Outdoors / September 15, 2022

Hiking Checklist

A list of all your hiking necessities in one place from clothes, to gear, snacks, and more.

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Clothes

One of the most important things you need to prepare for hiking is what you're wearing. Always check the weather before you leave and plan for the unexpected. Below is a list of necessities you should bring along, even if you leave some in your car when you get there.

Moisture-wicking base shirt
Long-sleeve shirt
Quick-drying shorts or pants
Jacket
Synthetic or wool socks
Sturdy hiking boots, preferably waterproof hiking boots

If there is rain in the forecast, I always like to have a change of clothes in the car, so I don't have to drive home in wet clothes. Never wear denim, cotton, or silk - these fabrics absorb moisture quickly and oftentimes take a long time to dry out - once you're wet, you're wet.

Base layer: This is very important because it's what is in contact with your skin. If you’re hiking in warm weather, have your shirt and shorts made of synthetic material. In colder weather, be sure to include long, thermal underwear. Click here for some base layer options.

Insulating layer: Fleece or wool jackets and pants work best at keeping you warm while not being bulky. Click here to see REI's insulated jackets. They also have a large selection of fleece and soft-shell jackets.

Waterproof layer: There is a huge difference between weatherproof and waterproof. Be sure to have waterproof clothes if you live somewhere the weather changes abruptly. Not only does waterproof keep you dry from water and mud, but it will also keep you warm on windy days. I always suggest if you're going to invest in hiking boots, waterproof hiking boots are the best. Click here for rain jackets and here for rain pants.

Socks: Socks are more important than you would think; hiking-specific socks have extra cushioning and breathability than cotton socks. They will also prevent blisters that will happen quickly in cotton socks. I always suggest getting socks that are higher than your hiking boots; the last thing you want is your no-show socks continuing to fall below your heel while you hike. Click here for some of the best hiking socks.

Footwear: I always suggest wearing hiking boots, whether the hike is easy, just 1/2 mile long, or you're out for days. First off, you don't need to worry about getting a pair of sneakers dirty since hiking boots are made to be dirty. You will have far more support with hiking boots as well as extra grip, making them a safer option. Lastly, I cannot stress enough how amazing waterproof hiking boots are; they prevent your feet from getting wet from rain and mud, and I know from experience that once your feet are wet, the hike is not as enjoyable. Here are some great hiking boots. Click here for the best women's waterproof hiking boots and here for men's hiking boots.

Check out my Guide to Mount Rainier here

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Gear

Safety is a priority when hiking, especially when doing it alone. Make sure you are over-prepared; you would rather have bear spray and not need it than need it and not have it.

Hiking backpack
Map and compass; do not depend on cell service
First-aid kit
Knife or multi-tool
Portable charger
Flashlight
Bear or pepper spray

If you have the map on your phone, download the map to be sure you have access to it. Apps like AllTrails have a download option that will also track your hike as you go and alert you when you need to change directions or are going the wrong way.

Food

When packing food and water, always pack more than you think you will need. Not only will you need water for the hike out, but you will also need to replenish on the way back and after the hike.

Water
Protein bars
Trail-mix
Fruit snacks
Applesauce

With food, be sure to have a mix of protein (beef jerky), carbs (uncrustables), fats (nuts), and sugars (fruit snacks).

See the best hikes of Washington here

Extras

I like to bring these on every one of my hikes, especially the long ones.

Sunscreen
Chapstick
Hand sanitizer
Sunglasses
Hat
Headlamp
Firestarter
Bug spray
Whistle
Watch (not dependent on your phone)
Emergency blanket
Extra socks
Trekking poles and crampons
Camera
Photo ID
Extra cash

Some of these may seem silly, but the more you hike, the more you will need. There are some crazy stories out there, and they can happen to anyone - always be prepared and aware of your surroundings.

The Best Hikes Near Scottsdale here

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