Day hiking can take many forms. From casually hiking a local trail or conquering a tricky summit. Even though the difficulty, duration and intensity levels may be different, you are still hiking and should be prepared. The outdoors is a very unpredictable place and the smallest things can mean the difference between a minor mishap and a major dilemma. Therefore here are 8 hiking essentials you should pack for a day hike.
Adequate clothing
The main thing you will need is adequate clothing. If you are hiking you need to be dressed accordingly both for comfort and for the weather conditions. Therefore, invest in a good pair of walking boots (remember to break them in) and check the weather forecast before setting off – you do not want to be too hot, cold or wet to enjoy your hike.
Extra Clothing
So, you dressed for the conditions but weather and temperature can change quickly outdoors. Therefore, it’s a good idea to pack some extra clothes (to change into or to layer) in your day pack. It’s ideal to bring an extra layer of insulation clothing to help you keep warm in case the temperature drops or you find yourself out later than expected.
Food and Snacks
Have a good-sized nutritious meal before you set off, hiking can really zap your energy, especially if you plan to take a long or strenuous hike. Also, remember to pack snacks to sustain your energy levels while hiking. Dried fruit and nuts, energy bars etc are all great ideas. If you plan to spend the full day out, pack sandwiches, freeze-dried meals etc too.
First Aid Kit
Personal safety should be one of your top priorities when outdoors. Therefore, packing a travel first aid kit complete with supplies for minor injuries is a hiking essential when taking a day hike. Having the basics to treat a blister, sting, graze etc could mean the difference between carrying on with your hike and having to turn around and go home.
Navigation
We tend to rely on our phones for directions which is great when we have a full battery and a strong single. However, sometimes technology lets us down. Therefore, a compass and a map are must-haves for every hike, even if you’re hiking with a group or a guide just in case you get lost. Just be sure you learn how to use them before you set off.
Source of Light
Even if you don’t plan on staying out past dark, always bring a good source of light. Often time gets away from you and hikes take longer than expected and sometimes we simply get lost. Therefore having a light source (torch/ headlamp etc) is vital to ensure you can still use your map and compass, see where you are going and also be visible to others.
Sun Protection
Even if the forecast says it’s going to be overcast, it doesn’t mean you don’t need proper sun protection. Even on the cloudest of days a good sunscreen, polarised sunglasses, SPF lip balm and a brimmed hat are all hiking essentials to keep yourself sun-safe. A sore sunburn and cracked lips aren’t things you want to remind you of a fun day of hiking.
Water
Water should be at the top of any hiking essentials for a day hike list. You’ll want to keep yourself hydrated throughout your hike. Therefore, pack enough water for your hike (plus a bit more if you can carry it) especially on warm days when water will cool you down. Water also helps avoid injuries as it helps keep the muscles and joints working properly.
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