Going on hikes is a great way to not only be one with nature but clear your mind, improve mood, and get in a great workout! You never know what new journey and adventure you might partake in once you start your hike. There are always new critters to spot and nature to awe at.
Whether you’re embarking on a hike you’ve done several times in the past or choosing a new route to take, there are some essential items that should be on your hike packing list. Without these items, you may find yourself in a sticky situation, which is the last thing you want while climbing up a mountain or crossing through a path in the woods.
To ensure you have an enjoyable and safe hike each and every time, be sure to continue reading below. Here are several items you’ll want to keep with you for single or multi-day hiking trips!
Layers of Clothes
The first thing you need to ensure you have with you is the right type of clothing. It’s essential to have several layers of moisture-wicking clothing. You want to avoid materials like cotton because it can absorb moisture (sweat) instead of allowing it to reach the air and dry.
Dry-fit polyester or wool are both excellent choices. This is true from your socks and underwear all the way to your sweater. You want to have several layers because you never know what the weather might have in store for you. Weather can be unpredictable and there’s a good chance it won’t be the same temperature at the end of the hike that it was at the beginning.
A good water-resistant jacket and hiking boots will complete your outfit. Make sure the hiking boots are comfortable, especially if you haven’t broken them in yet.
Hiking Backpack
Your hiking backpack is an important part of your hiking checklist because it’s going to be the place where you store all of your gear. For this reason, it needs to be both supportive and comfortable. Take your time choosing a hiking backpack that’s large enough to hold everything in it and easy to carry around.
You might want to try on a few different backpacks before making a final decision. If needed, then bring a few of your hiking gear items with you to ensure it all fits in the bag and then place it on your back. The straps should provide support and cushion.
Emergency Essentials
No one wants to imagine being injured on a hike, but it’s beneficial to plan for the worst and stay prepared. The right emergency essentials will keep you safe in case of a fall or if you were to get lost, injured, or encounter a predator. Prepare a first aid kit that holds everything you need insides of it, such as medications, ointments, bandages, and more.
Then, bring a whistle, a fire starter, a repair kit, a knife, and an emergency shelter. The idea is that you don’t have to use these items, but they’re there in case an unexpected situation were to happen. It’s also ideal to know the type of predators in your area and bring something along with you that’ll deter them if needed.
Water and Healthy Snacks
Food and water are two major hiking essentials to add to your checklist. You need to have enough hiking snacks and drinks with you to last you through your entire hike and longer. The food you pack should be high in protein, carbs, fats, and nutrients.
Snacks like these will help keep you energized. Think of food items like trail mix, sandwiches, and protein bars. Pack at least two liters of water per day of your hike.
If you can pack more, then do so, especially if it’s going to be a hot day.
Trekking Poles
A trekking pole isn’t always needed. This might depend on how long your hike is and what type of hiking you plan to do, but it’s good to have one. Is the hike you plan to complete an intense one, such as the Ultimate Kilimanjaro?
If so, then you’ll benefit from having a trekking pole with you. Easier hikes might not require you to bring one, but if you suffer from bad knees, then you’ll want to take one with you no matter what type of hiking you’re doing.
Navigational Equipment
To ensure your safety, you need to bring navigational equipment with you on your hike. You should bring a compass, a map, a personal locator beacon, and a satellite messenger. It’s also crucial to let at least one loved one know where you’re going for the day.
If something were to happen and you’re not back home by when you’re supposed to and not answering phone calls, then your loved one will know exactly where to send the rescue team.
Miscellaneous Hiking Gear
To finish the list, let’s discuss some miscellaneous hiking gear. These items are just as important as all other items on the list, so make sure you have these as well. A headlamp with extra batteries will come in handy after dark or during an overcast day.
Sunscreen is essential and should be applied every 30 minutes or so. Finally, don’t forget to pack bug spray, toilet paper, bags for trash, and a buff
What Does Your Hike Packing List Consist of?
What does your current hike packing list consist of? Are all of these items on your list? If not, then you’ll want to be sure to add each one that’s missing.
When you have all of these items in your backpack for your hike, you’ll be sure to have an enjoyable and safe adventure! To find more interesting topics similar to this one, don’t forget to check back here on a regular basis.
