire restrictions in the area beforehand.

Multi-tool

The northern region of the city contains some of Kyoto’s most famed temples. You`ll need to take taxis or buses to see them because they are scattered. The highlight is Kinkaku-ji (formally Rokuon-ji Temple), also known as the Golden Pavilion, one of Kyoto’s top attractions. Try to get there when they open to avoid the long queues, usually at 9 a.m. Once you’ve paid entry, there’s a relatively short one-way trail around the pavilion and its pond, providing several beautiful perspectives (and photo ops). It was constructed in the 1390s as shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu’s retirement villa before becoming a Zen Buddhist temple after his death. The three-story pavilion is covered in gold leaf and sits beside an islet-studded pond, making for a brilliant contrast against a deep blue sky. It gained notoriety in 1950 when a novice monk burned it to the ground. Yukio Mishima’s novel, The Temple of the Golden Pavilion, is based on the story. It was rebuilt soon after.

Water Bottle

Another top pick by Travel Lemming, this reusable bottle is capable of purifying water from viruses, bacteria, and even sediment.

Whether packing for a brief excursion or heading out on a day hike, the Grayl Geopress Purifier is regularly endorsed by Travel Lemming. We provide a comprehensive overview of its attributes and benefits in our review of the Grayl Geopress.

However in brief, it’s one of the best water bottles on the market. In seconds, you can remove harmful viruses, bacteria, heavy metals, chemicals, and even sediment from any water source.

👉 Pro Tip: A Leatherman multi-tool has the potential to repair most issues, however if it cannot, turn to the sticky tape wrapped around my water bottle for easy access. I consistently have the tape coiled around the bottle for simple usability whenever needed. Trust me, it proves useful on many occasions!

Water Reservoir

Carrying an adequate supply of water is obviously important when hiking for the day, and it`s preferable to bring too much rather than risk running out. This lightweight CamelBak hydration reservoir is a great additional or substitute option for a water bottle.

Its ergonomic structure makes it slot easily into many backpack sleeves, like the Osprey Daylite. The wide opening allows filling with ice for cooling and makes cleaning much simpler than comparable products. Plus, CamelBak offers a lifetime warranty!

Action Camera

The GoPro HERO8 is one of the brand’s top-rated versions, praised for its assortment of capabilities. It`s water-resistant with an impact-proof lens and can shoot stabilized, professional videos as well as live stream.

If undertaking an extreme hike, fasten the camera to your helmet using a protective housing accessory. Or for distinctive footage, consider adding this camera mount to your day hike checklist.

Trekking Poles

Walking poles might not be necessary on smooth paths, but this helpful outdoor accessory is excellent for rugged and slippery terrain. If you’re uncertain of what conditions may be present, these trekking poles from TrailBuddy may be worthwhile to carry. Besides, they compress and only weigh 9 ounces!

Adjust the supports to your preferred height and enjoy the comfortable grip. Crafted from aluminum, they`re also durable enough to withstand the elements.

Other Hiking Essentials to Pack

• • Purification tablets for water
  • Tablets that facilitate hydration by replenishing key electrolytes
  • Salty snacks like trail mix
  • A device that allows two-way communication
  • Solar powered battery bank
  • Hammock
  • Vision Magnifiers
  • Outdoor journal
  • Trash bag
  • Toilet paper

The hiking essentials needed often incorporate a compact excavation tool and/or waste containment packaging

• Hand sanitizer
• Hair ties
• Identification card
• Cash and/or credit card
• Printed hiking permit (if applicable)

Clothing to Pack for Hiking

What clothing to pack for hiking will largely depend on the weather conditions. However, certain types of clothing like uv-protective shirts, waterproof trousers, and rain gear are always a sensible choice.

Here’s a general clothing checklist for hiking:

• Hiking boots or hiking shoes
• Wool socks
• Moisture-wicking UPF shirt
• Water-resistant UPF hiking pants
• Quick-dry undergarments
• Rain jacket
• Protective hat

If you’re hiking in warmer conditions, you may also gain advantage from a cooling towel, especially a hat with a large brim. If the conditions are cooler, things like a warm beanie, insulated jacket, gloves, and microspikes should be contributed to your hiking equipment list.

Consider these suggested selections, each highly rated for quality and performance:

Hiking Boots

There are a few reasons I`ve ranked Aardy lowest on this list. Primarily, personally I discover its interface less straightforward compared to TravelInsurance.com. A secondary downside is that they necessitate providing your contact information merely to receive an estimate, which none of the other travel insurance sites on this listing do.

The Vibram rubber sole grips rugged terrain, while the leather arch offers ankle support. Breathable mesh makes them appropriate even in warm conditions, and the women`s style presents identical excellent attributes.

Wool Socks

Many trekkers prefer socks made from a blend of merino wool and synthetic materials. These sock types are often durable, comfortable, and effective at regulating temperature. They’re also odor resistant and dry quickly.

USA-made, Darn Tough has been my preferred brand since I started hiking. Their men’s merino wool socks do not readily sliding or bunching, an important factor to prevent bruises. The same relates to their women’s version, and the two come with a lifetime warranty. Though, I’ve never torn a hole into any of my pairs!

Moisture-wicking UPF T-Shirt

Standard T-shirts typically have a UPF of 5, which is why you usually need to apply sunscreen beneath your clothes. However, you likely could skip this with a 50+ UPF tee by BALEAF. A range of hues and sizes are obtainable in both women’s and men’s styles.

Along with providing sun protection, these long-sleeved shirts are lightweight and absorb sweat well. The relaxed cut also allows for a full range of motion, ideal for outdoor activities.

Water-Resistant UPF Hiking Pants

Regardless of one`s location, the weather can be difficult to anticipate. In the event of rain or fluctuating temperatures, I suggest convertible hiking pants that can be worn fully or as shorts. Columbia`s Saturday Trail II pants are my go-to pair for hiking outings, and are available in men`s sizes as well. These pants by Columbia allow flexibility depending on alterations in weather conditions.”

The fabric is both UPF 50 and water resistant, securely storing any items in zip pockets for easy access. An elastic waistband and classic fit also promote free and comfortable movement.

Rain Jacket

When it comes to rain jackets, several Columbia models meet all the criteria related to my preferred features. The men’s Watertight II design is made with a waterproof nylon shell, sealing out moisture and retaining warmth. An adjustable hood, hem, and cuffs further shelter you from the elements.

The recommended foldable tent for women includes similar conveniences, and both are exceedingly lightweight. In addition, they compress tightly and require little backpack space.”

Tips for Packing Hiking Essentials

Waterproof Sensitive Items

Recall those waterproof containers I discussed earlier? When preparing your hiking supplies and packing your bag, trust that storing sensitive items securely is worthwhile.

Store vulnerable paper items like cash and toilet paper in the securing pouches, and even more importantly, expensive electronics. The last thing wanted is to damage a cell phone or camera during a day hike!

Refill Your First Aid Kit

If you select the pre-assembled first aid kit that was previously proposed, you should be adequately prepared for some time. However, if you have not recently inspected the items in your kit, do so before embarking on your hike. You don`t want to discover while on the trail that you are lacking bandages, over-the-counter medications, or any other essential items.

Know What You Need

There’s no reason to hike with a pack that’s heavier than necessary — unless your training, I suppose. But the average day hiker doesn’t need to pack everything on this checklist. Some are better suited for longer hikes, and others are solely luxuries!

For example, warm climate eliminates the requirement for items like hand warmers and microspikes. A brief 2-mile hike near your home likely does not warrant a two-way radio or GPS device. Use wise judgment, but consistently carry the Ten Essentials.

Dress In Layers

As we`ve discussed, the weather can be unpredictable. Do your best to prepare for varying temperatures and forms of precipitation by following our tips regarding clothing. Items like convertible pants and compact rain jackets provide effortless adaptability.

👉 Excellent Advice: When the weather turns cold, a well-insulated garment to consider is this Triclimate Waterproof Jacket manufactured by The North Face. It also comes in women’s cuts, allowing the wearer to modify the insulation levels as preferred.

Function Over Fashion

Many outdoor brands address both function and looks. However, the former is more critical for your experience and safety. Don`t skimp on layers just because they make you appear bulky, or choose footwear that`s too tight just for its appearance. And steer clear of all-white soles!

Remember that you’re hiking! Embrace the culture and choose what makes you comfortable, even if that means forgoing your usual sleek style.

🏕️ Read Next: Items to Pack for Camping

Hiking Packing List FAQs

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If you are new to hiking, hopefully this packing list provided guidance to comprehend the essential items for hiking. And if you have already logged miles with your boots, perhaps you discovered an important piece of hiking equipment you had not considered before. Regardless, enjoy your next adventure and happy trails!