9 Hiking Essentials To Get You Out Enjoying The Trails

There’s really nothing quite like hitting the trails to reconnecting with nature and the outdoors! It gives us a chance to unplug from our fast-paced, digital world so we can get out there to discover and explore. 

While it’s important to keep the adventure of hiking spontaneous and fun, there are definitely some essential things to bring with you before hitting the trail. I’ve compiled a list of 9 essential items to take along on every journey to keep you safe and happy.

Also, be sure to read through to the end because there’s a free checklist you can download that covers everything in this article and more!

1. Water

You would think this goes without saying, but I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen people heading out on a hike without anything to drink. It could be one of the most essential items you need to take along. 

For me, I always carry at least one 32 oz. bottle of water no matter what. However, for longer trails, carrying a few more bottles is probably necessary. Especially if you plan to hike in a hot weather environment, the more water you can take with you the better. 

“A good pair of boots should last a few years, or around 500-900 miles.”

2. Hiking Boots 

This is another item you would think goes without saying, but this also an item I’ve see people go without–even me! When I would go hiking in college on some of the local trails, I would forgo my pair of boots for my Converse high tops. Over time, this caused a lot of problems with my feet, problems that could have been prevented with a solid pair of boots. 

When it comes to figuring out what to buy, comfort and durability is important. Shoes that give you blisters and fall apart after a few long hikes are definitely a waste of money, no matter how good of a “deal” they may seem. 

A good pair of boots should last a few years, or around 500-900 miles. So be sure to seek out a reputable company known for making shoes with high quality materials.

3. Food

Nine times about of ten, there’s usually no place to pick up food out on the trail. Building a snack stand in the middle of the desert or on the top of a mountain has its obvious problems, so you’ll probably need to pack something with you to eat.

Like water, how much you should bring is dependent on how long your hike will be. It’s always good to have something with you even if the trip is short, you never know what unforeseen problems could arise. 

Some great snacks to pack along are things like granola, energy bars or jerky. These are foods that will give you sustained energy to last you throughout your trip. For hikes lasting most of the day, it’s a good idea to bring a bigger meal (or two) with you.

4. Proper Clothing

Always be sure to check the weather ahead of time before you head out and dress accordingly. Dress lighter for those hot weather hikes and heavier on colder days as heat exhaustion or hypothermia can be better prevented by wearing the appropriate clothing.     

5. First Aid

An essential item for both long and short trips, it is important to not only carry a first aid kit but also know how to use it. A pre-assembled kit is the best bet to mitigate any confusion should a problem arise.

The basics of any kit should include adhesive bandages, blister treatment, gauze pads, disinfecting ointment, OTC pain medications and Nitrile gloves. More items can be added depending on personal needs and requirements. 

Also be sure to carry a guide with you that provides instructions on how to handle any medical emergencies. While ordinarily you can search this up with your phone, depending on where you hike, you may not have service to do this. 

6. Fire 

Depending on the length of your hike, it’s a good idea to bring along some sort of fire starter in case things go wrong. Especially on those remote hikes where help may take awhile to arrive, having a way to get a fire going to keep warm is a must.

When looking for a good fire starter, the key is for it to ignite quickly and sustain heat for more than a few seconds. Waterproof ability is also important so make sure what you’re using is either waterproof or stored in a waterproof container.    

Good fire starters can include waterproof matches, magnesium flint striker, or a high quality lighter. 

“While your smartphone can often tell you the weather across the globe, you’ll need to have reliable navigation when your hiking in areas without a solid connection.”

7. Map

A paper map isn’t just a relic of the past! While your smartphone can tell you the weather across the globe or what your friends are up to every minute of the day, you’ll need to have reliable navigation when your hiking in areas without a solid connection. 

Paper maps not only provide dependable directions, knowing how to read a map just makes you look cool! Plus, a map never runs out of batteries or require a two-step verification to open. 

Along with a map, it’s also a good idea to bring a compass in case you become disoriented in unfamiliar territory. 

8. Knife

A good knife can come in handy for many things out on the trail. Repairs, first aid and food prep can be made easier with a handy pocketknife, especially those with additional tools and features. 

Before carrying a knife however, it’s important to understand how to use it safely. Learning how to open and close the blade without getting cut as well as knowing how to properly clean and sharpen it is essential to keep you and others safe. 

9. Trekking Poles

For those difficult hikes over rough terrain, a good pair of hiking poles are great to keep you stable and balanced. While they’re not necessarily an essential item to bring, for those who want to reduce the impact on their knees and increase hiking longevity, a good pair of poles are a great item to have along. 

It’s important to set your trekking poles to the right length. For most hikes, it should be set so when holding onto the pole with it touching the ground near your foot, your arm is at a 90º angle. 

In addition to being helpful for keeping stable, trekking poles can be used as tent supports for an ultralight shelter. This can help you shed weight on those long-distance trips. 

Conclusion

With these essentials along, you’ll be more than well prepared for your next hiking adventure! Be sure to download our free interactive and printable checklists that covers everything mentioned in this article and more.