Essential Gear to Pack for a Hiking Trip

03.06.25

THE 10 ESSENTIAL ITEMS YOU NEED FOR A SUCCESSFUL HIKE

Whether you're heading out for a few hours or an entire weekend, having the right gear can make or break your hiking experience. From safety to comfort, here’s a checklist of the must-have items every hiker should pack before hitting the trail.

1. QUALITY HIKING SHOES

Your feet are your foundation. A pair of sturdy, comfortable hiking boots or shoes adapted to your terrain is non-negotiable. Make sure they’re well broken in before your trip.

2. A PROPER BACKPACK

Choose a backpack with:

Padded straps for comfort
Chest and waist belts for weight distribution
Multiple compartments for organisation

Size depends on the hike:

Day hike: 20–30L
Overnight: 40L+

3. WATER & HYDRATION SYSTEM

Always carry enough water.

Use a hydration bladder or reusable water bottles
For longer hikes, bring a water filter or purification tablets

4. SNACKS & ENERGY FOOD

Pack light but high-energy food:

Dried fruits
Nuts
Energy bars
Sandwiches for longer treks

Eat small portions regularly to stay fuelled.

? 5. NAVIGATION TOOLS

Never rely on your phone alone.

Map & compass
GPS device or downloaded offline maps
Trail app as a backup

6. WEATHER-APPROPRIATE CLOTHING

Layering is key:

Base layer: Moisture-wicking
Mid layer: Insulation (like a fleece)
Outer layer: Waterproof and windproof

Don’t forget a hat and gloves — even in summer weather can change fast.

7. FIRST AID KIT

A small, lightweight first aid kit should include:

Plasters
Blister pads
Antiseptic wipes
Painkillers
Tape
Any personal medication

8. HEADLAMP OR TORCH

Even for a day hike, always carry a light source with spare batteries — getting caught out at dusk is more common than you think.

9. MULTI-TOOL OR KNIFE

Useful for:

Cutting rope
Opening food
Quick repairs
Emergencies

10. EXTRAS THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Trekking poles: Reduce strain on knees
Sunscreen & sunglasses: Even in cloudy weather
Emergency blanket
Trash bag to carry out your rubbish

FINAL WORD

Being well-equipped means hiking smarter and safer. Don’t wait until you’re halfway up the trail to realise you forgot something crucial. Use this checklist to prepare and hike with confidence — nature is best enjoyed when you're ready for it.

Explore our gear collection and find everything you need for your next hike.