You know what they say: “Packing is the worst part of hiking.” Okay, maybe we just made that up. But packing does sorta blow. Whether you’re hitting Runyon Canyon or trudging up a mountain in Nepal so you can take a selfie at the peak of a mountain, make sure you’re carting all the essentials when you go.
Here’s our complete Country Archer-approved hiking gear checklist (along with a few product recs) to make packing more fun … or simply suck less.
1. The Right Backpack
Daylong hike in a national park or month-long trek along the Pacific Northwest Trail? No matter the trails you blaze, make sure to choose a backpack with the capacity to stash all your stuff. R.E.I. has a lineup of top-quality hiking backpack brands.
2. Overnight Essentials
If you’re taking on a longer excursion, make sure to stow your overnight must-haves.
3. Appropriate Clothing
Need ideas on what to wear when hiking? Check the weather before you leave, and always pack extra clothes if you’ll be gone longer than a day.
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Quick-dry pants or shorts: The North Face’s Paramount Peak Convertible Pants
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Rain jacket: Patagonia Women’s Houdini Jacket
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Hats
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Any cold-weather gear if necessary (gloves, scarves, beanies)
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Socks: Darn Tough Micro Crew Cushion Hiking Socks
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Light layers
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Weatherproof jacket if appropriate
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Moisture-wicking underwear
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Moisture-wicking tees or other shirts: Duluth Trading CoolMax Performance LongTail T
4. Hiking Boots or Shoes
Sore feet suck even more than packing, so be sure to match your footwear to your hiking terrain. Somewhere between a shoe and a boot, the always-comfy Salomon Hiking Boots get high praise for their lightweight protection and rugged durability.
5. Snacks
Whether you’re meandering down a trail with kids in tow for a few hours or making your way to the top of Kilimanjaro, plan for plenty of energy-producing snacks.
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Trail mix
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Granola or energy bars: PROBAR Meal bars
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Nuts
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Beef Jerky and Turkey Jerky: Country Archer
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Dried fruits
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Crackers
6. Meals
Headed out for the long haul? Choose easy-to-carry and prepare meals.
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Cans or pouches of tuna, meats, or other fish
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Dehydrated foods
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Any seasonings you might need
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Dried noodles or ramen
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Nut butters
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Freeze-dried or pre-packaged dinners: Mountain House Meals
7. Meal Prep Items
You’ll want to be mindful of your backpack weight, so only take what’s necessary.
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Can opener
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Bowls, plates, cups
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Utensils for cooking and eating
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Biodegradable soap
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Disposable wipes, paper towels, or a reusable cloths
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Cooking pot or pan
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Any food storage like foil or bags
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Stove, if necessary
8. Liquids
Properly hydrate well before your hike, and then make it a point to consume 2 cups of liquid every hour.
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Water
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Powdered drink mixes
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Sports drinks
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Coffee
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Portable water filters or purification tablets: Katadyn MicroPur Purification Tablets
9. Navigation Tools
While we love a good GPS smartphone app, don’t rely solely on your phone. Even trails just outside a major city can have spotty cell service.
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Map
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Compass
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Whistle
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Flare or other signaling device
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GPS apps: Gaia Trail Map
10. First-Aid Kit
Find a lightweight kit at the store with all the essentials. Just make sure it has the following:
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Antibacterial ointment
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Various bandaids
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Gauze
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Medical tape
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Pain relief medication
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Insect sting treatment
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Tweezers
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Antihistamine
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Moleskin for blisters
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Tampons or menstrual pads if needed
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Butterfly bandages
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Antiseptic wipes
11. Sun & Bug Protection
Mosquitoes and sunburn — nah, we’re good.
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Hats with UV protection
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Aloe
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Bug bite cream
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Sunscreen
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Sunglasses or goggles
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Lip balm or chapstick with SPF
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UV-resistant clothing
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Bug spray: DEET not only repels mosquitoes, it keeps ticks at bay.
12. Tools and Miscellaneous
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Multi-tool or Leatherman
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Small ax, if necessary
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Matches, lighters, or firestarters
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Duct tape
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Utility cords and carabiners
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Tarp to cover tent or create emergency shelter
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Emergency blanket
Keep in mind that once you complete your excursion, the real work begins: unpacking (you’re welcome!). Now lace up those boots! Climb that mountain! Follow the rainbow to the pot of gold! Just don’t forget to snap your post-hike selfie.
