What's In My Hiking Day Pack | Gregory Nano 22 Setup, by Ridge & River on YouTube. 10 min 30 s.
- Video length
- 10 min 30 s
- Time to do it
- 20 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 9
What you need
Steps
Lay out everything you plan to carry and remove anything you will not use. A 22 litre pack fills fast, so keep the load to one day of hiking.
Fill the 3 litre water bladder and slide it into the hydration sleeve against your back. Route the drinking tube over your shoulder and test the bite valve.
Put a filled Nalgene bottle in a side pocket as backup water. Keep the heavy bladder and bottle close to your spine for balance.
Pack your core essentials in the main compartment: first aid kit, extra layer, and any rain shell. Push soft items to the bottom and against your back.
Place snacks and small gear in the front pocket so you can grab them without unpacking. Keep wrappers in a bag to pack out.
Clip a headlamp into an easy-to-reach spot, such as the lid or a front pocket loop. Check the batteries before you leave.
Strap trekking poles to the outside of the pack if you are not using them yet. Keep them tight so they do not swing.
Add a small camp chair or other comfort item last, only if there is room. Do not overload the pack past what the harness can carry.
Put the pack on, tighten the shoulder straps and hip belt, and adjust the load so it sits high and close to your back.
Tips and common mistakes
Weigh your packed bag before you leave and cut anything you did not use on the last hike.
Keep the heaviest items against your back and above your hips so the pack feels lighter.
Carry a headlamp even on a short day hike in case you are out later than planned.
Follow Leave No Trace and pack out all snack wrappers and trash.
Questions
How much water should I carry on a day hike?
A 3 litre bladder plus a bottle is a common setup for a full day. Adjust for heat, distance and whether you can refill on the trail.
Do I need trekking poles for a day hike?
They help on steep climbs and descents and spare your knees. If you do not need them, strap them to the outside of the pack.
What size backpack is right for a day hike?
A 20 to 25 litre pack like the Gregory Nano 22 fits water, layers, food and a small first aid kit for one day.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
