Hiking is an ideal way to enjoy the outdoors. With a little forethought and planning, almost anyone can enjoy a day of trekking. And whether you hike on a trail to the mountains or on a footpath to the sea, you’ll need to bring along some necessary gear. In addition to a map, hiking boots, and outerwear, here are some suggestions to get you started. If you can’t find what you need on this list, simply browse at Bass Pro Shops/Cabela’s via this link. (I am an affiliate of the company and earn a commission on products purchased. These items cost the same as if you had purchased directly from the store.)
Hiking Essentials
- Hiking Day Backpack: You’ll need a backpack appropriate for your latest adventure. If you are going on a fairly short hike, you may find a daypack useful. The Osprey Daylite Hiking Backpack is a simple, lightweight backpack perfect for this use. It may be light, but it is very durable. Plus, it attaches directly to several of Osprey’s travel and backpacking packs. See: Osprey Daylite Hiking Backpack (Note: See “Hiking Extras” for a larger backpack)
- Water Bottle: When hiking, you should consider consuming 200–300 calories per hour. You’ll also want to drink a half-liter of water per hour when enjoying moderate activity in moderate temperatures. So, you’ll need a good water bottle. Camelbak, a well-respected brand, offers several types of water bottles. The CamelBak Eddy+ Water Bottle is lightweight and durable. It features a high-flow drink cap with a silicone bite valve and built-in straw. See: CamelBak Eddy+ Water Bottle
- Hiking Socks: You’ll want to consider wearing naturally-regulating socks good for all trail conditions. Darn Tough makes light but rugged hiking socks. These high-performance hiking socks are made of a fine-gauge Merino Wool blend and are perfect for keeping comfortable in demanding trail conditions. See: Darn Tough Treeline Light Hiker Micro Crew Wool Socks for Ladies or Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Hiking Socks for Men
- Compass: You may have thought a compass was only for Boy Scouts, but it is an essential item for hikers. I like the ability to secure my gear and enhance my wayfinding capability at the same time. The Coghlan’s Carabiner Compass is ideal for this use. We own one and it is constructed of lightweight, yet durable aluminum. See: Coghlan’s Carabiner Compassis
- Sun Hat: In addition to sunscreen and sunglasses, you’ll find that a sturdy sun hat will come in handy. Wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your hair, eyes, and skin from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. The Stellar Washed Boonie Sun Hat accomplishes this as its ventilated crown offers maximum air movement to keep your head cool. See: Stellar Washed Boonie Sun Hat
Hiking Extras
Consider these extra items, and you’ll be sure to always have the right gear when you are out on the trail
- Headlamp: Black Diamond Spot 350 Headlamp – Aluminum
- Trekking poles: Ascend Acadia Trekking Poles
- Binoculars: Bushnell PowerView 2 Binoculars
- First-aid kit: Bass Pro Shops Backpacker First Aid Kit
- Book: Wilderness Survival Basic Safety for Outdoor Adventures
- Backpack: Osprey Hikelite 26 Hiking Backpack – Black
Considerations
- Check the weather forecast and make sure you dress for the conditions
- Research the location. Review your route and check for updates and closings on the hosting organization’s website
- In addition to water, pack enough snacks like jerky, nuts, and energy bars
- Consider bringing an extra set of clothes or at the very least, extra socks
- On the trail, heed signs and the advice of rangers
- Know your limits and the limits of everyone in your party
- Take your time at water crossings
Check out “Top 20 Tips for Hiking with Kids” or “Bass Pro Shops/Cabela’s: Hiking with Fido”
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