The Day Hike Checklist: 10 Things I Never Hike Without

When I first got started hiking I didn’t really know what I was in for. I bought a backpack from Walmart, and still use it. I got some trekking poles and some hiking shoes that felt comfortable — that was about it. Through my trials and tribulations I’ve learned to bring a couple things along on every hike.

1. A Power Bank

First off, a power bank is always super good to have. I’ve run into my phone almost dying several times. Right now I’m using the Nitecore NB10000 power bank and it’s worked great on the dozen hikes I’ve used it on. I also just like it for everyday use at work when I need it.

I’ve also used a Milwaukee battery inverter, but they’re considerably heavier than the NB10000. It works if you’re just going on a short day hike and aren’t concerned with weight or space, but the NB10000 is the way to go.

2. A First Aid Kit — Especially Blister Tape

#2 would be a first aid kit, and specifically blister tape and bandages. Hopefully you never need the major components of a first aid kit — luckily I never have myself. However, I’ve used blister tape many times, and simple band-aids. I’ve had my heels rub raw, or the tops of my feet from going downhill, and blister tape can be your best friend in those situations.

3. Food

#3 is something I still neglect pretty often: food. It sounds so simple and easy to not forget, but somehow I consistently never bring enough snacks. Sure, that makes for a good calorie deficit if you’re looking to burn some weight, but make sure to bring some fuel for your adventures. I try to bring fruit if I can, otherwise trail mix or beef jerky. Rice Crispy treats are a slept-on source of carbs too that most people overlook or don’t think about. See our guide on how much food to bring backpacking if you want to plan it out more.

4. A LifeStraw or Similar Water Purifier

#4 is a LifeStraw or similar water purifier. If you have any access to a water source on any hike, then one will be well worth it — they’re an irreplaceable tool to have when hiking. Right now I’m using the LifeStraw Peak Squeeze Bottle. It’s super lightweight and folds up pretty flat when I’m not using it, so it’s great for saving weight and space — I’d highly recommend it. I’ve had mine for two seasons now with no issues.

5. A Headlamp

#5 is going to have to be a headlamp. You may not use it or need it, but it’s just one of those things that, for the weight and size, you just throw in the pack in case you need it. Right now I’m using a Black Diamond Astro 300. It’s $25, so not the biggest investment, and trust me — if you get lost in the woods and it’s getting dark, the $25 will be well worth it. Plus, for camping it’s a necessity.

6. Waterproof Matches

#6 on this list is going to be waterproof matches. I prefer them over flint and steel — I know most hardcore outdoorsmen or adventurers would probably argue that, but I just prefer the matches. I think they’re easier to work with. Honestly, I’d say just buy both, throw them in your first aid pouch, and take them with you on every hike. You never know when you might need them.

7. Navigation

#7 — this should probably be up higher, but we can debate that another time — is navigation of some kind. I like AllTrails a lot. I used to just use a printed-out paper map, but AllTrails is super, super handy. Again, you’ll want a power bank, because you’re going to go through battery running it, especially since on most hikes you aren’t going to get that great of service — but I’d highly recommend it.

8. A Good Pair of Sunglasses

#8 is a good pair of sunglasses. When I was younger I never wore sunglasses, but nowadays I can’t live without them. I have a couple pairs of Costa Rincons and I will never buy a different pair of glasses ever again. They’re expensive, and to me they’re worth it. I also fish a lot, and the fact that they’re polarized is another selling point for me.

9. Bear Spray

#9 — if you’re in bear country, bring bear spray or a pistol if you’re comfortable carrying one. If you’re in Glacier or an area with a grizzly population but a lot of people, odds are someone around you will have some, and there will be enough activity that bears will stay away. If it were me, I’d just bring it every time, just in case — you never know if you’ll need it or not. See our bear and moose safety guide for more on this.

10. Plenty of Water

#10, as my final point: bring plenty of water. Kind of ties in with the LifeStraw, but you’ll definitely be thanking yourself that you brought it when you’re thirsty. See our guide on how much water to carry if you’re not sure what that looks like for your hike.

Thanks for reading, stay safe and enjoy nature.

— Adam