| Footwear |
Hiking shoes/boots |
Choose based on terrain; Merrell, Salomon, Altra, La Sportiva |
|
Hiking socks |
Wool or synthetic (no cotton); Darn Tough, Smartwool |
| Backpack |
Daypack (15–30L) |
Osprey Daylite, REI Flash, Deuter |
| Navigation |
Map + compass (or GPS) |
Don't rely solely on phone signal |
|
Phone w/ GPS app |
Gaia GPS, AllTrails, onX Backcountry |
| Hydration |
Water bottle or reservoir |
2L minimum; Nalgene, Hydro Flask, CamelBak |
|
Water filter/tablets |
For refilling on-trail; Sawyer Squeeze, LifeStraw |
| Clothing |
Moisture-wicking base layers |
Synthetic or wool (no cotton) |
|
Weather-appropriate layers |
Fleece, windbreaker, or rain jacket |
|
Hat + sunglasses |
For sun protection |
| Safety |
First-aid kit |
Compact and hike-ready |
|
Knife or multitool |
Small and versatile; Leatherman, Gerber |
|
Whistle |
For emergencies |
|
Headlamp |
In case you're out after dark; Petzl, Black Diamond |
| Snacks |
Trail mix, energy bars, jerky |
High-calorie and non-perishable |
| Sun Protection |
Sunscreen + lip balm |
SPF 30+ minimum |
| Trekking Poles |
(optional) |
Useful on steep or rocky terrain; collapsible poles like Black Diamond, Leki |