Gear You Need for a Successful Hiking Trip

Hiking is one of the most relaxed ways to immerse yourself in nature and get a nice workout. However, this activity isn’t without its hazards, so you should always come prepared with the proper equipment. Here’s a list of the top gear you need for a successful hiking trip.

Food and Water

No matter the length of your hike, you’ll want to pack enough food and water to keep you hydrated and energized. While these items aren’t technically gear, they’re essential.

A person needs two liters of water every day—bring close to that amount per person, as you’ll lose water through physical exertion at a higher rate than normal. As for food, opt for light snacks that don’t require preparation and don’t produce waste, such as beef jerky, apples, bananas, energy bars, trail mix, etc.

First Aid and Tools

While your hiking trip will most likely be enjoyable and stress-free, there’s always the possibility of experiencing an accident. Anything from a minor cut to a serious fall can occur while out in the wilderness, so prepare accordingly by packing a first aid kit.

These kits should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, gauze, body tape, tweezers, bandage adhesive, antibacterial creams, and allergy medications. If you don’t have a kit, ensure you store all of these items neatly in their own container.

Additionally, pack tools such as a multi-tool, knife, fire starter, and emergency shelter for more extreme hikes. Navigation equipment is essential for ensuring your safety, so always have a few forms of navigators. A compass can give you a general direction, while maps and a satellite GPS are better for remote areas.

Proper Footwear

The best footwear for you depends on your hike’s location. Relaxed terrains don’t require anything heavy-duty, so basic hiking shoes and even runners are entirely suitable. You need hiking boots for more rugged environments, like rocky trails or steep inclines. These shoes offer you better support and superior traction. Regardless of the footwear, ensure they fit perfectly and have no rips or tears.

Quality Backpack

Every successful hike requires outdoor hiking backpacks to ensure you can comfortably and safely carry all your other gear. Every person on the hike should have a bag suitable for personal and group items. But what makes a quality bag?

For shorter treks, you can have a day pack containing the required food and first aid supplies. The more gear you have, the bigger the pack you’ll need. If you need a bigger bag, find hiking-specific backpacks—they offer exceptional storage space with handy organizers, and they put less stress on your back.

Use this list of the gear you need for a successful hiking trip to ensure a more enjoyable and safe experience. If you’re looking for adequate hiking clothing and accessories, consider our collection of top-brand products here at Escape Outdoors.