Have you just started hiking and don’t know what to wear? Are you a seasoned trail goer, but want to improve your collection? I’ve got the ultimate guide for your day hiking gear list!
I’ve gone on over 200 hikes throughout the US and have been hitting the trails for years now. It’s taken me some time, but I feel like I’ve finally perfected my gear collection. 👍🏻 So, now I want to help you get the right stuff to get outdoors as well!
Below is my complete guide so that you can create the perfect day hike gear kit. It includes everything from what to wear, what gear you need, and how to choose the best items. I hope this helps you get out and hit the trails!
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Table of Contents
Gear Buying Guide
How to Choose Quality Gear
One of the hardest things about starting to hike is knowing what gear to buy and how to choose the right pieces.
My number one rule for buying gear is try it first!
Luckily, most REI stores will let you go in and try things on. Workers at the store can also help you fit backpacks and select items that fit you best. It’s really helpful to go in and learn their expertise. You don’t even need to buy things from them, but it’s good to get the knowledge.
Then, I would select items that have good reviews and are known for lasting long. Although ordering from Amazon can be convenient, a lot of the gear on there is not made to last. So find items you know will be in it for the long haul!
If you choose quality gear, then you only will have to buy it once. Then, it will last you years! I’ve had most of my hiking gear (besides shoes) since 2020 and 2021.
Where to Get Hiking Gear
Hiking does not need to be expensive. There are tons of great options for picking out clothing or items that will not break the bank. 💸 That being said, my favorite places to shop for hiking gear is REI. It just has a ton of great options and I love to go to try things on there.
However, you can get gear from re-sale options like Facebook Marketplace or REI Garage Sale ot save money. I would also try looking at resale apps like Poshmark as well. Don’t let not having the “perfect gear” keep you from getting out there!
Do I Need Everything to Hike?
Let me preface this list by stating, that you do not NEED to buy new gear to get out on the trails! I started out hiking by getting boots and wearing whatever I already owned 🤷♀️. Then, I accumulated clothing and gear over time.
So, no. You do not need to purchase everything. Start with hiking boots or a backpack. Then as you hike more, you can accumulate the things that you need. People hike in all sorts of clothing and use a variety of gear.
I encourage everyone to get out there, no matter what! 🙌🏻
Day Hiking Gear List
Honestly, as long as you have a good pair of shoes and sturdy socks you can feel confident to get out and hike. But, to create the ultimate hiking wardrobe you will want to get gear that is durable, waterproof, and breathable.
As a general rule, you should avoid cotton clothing. It absorbs water and keeps you wet on the trails.
So, if you get wet or sweat, your clothing will stay wet. 🥶 Instead, choose clothing that is polyester, nylon, or merino wool as a general guideline. I will walk you through specific items below!
Clothing
Base Layers
Base layers are the items you wear closest to your skin. There are three things to consider when choosing base layers for your day hiking gear list:
- Material
- Weight
- Fit
First, when choosing a material, you want it to be moisture wicking. Most items that are marketed as “base layers” you can assume are made of a good material. I would choose things like merino wool or polyester.
Then, you want to choose your base layers based on temperatures that you will be hiking. The range includes lightweight, mid-weight, and heavy-weight base layers for various climates. If you are just buying one as a starter, then I recommend a mid-weight to cover cooler temperatures. 🌡
Finally, make sure that the base layers fit snugly, so that they are effective!
My Favorite Base Layers:
Mid-Layer
Now you’re on to the second part of your top layers- the mid-layer. This layer is for extra insulation and warmth. You may not need this layer on every single hike you do, but it’s helpful to bring along.
Most people choose between fleeces, synthetic down jackets, or down insulated jackets. Personally, I find fleeces aren’t very breathable and I often find myself too warm to wear them. 🥵 That being said, I do have a few that I like and wear! But, I usually opt for a jacket instead.
I always bring my nanopuff jacket wherever I go, because it always comes in handy. Plus, the nanopuff folds up really small, so it takes up very little room in any pack that I take!
Best Mid-Layers:
Outer Layer
Outer layers are key for keeping you warm and dry on your hiking expeditions. They should shield you from wind or rain. 🌧 It’s key to have options that are waterproof and windproof.
These items can range in price by a lot. So while you do not need to choose a mountaineering quality jacket, it’s smart to invest in items that will last a long time. So, if you have to spend a few more dollars to get something that’s good quality, I would do it!
Outer Layers:
Bottoms
People have a variety of preferences when it comes to hiking pants. I know people who only wear hiking pants, others who prefer leggings, and some that even hike in jeans! 👖
Personally, I go between a mix of leggings, hiking pants, and comfortable hiking shorts. My favorite are the Outdoor Voices zip-off pants, because I can change the length! All that being said, you want items that are again moisture wicking and are quick to dry. Below are some of my favorite options!
Hiking Bottoms:
- Outdoor Voices Rectrek Zip-Off Pants
- Beyond Yoga Leggings
- Patagonia Baggies
- REI Co-op Sahara Convertible
Socks
I never knew the importance of good socks until I started hiking. Socks can truly make or break your hike. Good socks prevent blisters 😩 and add extra padding on long treks.
Socks come in a variety of thicknesses and materials. I recommend thicker socks for longer or colder hikes, while you can use mid-weight ones if it’s a shorter excursion. Again, you’ll want moisture wicking socks, so I suggest merino wool ones.
Best Hiking Socks:
Boots
Hiking shoes are arguably the most important item on this list! 🥾 Everyone’s foot is different, so it’s hard to say which shoes will be right for you. I highly recommend going to an REI in person to try a few pairs out before you commit.
Hiking boots come in a variety of weights with different components. Some people may even prefer trail runners to boots. But, what’s important is that the shoes are well made and will hold up over time! I’ll let you know my favorites below.
If you are doing a lot of winter hiking, consider getting a pair of microspikes too!
Favorite Hiking Boots:
Day Hiking Gear List- Equipment
Now, that you’ve got your hiking wardrobe covered, it’s time to talk about gear. The most important item on the list is your backpack 🎒, but there are other essentials to talk about as well.
You do not need to invest in this all at once. But, it is smart to make your own first aid kit if you do not purchase one. It’s key to always be prepared for an emergency!
Day Packs
When I first started hiking, I used an old North Face backpack that I had from school. It worked for me, but over the years I’ve gone through a number of packs that were better suited for the job. Choosing a day pack can be a tough decision, but you’ll find one that’s right for you!
Day packs come in a variety of sizes that usually range from 15 liters to 30 liters of capacity. Then, they also have a multitude of features and side pockets. It’s important to choose ones you think would be most suitable for you. I recommend going into the store to try on a pack and see how it fits before committing.
One thing I always look for in a day pack is a separate compartment for a water reservoir! We love the osprey reservoirs. 💦
Great Day Packs:
Hiking Poles
Until I started using trekking poles, I was always confused why people needed them. But, wow they are a game changer and a life saver for your knees! 🙏🏻 If you are going on steep hikes, then you should start using poles.
Now, that I’ve started using them, I will never go back! There aren’t a ton of hiking pole options out there, but I prefer ones that can fold away and are made of carbon, because they’re lighter. But, you can start with cheaper ones and upgrade later!
Hiking Pole Options
- Black Diamond Z Distance Trekking Poles
- Black Diamond Trail Trekking Poles
- REI Co-op Traverse Trekking Poles
Emergency Items
Even if you’re just going on a quick day hike, it’s important to be prepared. You really never know when an emergency can occur. Luckily, you can make your own first aid kit with things around the house like gauze, bandaids 🩹, advil, and neosporin.
After a few years of hiking, I accumulated more items that help in emergencies. Additional, things that you may want include a satellite phone to contact people when you’re out of service or a water filter to drink from any water source. Finally, some hikes require bear spray, so you will need that!
Bonus tip: Make sure you know how to use bear spray before going on a trail in bear country! 🐻
Emergency Took Kit:
Hygiene
Even if you’re just out for a few hours, you will want to take care of your body. This means applying plenty of sunscreen ☀️, using bug spray and of course drinking plenty of water. Below are all the items I like to pack for my hygiene!
Hygiene Kit:
Electronic Accessories
You do not NEED any electronics when going on a hike. But, if you’re like me and you love to shoot photos 📸 while you’re outside, then there are some things you may want. I like bringing extra batteries and a portable charger with me. Plus, if I’m doing a sunrise or sunset hike, I bring a headlamp with me.
Also, if you have a large camera, the Peak Design Camera Clip is a total game changer! You will never hike without it again.
Electronic Accessories:
Final Tips for Creating the Ultimate Hiking Gear Collection
Now, that you’ve read this entire post, you should be ready to get the right gear. But, here are a couple more tips. If you want to compare items, I recommend reading online reviews from real people. Plus, if you need to, REI accepts most returns, so you can return things that end up not working for you.
Make sure that your gear lasts by taking good care of it and using Nikwax to waterproof and clean it! I hope you find the best gear and get out there to explore!
Let me know in the comments if you enjoyed this gear guide.
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Alexys says
Such a great comprehensive list! Definitely going to be super valuable to beginner hikers 🥾