Considerations
- Think about the weather, terrain, altitude, and environment where you will be hiking. Arid, hot southwest hikes require more water and less insect protection than cooler, humid midwest hikes. Modify your gear as needed based on the environment.
- Buy what you need, but not more. If you will only be on groomed trails, don't spend money on gaiters that are unnecessary, but make sure you get them if your trek takes you through rough brush. Buy a light, inexpensive headlamp rather than one with eight different brightness levels and a flashing mode - unless you really need that for some reason.
- Get Advice. Ask other hikers for recommendations. If you see someone on the trail with a piece of gear you're interested in, ask how its been working for them.
Essential Gear
___ Day pack or Fanny pack
___ Compass
___ Map
___ Water
___ Water filter
___ Water-purification tablets
___ Water bottle(s)
___ Headlamp or Flashlight
___ Food
___ Matches
___ Backup Fire Starter
___ First-aid kit
___ Knife
___ Sunscreen
___ Sunglasses
___ Whistle
___ Insect repellent
Footwear
___ Boots/shoes adequate for terrain
___ Gaiters
___ Hiking socks
Clothing
___ Convertible nylon pants/shorts
___ Fleece jacket
___ Polypropylene underwear (shirt & pants)
___ Wide-brimmed hat
___ Long-sleeved shirt
___ Hooded rain jacket and pants
___ Gloves
Accessories
___ Key & I.D.
___ Money
___ 50-foot nylon cord
___ Plastic garbage bags
___ Resealable plastic bags
___ Toilet paper
___ Hiking Poles
___ Lip balm (with sunscreen)
___ Repair/sewing kit
___ Pencil and paper
___ Bandanna
___ Watch
Gadgets & Extras
___ Cellphone
___ Camera ___ GPS
___ Weather radio
___ Field guides
___ Binoculars
___ Hiking Books
___ Pocket Stove
Hike On: Hiking Boots
