Hiking Hub

Basic Outdoor Gear Checklist: What to Bring on a Hike

This is not by any means a comprehensive list, but the items mentioned below are considered essentials. We understand there are different types of hiking, and each requires its special hiking gear, but this list of outdoor gear is a starting point:

1. Clothing

Hiking is all about layering. The safest route when it comes to hiking apparel is to layer. In other terms, add or remove clothes before you start to sweat. Shirts and shorts are convenient for warm weather and safe terrain. Pants, jackets, and vests protect against abrasions and work better in too hot or cold weather.

2. Shoes and socks

No matter how much your outdoor gear is great, if you have blisters from ill-fitting shoes, your hiking trip is ruined. You’re advised to try on your shoes and socks before hitting the trails.

3. Clothing accessories

Your head, hands, and waist may often need extra outdoor gear. In chilly weather, a hat or a beanie keeps your head warm, while gloves/mittens offer your hands protection against extreme cold. In summer too, a cap is useful to shield your head from the sun. And a belt to hold up your pants is always a good idea!

4. Bag

You need something to carry your outdoor gear in. That’s what bags are for. But for hiking, the options are plenty. A backpack is recommended. Backpacks come in waterproof and water-resistant materials. The first keeps the water from leaking into your bag. The second does too, as long as your stuff is kept in a dry sack inside. Also, a waist bag is good for quick access to certain items.

5. Bottle

Even on short hikes, a water bottle is an indispensable piece of hiking equipment. To keep your body hydrated throughout a short hike, a liter bottle should be enough. The longer the hike, the more water you should carry with you. Flasks are also useful for either keeping your water cold or hot for longer periods.

6. Binoculars

This great invention brings you closer to wildlife without you disturbing it. We hike to view and enjoy nature, including mountains, lakes, stars, and sometimes even cities, and this piece of outdoor equipment makes all of this possible. The best hiking binoculars should be compact and lightweight with high optical performance.

7. Compass

A compass is a navigation tool the purpose of which is to help you locate your position and tell you the actual direction you’re heading in. It’s an essential outdoor gear that prevents you from getting lost. You may hike for days on a trail and never need a compass, but you may also go on a short hike and need one.

8. Walking poles

Walking poles or walking sticks act as another set of limbs that help you share a load of your weight and bag more evenly across the body. They add more balance and stability to your body, especially as you walk through uneven or steep terrain, water crossings, or loose rocks.

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