Getting ready for an upcoming hiking trip? We’ve put together this hiking checklist to help you stay organized. Our list covers just about everything you’ll need, including basic gear, hiking clothing, emergency gear and a few other items that may come in handy on the trail.
Basic Hiking Gear
- Backpack
- Map and compass
- Whistle
- Cell phone
- Pocket knife or multi-tool
- Waterproof matches
- Reliable lighter (check fuel level before leaving)
- Compact flashlight or headlamp
- Water bottles or hydration reservoir (filled)
- Energy bars, trail mix or other lightweight nutrition
- Emergency blanket or bivvy sack
- Sunscreen
- Bug repellent
- Paper and pencil
- Toilet paper and small trowel
Hiking Clothing
- Base Layer
- Hiking shirt
- Hiking pants or convertible pants
- Hiking socks
- Hiking boots
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Rain Jacket
- Extra pair of socks
Emergency Preparedness
- First-aid kit
- Signaling mirror
- Fire steel and tinder
- Water purification tablets
- Parachute cord or thin rope
- Wire saw or folding saw
- Candle
- Fishing line and lures
- Small plastic tarp
Other Hiking Gear
- GPS Unit and spare batteries
- Hand warmers
- Sewing kit or repair kit
- Camera
- Binoculars
- Bear repellent spray
- Field guide