Day Hiking Packing List

Whether you’re an experienced or a beginner hiker, it’s important to make sure you’ve packed all of the hiking essentials before leaving on a hike. In this hiking packing list, we’ll review the items you should bring with you on a day hike. I’ll also offer my honest advice on how to select hiking gear and clothes that will keep you comfortable and safe.

This hiking checklist is for day hikes, and I’ve written a separate packing guide for backpacking if that’s of interest. Also if you need a refresher, check out my guide to day hiking.

Day Hiking Packing List

How to Select Hiking Gear

When shopping for hiking equipment, one essential piece of advice I have is to invest in high quality items. High-quality gear ensures adequate protection and comfort. Your clothing and gear will also endure significant wear and tear from the elements while hiking. As I’ve learned through personal experience, inexpensive options often fail to stand the test of time.

If you’re on a tighter budget, you can still find items at various price points. Look into gently-used options, which are often available at significant discounts. However tight your budget may be, I would not advise compromising on your backpack, shoes, and socks. 

Now, let’s dive into this hiking packing list! I’ve included many items that I personally use and love, which should hopefully make your decision-making process a little easier. These items have been with me for years, and you’ll see pictures of me wearing and using them throughout this blog.

Hiking Packing List

Logistic Items

Trail Map. I recommend using an app such as AllTrails that allows you to download and use hiking maps offline. It’s a good idea to bring a paper map as well (make sure you know how to read topography) in case your phone dies.

Offline Maps. Expect limited to no phone service on the road to the trailhead and on the trail itself. Download Google Maps of the area in advance.

Permits. If applicable.

Park Entrance. Bring your entrance fee or National or State Parks Pass, where applicable.

Wallet Items

Phone

Hiking Packing List Essentials

Hiking Backpack
~25 L is a good size for a day hike. For winter hiking, you may need a larger pack to hold extra gear and clothes. Your backpack will take a beating, so get one that is durable and comfortable. Some features to look for are straps to attach equipment, padded shoulder straps, a waist/hip strap, and an interior pocket to hold a water reservoir. 
26 L Backpack

Rain Cover for Backpack
Mountain weather is unpredictable and you should be prepared for rain. Buy a rain cover separately if your backpack doesn’t come with one.

Trekking Poles 
Trekking poles will save your knees on descents and provide stability when crossing streams and rocky terrain.

Hiking Shoes

When it comes to hiking shoes, there are many options to choose from, including:

• Trail Runners: Lightweight and quick-drying, ideal for hikers who are sure-footed and value agility.
• Hiking Shoes: Offer more support than trail runners but are less rigid than hiking boots. Some are available with waterproofing. 
• Hiking Boots: Heavy-duty and suitable for winter conditions or when carrying a substantial load.
• Important Note: Running shoes and general athletic shoes are NOT recommended for hiking due to their minimal traction, which will cause you to slip.

If you can only pick one type of shoe, I’d go for a medium-weight hiking shoe due to its versatility and durability. These are my top picks:
Women’s Hiking Shoe
Men’s Hiking Shoe

If you’re interested in getting trail runners (which I personally love), these are my recommendations:
Women’s Trail Runners
Men’s Trail Runners

Hiking Clothing

For hiking clothing, you want to avoid cotton at all costs. When cotton gets wet (whether from sweat, rain, or mud puddles), it dries very slowly. At best, this will lead to blisters and chafing and, at worst, hypothermia. Instead look for quick-drying, moisture-wicking materials such as wool. Also look for non-bulky, streamlined pieces that can be layered.

Hiking Socks
Use moisture-wicking, quick-drying socks that will cushion your feet and prevent blisters. 
Women’s Hiking Socks
Men’s Hiking Socks

Hiking Pants
I recommend pants that are specifically designed for hiking because they are durable and will not tear when scratched by rocks and branches. Leave your nice leggings at home; on the trail I’ve seen too many yoga pants with hiking-induced holes!

Hiking pants should be slightly water resistant and quick-drying. Pants with a slightly loose fit will protect you from mosquito bites, plus you can layer thermals underneath them if it’s cold.
Women’s Hiking Pants
Men’s Hiking Pants

Hiking Shirt
Pick a quick-drying shirt, because you will sweat. Shoulder coverage is important to protect you from sunburns and to also prevent the straps of your backpack from digging into your skin.
Women’s Hiking Shirt
Men’s Hiking Shirt

Lightweight Long-Sleeve Shirt
This loose layer is essential to protect your skin in areas with strong sun or mosquitos. 
Women’s Long-Sleeve Shirt
Men’s Long-Sleeve Shirt

Light Jacket
Fleece is a light yet warm choice and can be layered.
Women’s Fleece Jacket
Men’s Fleece Jacket

Cold Weather Clothes
If applicable, pack thermal layers, rain pants, a puffy jacket, a hat, and gloves. The weather may change on the trail (especially if you’re ascending to higher elevation), so pack some spares in your backpack.
Women’s Base Layer Top and Bottoms, Rain Pants, Puffy Jacket
Men’s Base Layer Top and Bottoms, Rain Pants, Puffy Jacket
Wool Hat and Touchscreen Gloves

Rain Jacket
I always take a rain jacket with me when hiking because I’ve seen many forecasted sunny days transform into sudden downpours. A rain jacket also doubles as a windbreaker.
Women’s Rain Jacket
Men’s Rain Jacket

Hiking Packing List: Accessories

Hat. Protect yourself from sun exposure.

Sunglasses

Head Buff. Keep sweat and hair under control

Swimsuit and Microfiber Towel (optional). Bring these if you’re going somewhere with a lake, river, or waterfall to swim in.

Microspikes (optional). If you’re going on icy trails, you’ll need these.

Miscellaneous Hiking Packing List Items

Sunscreen

Lip Balm with SPF

Mosquito Spray. I love this natural mosquito repellent because it’s very effective and doesn’t contain harmful chemicals.

Mosquito Head Net. Mosquitos can be unbearable in some places. I use this to prevent them from getting in my eyes and mouth or biting my face.

Toilet Paper, Trowel, and Trash Bag to pack out used toilet paper. Bathrooms may not be available on the trail.

Emergency Medicine & First-Aid Kit

Pocket Knife and Lighter. For emergency situations.

Electronics Hiking Packing List

Portable Charger and Cable
Your phone battery can drain for many reasons (map usage, taking photos, cold weather). Make sure you’re never without charge.

Headlamp and Spare Batteries
A headlamp is a hiking safety essential and will come in handy for a variety of situations (hiking back in the dark because the hike takes longer than you expected or you got injured, or for doing sunrise hikes).

Garmin inReach (optional)
Sends your GPS coordinates and calls for help in emergency situations. It functions in remote places without service and can give you peace of mind, especially if you’re hiking alone.

Photography Equipment
Bear in mind that drones are prohibited in many parks. Check local regulations.

Hiking Packing List: Food and Water

Water
Bring at least 1 L water for every 2 hours you plan to hike. Bring more in hot weather and for trails with steep ascents.

Water Reservoir or Bottle
I love using water reservoirs because they make it easy to take quick sips without stopping. 

Water Filter
Lighten your load and carry less water by hiking with a water filter. Just confirm that there are reliable water sources where you plan to hike.

Electrolytes
Electrolyte tablets help prevent dehydration and fatigue, especially on strenuous hikes in hot weather and high elevation. I found them very effective in reducing the headaches and cramps I often get on long hikes.

Hiking Snacks
Some non-perishable ideas for hiking snacks include:

• Dried fruit and fresh fruit. Make sure to pack out the peels with you.
• Granola bars 
• Protein bars. These are my favorite! They’re delicious, nutritious, plant-based, and do well in heat.
• Candy. Sour Patch kids are the best motivator during grueling ascents. If you’re hiking in hot weather, avoid bringing chocolate because it will melt.
• Crackers. I usually bring Cheez-Its 
• Protein shake powder
• Roasted seaweed sheets
• Nuts

Packed Lunch
Some non-perishable ideas for lunch on the trail:

• Tortillas or crackers
• Hard cheeses such as cheddar (individual portion packs are great)
• Vegetarian foods:
  • Dried edamame
  • Dried chickpeas
  • Dehydrated hummus
  • Sun dried tomatoes
• Meat:
  • Tuna packets
  • Salmon packets
  • Jerky sticks
  • Dry Salami
• Individual packets of mayo, mustard, and ketchup
• Individual packets of nut butter and jam 
• Fresh carrots and mini cucumbers

Hiking Packing List: What to Keep in Your Car

Keep extra water and snacks in your car. Baby wipes and a change of clothes and shoes will allow you to freshen up after a hike.

Thanks for reading! I hope this hiking checklist helps you prepare everything you need before your next hiking trip. Questions? Thoughts? Leave your comments below, I’d love to hear from you.

Head to my Hiking and Camping Page for more tips, trail guides, and hiking inspiration.

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