Sometimes the hardest thing with hiking can be deciding exactly what you need to take with you. Do I need this jacket or this one? Should I take an extra thermal? It’s warm now so should I wear shorts and just risk that it stays warm and dry? Our kit can also change depending on the route your taking, the weather you’re expecting and how long you’re expecting to be out for.
I like to always make sure I have everything I need to survive a night on the mountains – think of it as a worst-case scenario. Therefore, as a minimum, this is what I pack for a day hike…
Clothing to pack for a day hike
- Spare clothes and extra layers – make sure you have enough in case of weather changes.
- Spare socks – there’s nothing worse than stepping in a bog or getting a wet foot and having to walk around with it for the rest of the day.
- Waterproof jacket and trousers (yes even in summer – just think of having to spend a night in the mountains in the rain!)
- Hat and gloves – depending on the season it might be a cap to keep the sun off you but remember, even in summer the temperatures can drop drastically in the mountains.
Extras to pack for a day hike
- Headtorch – yes maybe you will finish in the afternoon but what if there’s an accident and you’re stuck on the mountain in the dark waiting for help? It can be a scary place sitting in the dark on a mountain. Plus, your headtorch can help guide rescuers to you more easily. A spare, charged, battery is useful too.
- Battery pack – keep your phone charged up during the day incase of an emergency. The cold weather can zap the battery from your phone leaving you with no way of contacting anyone.
- Basic first aid kit – plasters, scissors, antiseptic cream, antihistamines, painkillers, bandage, tape, sterile dressings, tweezers, safety pins
- Foil blanket/emergency shelter – incase of an accident and being unable to move for a while.
- A whistle for attracting attention
- Any medication you need
- Map/compass (learn how to use one) or another navigation method
- Enough food and water for the day + extras, just incase.
- Sun cream – if needed!
What items are always in your bag for a day hike? Let me know in the comments below.