8 Essential Items for a Day Hike

Going out on the trail?  Don’t leave the car before you’ve checked off that you have these critical items for your next day hike.

1.  Headlamp.  Bring a compact headlamp in case you’re out after the sun goes down.   Even if you plan on a short hike, you never know what might delay your return trip.  Headlamps allow you to be hands-free (unlike a flashlight) and always point the light where you are looking.   We like the Petzl Tikka Plus for its long battery life, light weight and reasonable cost.  Don’t forget to check the batteries!

2.  Whistle.   Attach a safety whisle to your pack or the zipper of your jacket.  A whistle could come in handy if you get separated from your hiking buddy and need to signal your location, or could help rescuers locate you if you cannot move.  We use the Fox 40 Whistle for its time-tested design. 

3.  Hydration.   You will need water on the trail.  If you don’t know 100% about a reliable water supply on your trip, bring your own.  For carrying the water, we use the time-tested Nalgene Narrow Mouth 32 Ounce Water Bottle.   The narrow opening makes for easier drinking.   One tip on these–don’t hang them by the loop top because they break easily.

4.  Compass & Map.  Anyone travelling in the outdoors should have a map and compass, and know the basics of map navigation.  A basic, affordable compass is the Suunto A-20.  If you’re a novice at this, check out ‘Be and Expert with Map and Compass.’  In case you get turned around and lose your bearing, a compass will get you back on track.

5.  Extra Socks.  Nothing ruins a hike like blisters.  Besides poor-fitting footwear, socks can be blamed for creating the most blister probelms.  Please, please, no cotton socks people!  Wool or synthetics keep moisture away from your feet which prevents friction points from developing into blisters.  If your feet get wet or are sweating profusively, it’s nice to have a spare change of socks. 

6. Emergency Blanket.  If you’re stuck in bad weather or immobilized, your body heat can start to drain quickly.  Carry an emergency blanket with you to reflect your body heat back onto your body, and conserve that precious energy.  Check out the emergency blanket here.

7.  Energy Food.  Whatever your favorite energy snack is, bring some along.  It will give you a boost of energy to get over that last hill, or just lift your spirits for the last mile back to the car.  We like Cliff Shots, but there are so many choices now that you can look through an entire department of options.

8.  Matches.  If you’re in a pinch, you don’t want to try and start a fire from scratch.  Either bring regular matches in a match box, or bring waterproof matches that work in any conditions.   Another nice option that we use is your classic Bic Lighter from the gas station.