Before hitting the trail, make sure the day hiking essentials are packed.
Though day hiking is much less intensive than camping or climbing, there are still plenty of supplies needed to ensure a safe outing.
Short (1-3 hour hikes), or gentle hikes (not steep)
- Good, comfortable hiking boots -- This cannot be stressed enough. Something that is mildly annoying when the hike begins could be painful or even drawing blood after only one hour. Make sure the boots fit properly and cover and protect the ankle. Waterproof boots are always a bonus. (For tips on buying a good hiking boot, check out Get The Boot That Fits).
- Extra socks -- Just in case those boots aren't waterproof after all, or a stream crossing is a little deeper than expected.
- Water -- It doesn't matter how long the hike is planned for, the weather might turn out to be hotter than expected, the trail may not be shaded, or the hike might be more difficult than anticipated. It's never a bad thing to have extra water available.
- Hat - Good enough to keep both the sun and the rain off.
- Rain gear -- At the very least bring along a garbage bag, but also know there are several places that sell rain ponchos folded so tightly they'll barely take up any room in a backpack.
- First Aid kit -- It doesn't have to be anything advanced -- just some moist towelettes, bandaids and gauze in a waterproof container. Many hiking stores have pre-packed kits available that are extremely lightweight and contain more supplies than the average medicine cabinet.
- Insect Repellent/Sunscreen -- These items should almost go without saying. Both should be brought on the trail and not left in the car because there's a good chance the sunscreen will need to be reapplied during the hike.
- Snacks -- some fruit, or an energy bar to keep energy up during the hike.
- Watch -- time passes quickly on the trail, especially if there's lots to explore. Hikers should know in advance how long the hike will take in both directions and plan accordingly.
Longer (more than 3 hours), or steeper hikes
- Poles/Hiking Sticks -- Not everyone is a fan, but they can help with navigating steep downhill sections, extra balance when crossing a creek or stream, or providing assistance if a leg or ankle gets stiff or sore. The collapsable poles come in handy here -- they can be stored on the backpack until needed.
- Maps -- If hiking over long distances, or in isolated areas a map can be invaluable. Don't rely on signage being available at every junction.
- Bear spray -- Always be aware if there are bears in the area and take precautions to avoid any contact, but as a last resort, bear spray is invaluable.
Other hiking equipment to consider
- Traction for snowy conditions -- If hiking at higher altitudes snow and ice can remain on the trail long into the summer and re-appear in the early fall. There are many types of gadgets that strap onto the bottom of a hiking book to provide traction. Two of the most popular are "Yak-Traks" and "Stabilicers".
- Binoculars -- Hikers need to pause for a break or phenomenal view once in a while and binoculars can only add to the experience, especially if bird-watching is part of the appeal of the hike.
- Camera -- Some would consider this an essential. Remember the saying "take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints".
- GPS/altimeter/compass/thermometer -- The more back country the hike is, the more essential these items become.
Day-hikers should always make sure to let a friend or family member know where they're going to be hiking and when to expect them back.
The copyright of the article Day Hiking Essentials in Backpacking Gear is owned by Michelle Finch. Permission to republish Day Hiking Essentials in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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