I am out hiking at least once a month, and probably every weekend from spring thru fall. I don’t remember how I got into hiking, but I am so glad that I did because it has changed my life. There have been several times I have felt stressed or overwhelmed but after a hike, I felt better. Being outside and hiking has grounded me in several different ways. This is just my listing of hiking essentials, but everyone is different.
What I bring on a hike has been a lot of trial and error. There have been times that I have forgotten something and regretted it. I also like to be prepared just in case, and some people think I’m overprepared. Sometimes I know where I am going to hike and sometimes it depends on how much time I have and the distance.
I consider myself a beginner hiker and these are things that I consider essential for myself. From the research that I have done, there are several factors to keep in mind on a hike like length, duration, time of year, location, and weather. What also works for me, may not work for you.
Bag
This depends on the distance and personal preference. For me, this is a #1a and #1b on hiking essentials. I don’t like holding things, so I take my bag on every hike. I also keep a journal and/or book with me on every hike. My bag is a yellow Quest 2L Hydration bag that I got from Dick’s Sporting Goods. I like this one because it’s lightweight but still holds a lot if needed. The backpack also has a water bladder so I don’t have to bring bottled water.
Water
Many people would have this as their #1a/1b on hiking essentials because hydration is super important. I am not known for drinking enough water, but when I am out hiking I try to bring more than enough. There have been a few times I have forgotten water and didn’t hike very long that day. Sometimes the unexpected might happen so you’ll need that water. I like having the bladder instead of a water bottle because the hose is right next to my face. I have noticed that I drink from it more often than if I have a water bottle. My water is also super cold with ice, which feels nice on my back during the summer.
Phone
I bring my phone with me all the time. Sometimes I use my phone, and sometimes it stays in my bag. If I’m not familiar with the trail, I use the AllTrails app for navigation. Sometimes I will bring my headphones and listen to music, but most of the time I just enjoy being in the moment. Also if I am on long hikes or trips, I turn on my location so a few people know where I am at. I also use my phone to take pictures or videos. I’m obsessed with bridges and waterfalls. Also if I see animals it totally makes my day too. The last time I was at Forest Park, I saw 5 deer that got super close to me. it was the best ever.
Book/Journal
This is my personal preference on if it really should be on the list of hiking essentials, but it is to me. I bring a book with me because I like to stop, read, and enjoy the moment. During one of my winter hikes, I stopped to read with snow flurries. It was so peaceful because it was so quiet and the snow made it look pretty. My book is usually a self-help/self-development book. I am working on changing my limited beliefs and my mindset. I bring my journal with me because I like to write out my feelings. Journalling has always been therapeutic for me. When I am writing I can see things from different perspectives without being emotional. There have been times that I have written things that I didn’t even know that I was feeling or thinking.
Snacks
This depends on how long the trail is going to be or how long I plan on being out. My snacks very on each hike. My favorites are beef jerky, beef sticks, cheerios, and Hersey kisses. Everyone has their own snacks that they like to bring.
Wet Wipes
I carry wet wipes in my backpack and in my car. I use wet wipes for so many different things. They are so multi-purpose. If I don’t have wet wipes, I have hand santizer. This is not essential for most people, but I don’t like to have my hands dirty. I always have wet wipes in my car because I don’t like to sit in my own sweat.
Tazer/Pepper Spray
I have this but I have never had to use it. I also have never felt unsafe when I’m hiking or traveling. I didn’t have these for a long time. I just got them recently because I am hiking more and traveling overnight.
Sunscreen
Just like water, I am really bad at applying sunscreen. I am getting better because I have been getting sunburnt in the most oddest places. (Odd for me-On my neck, behind my knee) I got SunBum sunscreen trial set with my Ulta points, and I can’t recommend it enough. Thet set had chapstick, spf, scalp spray, and after-sun lotion. The kit came with a bag, so it’s super easy to grab and go.
Sunglasses
My favorite sunglasses are GOODR. I have several pairs because they are perfect for hiking and running. They stay in place and I never worry about them falling off or losing their shape.
Knife
I have a knife but I haven’t put it in my hiking bag. It has always stayed in my car. Knife was on several lists of other hiking bloggers. Mine is not only a knife but can do 18 other things.
Overview
There are so many factors that can come into play while hiking. This is my list of things I would recommend that have been successful for me. My biggest piece of advice is to find what works best for you because what works for me may not work for you. I think it also depends on your goal or intention. If you are waiting to become an overnight hiker the list is going to be different. I hike during the day then car camp at night. Feel free to check out my list here.
