As a former member of Mountaineers in Washington state, bringing my hiking essentials has become second nature for my outdoor adventures. Taking overall precautions and planning for safety ensures an enjoyable outing, knowing you have the essentials if needed. Here are the basics, plus the Mountaineers Ten Essentials™ for your day hiking essentials checklist.
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Day Hiking Essentials Checklist
Basics for Day Hiking Essentials
There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing. – Norwegian Proverb
Being from Seattle, REI’s headquarters, I always purchase all my hiking and outdoor gear as a co-op member. REI.com customers can enjoy free shipping to any of REI’s 138+ stores nationwide.
Being a past member of the Pacific Northwest’s outdoor community, Mountaineers, these hiking essentials were engrained in me for good. These recommendations are general regarding weather. Obviously, you will need to customize your list for your weather and location’s conditions. I’ve linked to my REI favorites.
Related: 20 Amazing, Must-do Hiking Trails in Washington State
Plus, Mountaineers Ten Essentials™
In addition to the basics, I am sharing the Mountaineers Ten Essentials.™ You can sprain an ankle in your bedroom and weather can change in a heartbeat. So, here’s the common sense recommendations for all day hikes.
Sun Protection: Rain or shine sun protection is important. At high elevations and even on overcast days, too much sun can be damaging to eyes and skin. Always bring UV protected polarized sunglasses, mineral sunscreen and SPF clothing/hat.
Navigation Tools: Trails and signs are not always clear for hikes. It’s best to plan ahead with a map, compass, GPS Device, and satellite messenger.
First Aid Kit: There are various kits available depending on the trip. I carry REI’s Day Hike First Aid Kit for day hikes and bigger one for camping and extended hiking. Don’t forget to include insect repellant and foot care.
Not all those who wander are lost…
especially when bringing their hiking essentials.
Rechargeable Headlamp: Even if you plan to return before dark, be prepared
for any unexpected situation that keeps you on the trails after dark.
Fire Resource: Matches (waterproof), lighter and/or stove
Emergency Shelter Bivvy: For example, a bivouac sack “bivvy” is a weatherproof cover for your sleeping bag with a breathing hole.
Swiss Army Knife plus a Gear Repair Kit
Extra Food: In addition to planned meals/snacks for the hike, bring extra lightweight nutritionally dense food, such as, protein bars or nuts.
Water Surplus: This is a balance of bringing extra water, without adding too much weight. One solution is to bring an ultraviolet light or purification tablets to purify water without adding too much weight.
Additional Clothing: Even in the summer, I keep a light Puff-Insulated Coat, hat, gloves, raingear and pants in my pack. Remember, always dress in layers for precarious weather.
My Hiking Photography & Video Gear
I love the reliable quality of Canon products and the compact, light weight of mirrorless cameras for hiking. In addition, I always take my GoPro with me for hiking and travelling. The amazing lightweight tool makes it a must for outdoor activities.
Enjoy Safe Hiking!
Overall, rain or shine, summer or winter these basics, plus ten hiking essentials ensure sensible safety. It’s always important to be mindful about the unpredictability of Mother Nature. Ultimately, being prepared frees you up to not worry and enjoy your outdoor adventures. If you have any tips for this hiking essentials, checklist, please leave comments below.
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