Hiking Gear Checklist for Day Hiking

I was thinking today on what must certanly be on a hiking gear checklist for hikers that are just starting out.

With this in your mind, I created the list below as a general guide from what you ought to be looking to obtain when having your hiking gear together for each day hike.

Hiking Trousers or Hiking Shorts

Suitable hiking trousers are a must. Waterproof is always an excellent idea. I prefer ones with air vent’s in them which may be opened allowing better air circulation in to keep your legs dry as your sweat is allowed to wick far from the skin. I also like hiking trousers with detachable bottoms to allow them to easily double up as shorts.

Hiking Fleece

A necessity for cooler temperatures. A great hiking fleece will keep you warm and dry under the right Waterproof hiking jacket.

Base Layers

You will need to make sure to have adequate base layers. The very first base layer is close to your skin so, like your hiking trousers, you would like breathability to let sweat wick away comfortably. The colder it is, the more layers you need. Always good to carry an extra 1 or 2 with you merely in case.

Gaiters

In the event that you is going to be wading through marsh, water, snow, etc. Gaiters are actually useful to hold your feet and your boots drier.

Hiking Hat

If it’s cold when you’re hiking an excellent woolen hat is a superb addition to have. Worn under the hood of your waterproof jacket, it can keep your mind nice and toasty! Alternatively, if it’s blistering hot and sunlight is beating down, a baseball hat or beach-style hiking hat will protect you from any harmful rays.

Hiking Gloves

These must be waterproof, wind resistant and ideally leaving you with some mobility in the hands for grasping, opening, etc.

Hiking Socks

Good socks are as important as good boots. It’s worth getting good hiking socks that complement your hiking boots or shoes to make sure maximum comfort and avoid the dreaded blister!

Day or Technical pack

You needless to say need something to carry your extra gear and some basic supplies in so a comfortable day pack in your back is really a must.

Hiking Boots and Shoes

Of key importance when hiking. You will need the right hiking boots or shoes for the climate and weather you are hiking in. It takes to be a good fit and your boot or shoe must certanly be well broken in. It’s advisable to break them in, in your house or just around the block before ever using them on a hike. Always wear your hiking socks when breaking a hiking boot in!

Waterproof Hiking Jacket

Really depends on what climate you are hiking in but invariably it will rain sooner or later which means you have to have the right waterproof hiking jacket with you. There are numerous options to choose from, many of which may have detachable layers and so can be adapted to be used all year-round.

Extra Hiking Clothing

Extra clothing is a must if you are moving in and out of different temperatures and weather which can happen effortlessly as you ascend further up a mountain. Always good to possess much more than less I think.

This list is not exhaustive but it does list out a few of the key things you ought to be taking with you on your day hike. Being as prepared as you can will make certain that you’ve as comfortable and enjoyable a hike as possible.