Hiking Day Pack ChecKlist
As you prepare to journey into the great wilderness, there are some things you should pack, even for just a day trip.
What you pack will depend on many factors including weather, terrain, and how long you’ll be out. If it’s winter, you’ll need heavier clothes than if it’s summer. Your equipment will vary as well. Different seasons require different items. Additionally, different weather conditions and different locations will also require different equipment. It’s always best yo be prepared for anything nature may throw at you.
The 10 Essentials
If you want to travel, these are the bare minimums you should consider packing to ensure your safety and comfort:
- Map, compass, GPS device
- Headlamp, flashlight, and batteries for both
- Light shelter (one person tent)
- Sunscreen, at least SPF 30
- Knife and multitool
- First Aid Kit
- Light weight food. Energy bars, dried fruit, and instant drink mix.
- Water. Always have a canteen or large water bottle, plus an extra.
- Lighter, matches, striker stick (for starting camp fire)
- An extra set of clothes, including underwear and two pairs of socks.
Those are the minimums. They’ll provide the basics for your needs, but there are many other things that will make the hike even more enjoyable and safer.
Below, divided into categories, is the rest of what a truly prepared hiker will pack:
GEAR
- Identification, two sets. The original on your person and another copied set to leave with your itinerary in your car under the front seat.
- Itinerary. To be left under the front seat in your car. If there is a problem, this is the first place rangers will look.
- Extra SPF. It will protect your skin if you’re stranded for a lengthy time.
- Toilet paper or wipes. This is obvious, but the wipes can also be used for cleaning your body.
- Plastic Bags. Both for leaving a clean trail behind you and for additional cover if needed.
- Whistle. Good for emergencies and scaring off animals.
CLOTHING
- Extra hiking shorts and/or hiking pants. Heaviness based on climate.
- Extra underwear. 2 sets of moisture wicking to keep you dry. Women should pack an extra sports bra.
- Extra Socks. At least 3 pairs, preferably wool.
- Moisture wicking T-shirt.
- Lightweight, long-sleeved shirt or top.
- Good hiking boots or shoes with good traction.
WEATHER READY EXTRAS
- Rain jacket
- Warm jacket
- Long underwear
- Gloves
- Warm hat
FOOD and WATER
- Lunch and snack or energy bars.
- An extra day’s food.
- Reusable water bottle.
- Water filtration equipment (water purifier straws work very well) or water purification tablets.
OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT
- Sun hat
- Rain pants
- Bandana x2
- Blister treatment
- Insect repellant
- Lip balm
- Binoculars
- Journal or notebook and pen. Put a couple extra pens in your pack.
- Guidebook of the area.
- Cell phone and solar charger. You won’t find any outlets in the woods.
- Camera.
In your trek through the wilderness, these things will provide a better measure of safety and comfort. It may sound like a lot, but once you learn to pack your backpack well, they’ll be easy to include. They’ll also allow you to have a much more exciting adventure as you encounter all the wonders of the wilderness and the beauty of nature. Have a great hike!
