Whether you’re going to hike for an hour or all day, follow this gear checklist so you are prepared for whatever your adventure brings.
The following checklist is by no means exhaustive, but these are the items I ALWAYS carry with me when I head out for a hike. You might initially think this is a lot of stuff, but it’s pretty minimal when you consider that you could easily be spending the night if you get lost or injured.
Leave No Trace‘s #1 Principle is PLAN AHEAD & PREPARE for a reason. With this checklist, you will at least have the basics covered.
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Essentials
1️⃣ Day Pack
A day pack is anywhere from 10
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2️⃣ Water & Food
2-4
Trail snacks such a cereal bars, trail mix, fruit etc. and take a lunch if out longer than 3 hours. Having a stash of high energy snacks can be helpful if you end up being out longer.
3️⃣ Sturdy shoes or hiking boots
Sturdy soles with 3-4mm lugs for traction, waterproof recommended.
Check out my reviews of hiking boots here.
4️⃣ Appropriate Clothing
Dress for the weather and ALWAYS take a dry, warm layer and wind/waterproof jacket.
5️⃣ Flashlight/headlamp
With extra batteries.
6️⃣ Lighter & Firestarter
Dryer lint, or other easy to light materials in waterproof container/bag.
7️⃣ Pocket Knife
Useful in so many ways! A small knife takes no space but can be a huge asset.
8️⃣ Whistle & Communication Device
A simple yet very effective way to
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You should also carry a cell phone, SPOT, Garmin InReach or Satellite phone, depending on your remoteness so you will be able to call for help if the need arises.
9️⃣ Map and Compass
It’s important to stay found! Get a good topographical map of the local area. Perhaps bring a GPS if you have one and are familiar with its use.
🔟 First Aid Kit
Size depends on the number of people in your group. Be familiar with how to use each item in your kit.
A 1-2 person kit is available at our store, Adventure
Optional Items
Tarp, Rope or Emergency Shelter
An emergency shelter can keep you warm and dry in any situation, especially if you spend an unplanned night in the woods.
Gaiters
A simple upgrade to take any low cut boot or shoe into a snow-proof, dirt-proof adventure boot!
Hiking Poles
Reduce the impact on lower joints as well as add upper body cardio to your hike!
Sunscreen and bug repellent
Protect your skin from UV and black flies!
Binoculars
Helpful for wildlife viewing or route scouting.
Camera
Capture the experience and share with us!
#outdoorsandonthego #gearevolution
What does your Day Hike Checklist include?
Anything you would add?
Comment below!