Always be prepared for the worst-case scenario! Bring these hiking essentials on every hike to ensure your safety on the trail.

 

1. Navigation

Navigation is essential for a successful trip. Many people (including us) use their phone as their main navigational tool, so make sure you keep your phone battery charged and download any trail maps in case you lose service. In case of an emergency, the last thing you need is a dead cell phone battery!

When venturing onto an unfamiliar or less traveled trail, a map and compass can help immensely. However, these tools are useless if you don’t know how to use them! Consider learning how to read topographic maps if you travel into the backcountry.

 

2. Headlamp

I can’t stress enough how important it is to bring a headlamp or a flashlight on every hike. There’s been quite a few adventures where we underestimated a trail and trekked back to the car as fast as we could before the sunlight faded. Don’t get caught in the dark!

Make sure you keep your headlamp charged and bring extra batteries. You can always use your phone light in an emergency, but it’s ideal to have another light source if using your phone as navigation.

 

3. Sun Protection 

I can tell you from experience that hiking with a sunburn is the worst. Protect your skin!

Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat with you. You can also wear pants and long sleeved clothing for extra protection.

 

4. Fire

Fire can be a source of warmth, food, and an emergency signal if needed. Pack reliable supplies such as a lighter or waterproof matches that create flames quickly.

You can also pack kindling or Firestarter logs to help maintain the fire. Remember to check the area’s fire restrictions before you go.

 

5. First Aid

Learning how to use a first aid kit is a vital skill. Prepare for emergencies or injuries on the trail by packing a first aid kit. If you don’t know how to use one, buy a premade pack and modify it to your needs over time. Consider packing an emergency guide in case of a medical emergency.

A basic first aid kit includes pain reliever, blister treatments, bandages, gauze pads, tape, disinfectant ointment, and a pen.

 

6. Knife + Gear Repair

Pack a basic repair kit in case you need to repair your equipment. A knife or multitool, duct tape, needle and thread, and safety pins can go a long way if your gear rips or breaks.

 

7. Emergency Shelter

Shelter is essential in an emergency survival situation. A tarp, emergency space blanket, or bivy sack are all lightweight options that can help protect you from the elements.

 

 

 

8. Extra Food

We always like to bring extra snacks to enjoy on the trail. Bring at least a day’s worth of food with you in case your trip goes longer than expected.

Aim for calorie dense food and salty snacks to keep your energy levels up. Food like protein bars, jerky, and trail mix are perfect for hikes and don’t take up a lot of space.

 

9. Extra Water

Bring a few water bottles and stay hydrated, friends! Water is probably the most important of the hiking essentials. Pack more water than you think you need, especially when hiking in hot weather.

We also keep some water purifying tablets in our emergency kit. Look for available water sources along the trail that you can treat with water treatment supplies.

 

10. Extra Clothes

Nature is unpredictable, especially in the backcountry. Pack an extra layer of clothes in case the weather turns or your trip takes longer than expected. Prepare for the worst possible weather conditions when deciding what to bring.

We always bring at least a jacket, extra socks, and an emergency rain poncho. Keep the poncho within easy reach to quickly protect you and your gear.

 

Be prepared for emergency situations by bringing these hiking essentials on every hike. Check out our Backcountry Basics to boost your confidence on the trail!