Hiking Gear Every Beginner Needs (But Doesn’t Know About)

Hiking in the summer is one of my favorite ways to connect with nature, and it’s a great way to stay active and clear your mind. But before you hit the trails, there are a few essential items you should always bring with you to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Trust me, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, here’s all the essential hiking gear you need.

Water Filters Are a Must

When it comes to staying hydrated on a hike, it’s easy to underestimate how much water you’ll need. The truth is, if you’re hiking in an area with streams, lakes, or rivers, you can often refill your water bottle as you go. However, just because the water looks pristine doesn’t mean it’s safe to drink. There can be bacteria, waterborne cysts like Giardia, and other harmful contaminants lurking in that seemingly clear water.

That’s why a good water filter is non-negotiable. I’ve been using a filter that has a built-in soft bottle, making it easy to slip into my pack and whip out whenever I pass a stream. It’s saved me more than once when I was close to dehydration. Imagine hiking all day, running out of water, and finding a tiny trickle of water to keep you going – that’s the magic of having a water filter.

Digging a Cat Hole

One thing that often gets overlooked is what to do when nature calls. If you’re new to hiking, you might not know the proper etiquette for handling human waste in the wilderness. The general rule worldwide is to dig a cat hole – a small hole about 20 centimeters deep – to bury your waste. This prevents unpleasant smells and keeps the area looking pristine.

I’ve seen some pretty gnarly sights on popular trails where people didn’t follow this rule, and trust me, it’s not pleasant. Bringing a small trowel to dig a cat hole is a simple way to respect nature and your fellow hikers. Just be sure to check the local rules, as some areas, especially those with delicate water catchments, might have different requirements.

Offline Maps

Most people bring their mobile phones on hikes, but what many don’t realize is that there’s often no signal in the mountains. Google Maps won’t help you once you’re out of range, and getting lost in the wilderness is a scary prospect.

That’s why downloading offline maps is crucial. There are plenty of apps out there that let you download maps of the area you’ll be hiking in. I can’t count how many times I’ve had people ask me for directions because they were lost. Having offline maps means you can always find your way back, identify peaks, and locate streams.

External Battery Packs

So, you’ve got your offline maps, but what if your phone battery dies? An external battery pack is a lifesaver. I usually carry one with a capacity of around 20,000 milliamp-hours, which can keep my phone and camera charged for several days. For a day hike, something smaller, around 2,000 milliamp-hours, should suffice.

Make sure you bring your charging cable too. There’s nothing worse than having a dead phone and no way to charge it. And for those concerned about phone damage or getting wet, of course, it’s smart to bring a map and compass as backup, but a battery pack is a more practical solution for most day hikers.

Quality Socks

Good socks are essential for a comfortable hike. Personally, I prefer wool or a synthetic blend with a bit of silver for its antibacterial properties. Wool is far superior to cotton because it wicks moisture away from your skin, preventing blisters, maceration, and fungal infections.

Look for socks that are seamless to prevent rubbing, anatomically shaped to fit your feet properly, and padded around the heel and toe box for extra comfort and blister prevention. Your feet are your main mode of transport on a hike, so taking care of them is crucial. On that note, make sure you pair your socks with some durable and supportive hiking shoes.

Sun Protection

Hiking in the summer means you’re going to get a lot of sun exposure, and while a bit of sunshine is great for your mood and vitamin D levels, too much can be harmful. Protecting your skin is not just about comfort; it’s about safety. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat is crucial because it provides shade for your face and neck, areas that are particularly susceptible to sunburn.

A high-SPF sunscreen should be applied generously to all exposed skin. Remember, sweating can reduce the effectiveness of sunscreen, so it’s important to reapply it regularly. Sunglasses with UV protection are also a must to protect your eyes from harmful rays.

Lightweight Layers

Even in the heat of summer, mountain weather can be incredibly unpredictable. You might start your hike under clear skies and end it in a surprise thunderstorm. That’s why it’s essential to pack lightweight, moisture-wicking layers that can be easily added or removed as needed. A compact rain jacket is an absolute must; not only will it keep you dry, but it can also serve as a windbreaker when the temperature drops unexpectedly. Layers made from synthetic materials or merino wool are excellent choices because they dry quickly and help regulate your body temperature, keeping you comfortable in a range of conditions.

First Aid Kit

A first aid kit might seem like overkill for a day hike, but it can make a world of difference when you encounter minor injuries on the trail. A well-stocked kit should include adhesive bandages for blisters and cuts, antiseptic wipes to clean wounds, and blister treatment products to prevent and treat those inevitable hot spots on your feet.

Pain relievers can help manage headaches or minor aches and pains. Also, consider including a small pair of tweezers for splinters and a compact emergency blanket for unexpected cold weather or injuries. Having these items on hand ensures that you can handle most minor medical issues without having to cut your hike short.

Snacks

Keeping your energy levels up during a hike is crucial for both your performance and enjoyment. High-energy snacks are your best friend on the trail. Nuts, dried fruit, energy bars, and jerky are all excellent options because they provide a mix of protein, fats, and carbohydrates, which help sustain your energy over long periods. These snacks are lightweight and easy to pack, making them perfect for a day hike. Eating small amounts regularly can help maintain your energy levels and prevent fatigue, allowing you to fully enjoy your hike without feeling drained.

Trekking Poles

Trekking poles can be incredibly beneficial, especially when navigating uneven terrain. They provide extra stability and support, which can reduce the strain on your knees and legs, making steep ascents and descents much easier. Trekking poles are particularly helpful for maintaining balance on rocky or slippery paths and can significantly reduce the risk of falls. They can also help you establish a consistent rhythm, which can improve your endurance and speed on longer hikes. If you’ve never used trekking poles before, give them a try—they might just become your new favorite hiking companion.

Headlamp

A headlamp might seem like an item you’d only need for night hikes, but it’s a small piece of gear that can come in handy in many situations. Even if you plan to finish your hike well before dark, unexpected delays can happen.

A headlamp ensures that you can find your way safely if you’re still on the trail as the sun sets. It’s also useful for exploring dark caves or shaded areas where visibility is low. Modern headlamps are lightweight, compact, and have long battery life, making them an easy addition to your hiking gear.

Personal Locator Beacon for Emergencies

If you’re planning to hike in remote areas, a personal locator beacon (PLB) is an essential piece of safety equipment. In case of an emergency, a PLB allows you to send a distress signal with your location to emergency responders, even if you’re out of cell phone range. This can be a lifesaver in situations where you’re injured or lost and unable to call for help. While it’s a piece of gear you hope you’ll never have to use, having a PLB provides peace of mind, knowing that you have a reliable way to get help in case of an emergency.