You have set a date for your hike, you have bought the perfect backpack and now it is time for packing up.
Where do you even start?
At your desk with a pen and a piece of paper!
Write down all the things you might need to take with you, give yourself a moment to think about what you might have forgotten, and then – downsize, downsize, downsize!
We have compiled a list that you can use as a starting point.
Print it out, circle things you will need, or cross out the ones you will not take with you.
It is up to you!
Just remember to only pack things you need because you will have to carry it all on your shoulders and every bit of extra weight will slow you down and wear you out more easily.
So pack thoughtfully!
What to bring on a hiking trip
Commodities
- Food (fruits, nuts, bread, energy bars, high energy and high protein snacks)
- Drinking water
- Clothes that you can layer when the weather gets colder
- Tent, sleeping bag and sleeping pad if you are planning an overnight trip
- Towel and toiletries
Safety essentials
- Emergency blanket or survival bag
- First aid kit that includes: bandages, clean gauze, antibacterial cream, sunburn or itch relievers
- Sunscreen
- Maps, GPS or a compass
- Pocket knife
- Flashlight or headlamp (do not forget to bring extra batteries)
- Bug spray
- Whistle
- Personal locator beacon
Clothing
- T-shirts or long-sleeve tops made from natural fibers (wool) to regulate body temperature in all weather conditions
- Enough underwear and socks
- Quick-drying pants or shorts
- Shirts and jackets that you can layer – even in hot season, it tends to be cool in the evenings!
- Rain jacket
- Waterproof pants
- Cap and sunglasses
- Sturdy, comfortable, and waterproof boots
- Sandals for summer trips
- Gaiters
- Gloves, scarf and a warm hat for winter trips
Gadgets
- Multifunctional watch
- Cellphone in a waterproof case
- GPS units
- Camera and accessories
- Binoculars
- Portable charger
Cooking
- Matchsticks in a waterproof container
- Water purification tablets or water purification system
- Small, lightweight pans or pots and utensils
- Small coffee maker for coffee lovers
- Backpacking stove
- Compact cookware set
Trekking essentials
- Trekking poles or a sturdy stick
- Garbage bags
Extra hiking equipment
- Daypack
- Rain cover
- Packing cubes and extra compartments
- Hammock
- Compressible pillow
- Plastic dishes and utensils
- Water bladder
Spotted a gadget or piece of equipment you want to buy before your trip?
Amazon is the best place to look for cool hiking gear.
Check out our lists of cool hiking gadgets (link: TBA) and lightweight hiking equipment (link: TBA)!
Now that you know what you need, read our ultimate packing guide (link: TBA) for even more tips and tricks to pack like a pro.
