Hiking is a great way to spend time outdoors, get exercise, and have fun with family and friends (and you’ll get a good workout while you’re at it). Hiking is also an accessible activity that doesn’t require a lot of special gear. With this guide, you can find out what to pack and how to make sure you have everything you need for a safe, comfortable hike. With just a few items that are durable, comfortable, and functional - you’ll be set to hit the trails!
The right backpack will hold everything you need and nothing more, no matter how far off the beaten path you wander. When choosing a backpack, consider its capacity and weight. The pack should comfortably fit your body size. It should also have a frame (internal or external) that provides ample lumbar support; padded straps to evenly distribute the weight on your shoulders, back and hips; multiple pockets for storing gear within easy reach; compression straps for securing items and reducing pack volume; and a hip belt that is tight enough to keep the pack from shifting but loose enough to allow unrestricted breathing.
Most daypacks range between 20-35 litres as far as capacity goes. For lightweight weekend trips (1-2 nights) with minimal gear, packs between 40-50 litres are appropriate. Longer trips will require larger packs of 50-70 litres or more—but watch out! A bigger pack means more temptation to bring extra stuff. Only load up what you really need: too much weight causes fatigue, leading to an injury or worse if you’re not careful.
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Hikers need a sturdy and supportive pair of hiking boots or hiking shoes. Properly broken-in footwear is critical because it helps prevent blisters and hot spots, which can ruin your trip. Your shoes should fit well, be appropriate for the terrain, and offer ample ankle support. Most importantly, your feet should feel comfortable for long hours on the trail.
If you are planning on hiking in wet conditions, buy waterproof boots or shoes that include a Gore-Tex membrane to keep water out.
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When deciding what to wear on your hike, it is essential to know the weather forecast. For example, if you are hiking in a desert climate, be sure to wear lightweight fabrics that will keep you cool, such as nylon and polyester. Conversely, if you are hiking in a snowy environment, be sure to wear materials that will keep you warm and dry, such as wool and fleece.
Be sure to bring extra layers of clothing so that you can adjust your attire based on how hot or cold it is outside. The temperature can change rapidly throughout the day in some locations and make for some very uncomfortable conditions. It is better to have several layers on hand than not enough; nobody likes being cold!
It never hurts to have a rain jacket or poncho handy just in case the weather turns!
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Knowing how to navigate terrain is essential for a successful hike. You should never leave home without some sort of navigation device. Maps are the most important navigational tool you can have on your adventures because they’ll always work, regardless of cell reception or weather conditions. Use them with a compass and/or GPS to keep you heading in the right direction, so you don’t become lost.
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You should always have some sort of headlamp or flashlight with you while hiking. Which one you take is up to you. Personally, I like a headlamp because it leaves your hands free. The most important factor is to make sure that your light is durable and has good battery life, as you don’t want to be stuck in the dark at the end of a long day, trying to find your way out of the wilderness in the dark.
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Food and water are essential for any hike, whether it’s a short trek or an overnight excursion. The amount of food you’ll need depends on how long you’re hiking. You’ll also want to include some smaller snacks that you can eat as needed throughout the day. Dried fruit and nuts like trail mix, energy bars and beef jerky are good options because they provide plenty of nutrients without weighing you down too much.
Remember to always pack more water than you think you need since your body loses fluids more quickly while exercising in hot weather. Selecting a lightweight container will make your overall load easier to carry around – a water bottle or hydration pack is great because they’re easy to refill at streams or drinking fountains along the trail – but be sure that whatever you choose can hold enough fluid for all the miles ahead of you.
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A first aid kit is essential if you get injured while out on the trail. It’s not meant for major injuries but to treat minor injuries such as cuts, scrapes and blisters.
There are many options for first aid kits, including pre-made ones that are specific to hiking or you can build your own. You can purchase a small kit for yourself or a large kit for groups at your local outdoor store or online. Consider the size of your group and the duration of the trip when picking a first aid kit; if you’re going to be out in the wilderness for a week with no access to modern medicine, you’ll need more supplies than if you’re just going out on a day hike.
Suppose someone in your group is injured and you can’t get them back to help easily. In that case, it’s best to treat what you can with your limited resources and get them stabilized until help arrives instead of trying to move them too much (which could make their injury worse). The best way to prepare for this scenario is by taking a wilderness first aid course through an organization like Canadian Red Cross or St John Ambulance. The skills you learn in a first aid course are invaluable if you ever find yourself in trouble out in the wilderness.
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If you are planning a hike, it’s important to file a trip plan before you go. This can help rescuers locate you if you become lost or injured. A trip plan is simply a report of who you’re hiking with, where you’re hiking, when you expect to return, and what to do if you don’t return by your planned time.
Adventure Smart has an easy-to-use app that makes filing a trip plan with a trusted friend or family member simple.
Read Next: The 10 Hiking Essentials You Must Pack for Every Trip
The hiking gear you choose depends on what type of hike you’re doing, the time of year, and the terrain. It’s important to have the correct type of gear with you to address various situations, from rain to snow to sun. And don’t forget to practice using your equipment before going on your first hiking trip!
You don’t need to spend a ton of money on gear to enjoy hiking. Good gear can be purchased used for a fraction of the cost. Hiking is all about enjoying the experience, getting out in nature with friends or family and taking in the fresh air and beautiful scenery.
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Ready to hit the trail for your next outdoor adventure? This list of the ten essentials for hiking will make sure you stay safe and are well-prepared.
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