Day hike essentials

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CLOTHING & FOOTWEAR	FOOD & WATER
Base layer T-shirt (moisture-wicking)	Water or hydration pack (~ 0.5 L per hour hiking)
Long-sleeve shirt (for sun & bug protection)	Lunch (sandwiches, wraps, etc.)
Quick-drying pants or shorts	Snacks (energy bars, trail mix, dried fruit)
Hiking boots or sturdy shoes	Extra food (in case of emergency)
Hat (for sun protection)	Optional
Sunglasses	Energy gels/drinks
Lightweight fleece or jacket	Water purification tablets or filter
Optional (check the weather forecast)	SAFETY & FIRST AID
Rain gear	Flashlight or headlamp
Extra socks (synthetic or wool)	First aid kit (including blister treatment)
HIKING GEAR & NAVIGATION TOOLS	Multi-tool or knife
Daypack (20-35 liters)	Whistle
Hiking poles	Personal ID & Emergency contact information
Trail map or guidebook	Sunscreen, Lip balm, Toilet Paper
Compass	Insect repellent
GPS device or smartphone with hiking app	Emergency Shelter (blanket, bivy sack or tarp)
Optional	HEADING INTO BEAR COUNTRY?
Ice cleats/Crampons (seasonal)	Hike in a group of 3 or more!
Gaiters (for wet or snowy conditions)	Bear spray (carry on your chest or belt)
Altimeter watch	Noise maker (bear bell, air horn, bear banger)

 

Additional items for overnight hike

CLOTHING	COOKING
Extra set of clothes	Portable stove and fuel
Thermal underwear (if cold weather)	Cooking pot or pan
Gloves or mittens (if cold weather)	Utensils (spoon, fork, knife)
SHELTER	Lightweight mug or cup
Tent or lightweight tarp	Food for dinner and breakfast
Sleeping bag & pad (appropriate for temperature)	HYGIENE
ADDITIONAL SAFETY & OTHER COMFORTS	Toothbrush and toothpaste
Bear-proof food container/bag (if in bear country)	Wet wipes or biodegradable soap
Lightweight camp chair (optional)	Small towel
Book or journal (optional)	Hand sanitizer
Repair kit (duct tape, zip ties, etc.)	Feminine hygiene (if applicable)