What to Pack for a Day Hike: Beginner Essentials, by Trailblazeher on YouTube. 15 min 47 s.
- Video length
- 15 min 47 s
- Time to do it
- 20 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 10
What you need
Steps
Lay everything out on the floor before you pack. Group items into footwear, clothing, water and food, sun and rain, and safety so you can see what is missing.
Choose trail running shoes or trainers with good grip for short hikes. Make sure they fit well and are broken in before a longer walk.
Wear moisture-wicking socks, not cotton. Pack a spare pair in a zip bag in case your feet get wet.
Pick a breathable hiking shirt and hiking pants or shorts you can move in. Avoid heavy cotton that stays damp.
Load your daypack with the heaviest items close to your back and in the middle. Keep water, snacks and your rain shell near the top for quick access.
Add sun protection: sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. Reapply sunscreen at lunch if you are out for hours.
Pack a light rain shell even if the forecast looks dry. Roll it small and keep it in an outer pocket.
Fill your water bottle or bladder before you leave. Carry more than you think you need on warm days and check how much you drink.
Pack easy snacks such as nuts, bars or fruit. Keep them in a pocket you can reach without taking off your pack.
Add a small first-aid kit with plasters, blister pads and any personal medication. Tell someone your route and expected return time before you set off.
Tips and common mistakes
Do not buy lots of new gear for your first hikes. Use shoes, layers and a bag you already own.
Weigh your packed daypack at home. If it feels heavy for a short walk, take out items you will not use.
Check the weather forecast the morning of your hike and adjust your layers and rain gear.
Practice your route on a short, well-marked trail before trying longer or remote hikes.
Questions
How much water should I carry on a day hike?
For a short hike in mild weather, about one litre is a common starting point. Carry more on hot days or longer routes, and drink regularly rather than all at once.
Do I need hiking boots for a day hike?
Not always. Trail running shoes or grippy trainers work well on easy, dry trails. Choose boots if the ground is rough, muddy or steep.
What should go in a small first-aid kit?
Plasters, blister pads, a small roll of tape, antiseptic wipes and any personal medication. Keep it light and check it before each trip.
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.
