Going on a hiking trip soon? Whether going on a day hike or a multi-day trek, proper packing is just as crucial as being physically prepared for the trip. Following a well-curated hiking packing list is guaranteed to enhance both your safety and comfort on the trail. That said, I put together this comprehensive guide for beginners and hikers alike. 

---

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I will earn a small commission if you purchase through my link at no extra cost to you. Please see full disclosure for more information.

---

Clothing Essentials to Add to Your Hiking Packing List

Layering when hiking is a crucial part of dressing appropriately as it helps you regulate your body temperature and acclimate to changing weather conditions. Each kind of layer has a purpose.

Base Layers

For the base, it’s important to add moisture-wicking shirts to your hiking packing list. Moisture-wicking materials keep you dry and prevent chills from sweat evaporation – dri-FIT t-shirts are a great choice. 

Another personal favorite of mine is merino wool shirts as they’re both breathable and have insulating properties. Not to mention that merino wool is a natural anti-bacterial, so it automatically equals less sweat and it can stay fresh for weeks. Both kinds of materials are also super compact and don’t require much packing space. 

In addition to those, if you’re traveling in cold weather, make sure you also pack thermal wear; tops, and bottoms. 

Insulating Layers

The middle layer, aka the insulating layer, is worn to trap body heat and keep you warm as the temperature falls. Such layers include fleece jackets or sweaters, as well as down jackets. These garments have insulating properties that’ll keep you warm but at the same time, they’re comfortable and easy to move in, unlike bulky garments. 

Outer Wear

The outer layer functions as a protective layer against weather conditions such as wind, rain, or snow. This way, you’d be able to keep your inner layers dry and functional. Good examples include waterproof or windproof jackets and pants, such as windbreakers and rain pants.  

Hiking Pants/Shorts

Moving on to the bottoms, you need to add comfortable and breathable options to your packing list. Hiking pants are totally worth it as these features are always well-considered. You can also hit two birds with one stone by investing in zip-off pants that you can unzip and turn into shorts. I personally prefer covering my legs when hiking for sun protection and to shield my skin against scratches, so the zip-off pants are a good choice in case it gets too hot. On the other hand, when hiking in colder weather, I like to wear dri-FIT leggings underneath the pants as an extra layer. 

Socks

You might be thinking that you can just wear normal socks, but you’re wrong – bringing the right pairs is more important than you think. Every hiking packing list should include both wool and moisture-wicking hiking socks. The latter, just like we’ve already established, will keep your feet dry, providing you with comfort and preventing blisters. You can opt for synthetic blends or merino wool socks that are also anti-odor. As for wool, they’re great for colder weather, especially if you’re camping overnight, and they’re also naturally odor-resistant. 

In addition, make sure the socks you pack are of a higher cuff than your hiking boots to avoid chafing and protect your ankles from rubbing against your footwear’s collar.

Footwear

Speaking of hiking footwear, I can’t stress enough how important it is to pick the right hiking shoes and break them in before your trip. 

Here are a few tips for picking the right hiking boots:

• Try them using the socks you’ll be wearing on the hike.
• Always opt for ankle support when choosing the design.
• Put your index finger behind your ankle to make sure the shoes aren’t too tight.
• Make sure your heal isn’t moving up and down and that it’s well-supported.
• Try out the new shoes at the end of the day when your feet are already worn out to see whether it’s comfy enough or not.
• Pick a suitable material depending on the nature of the terrain. If you’ll be hiking in various environments, go for something versatile.
• Break in your shoes by wearing them multiple times before any big hike to avoid blisters.

Accessories

Aside from the basic garments, your hiking packing list should include a few essential accessories. Here are some of the things you might need:

• Sun hat for sun protection.
• Sunglasses for sun protection.
• Beanie for cold weather.
• Gloves for cold weather.
• Neck gaiter/buff to protect your neck and face from wind, dust, and harsh sunlight.

P.S: Don’t forget to pack enough undergarments! 

Choosing Your Backpack

Daypacks vs. Backpacks

If you’re going on a multi-day trek, you will need a backpacking pack that fits all your overnight camping gear (mentioned below). In case your hike is a supported hike, and a support team/working animals will be handling your baggage, you will still need a small daypack to carry anything you might need during the day. 

Features to Look for in a Bag

• Comfort: Make sure you opt for backpacks with padded shoulders and straps that tie around your chest and waist. Those help relieve the weight from your back. Some backpacks also feature back ventilation, which is great.
• Capacity: For your daypack, anything between 25-35L is fine. As for the backpacking pack, go for something between 40-70L, depending on the duration of your trek and whether or not it’s supported.
• Hydration compatibility: Your backpack must have 2 side pockets to hold your water bottles and an extra sleeve or divider in the back in case you’re carrying a hydration pack. 

Here are my favorite budget-friendly backpacks:

• Favorite daypack: Quechua NH Arpenaz 100 in 30 L
• Favorite backpacking pack: Decathlon Forclaz MT100 Easyfit in 50L and 70L.
• For supported hikes, this duffel backpack is a good option for accessibility: Forclaz 500 Extend in 40-60L (I love traveling with it on various kinds of trips).

Packing Tips

Weight distribution and organization are key. If it’s a supported hike, your camping gear, essentials, and your change of overnight clothes go in the backpacking pack or duffel bag. As for your daypack, make sure you only carry essentials you will need during the hike such as:

• Snacks
• Windbreaker
• Water bottles or hydration bladder
• Sunscreen
• Headlamp

P.S.: Don’t forget a rain cover for your backpack!

Navigation Tools to Add to Your Hiking Packing List

Whether you’re hiking with a guide or solo, it’s safer to have the following navigation tools at your disposal either way, just in case you get lost or so. 

• GPS apps like AllTrails or Maps.me.
• Power bank to recharge your electronic devices.
• Physical maps and a compass for backup.

Nutrition Essentials to Add to Your Hiking Packing List

Hydration Essentials

• Water bottles: Make sure you pack water bottles that can take up to 2 liters. It’s also a good idea to invest in a bottle with a built-in filter or pack purification tablets.
• Hydration bladder: For easier access to the water, you can get a hydration bladder/pack instead so you can drink through the extended hose while you hike hands-free. 
• Hydration sachets: Electrolyte sachets will come in handy on tough trails when you need to stay hydrated and replenish lost minerals.

Nutrition Essentials

• Snacks: Pack high-energy options like protein bars, nuts, and dried fruits.
• Meals: On longer hikes, bring along lightweight and easy-to-prepare foods to stay nourished.

Safety Essentials to Add to Your Hiking Packing List

Stay prepared for unexpected challenges by packing safety and emergency gear. From first-aid kits to multi-tools, the following essentials will level up your hiking packing list.

• First-aid kit (include bandages, antiseptic, blister treatment, etc…)
• Meds pouch (see what kind of meds I always travel with here)
• Knee and ankle brace
• Multi-tool or Swiss knife
• Fire-starting tools (i.e. matches, lighters, or any kind of fire starters)
• Emergency blanket
• Whistle 
• Signal mirror
• Personal locator beacon (for remote hikes)

Comfort Essentials to Add to Your Hiking Packing List

Hiking is an enjoyable activity, as it should be – so, you must maintain your comfort. The following essentials will help you stay cozy and well-prepared. 

• Trekking poles
• Compact microfiber towel
• Lip balm with SPF
• Sunscreen
• Bug spray or mosquito repellent

Camping Gear (For Overnight Hikes)

Spending the night in the outdoors? Adding the right gear to your multi-day hiking packing list will help you stay safe and comfortable.

• Tent 
• Sleeping bag (Keep comfort level in mind depending on the weather.)
• Sleeping pad (This is not just for comfort; it should also provide insulation so you don’t get hypothermia.)
• Inflatable pillow or travel pillow
• Travel fleece blanket
• Lightweight stove and cookware (if not provided by your tour operator)
• Headlamp with extra batteries
• Heat pad
• Handwarmers 
• Overnight clothes

If you’re camping for the first time, make sure you read my camping guide for beginners here. 

If you found my travel guides and tips valuable, you can show support by buying me a virtual cup of coffee HERE. Your support helps me keep bringing you the resources and insights you need for unforgettable, safe solo trips.
Thank you, Nadine ☕️🌍

Personal Items to Remember!

Stay prepared for every small detail and don’t forget some important items that can make your hike stress-free and as comfortable as possible.

• Identification and permits (if needed)
• Cash for entry or services.
• Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, soap, menstrual products, tissues, wipes, etc.)
• Biodegradable trash bags for waste disposal.

To wrap it up…

With the right hiking gear, garments, and essentials, you’ll be able to enjoy your adventure and conquer any trail with ease. So, save this for later and make sure you always double-check your hiking packing list and make sure it matches the trail’s unique requirements. Always pack smart, stay safe, and enjoy your adventure to the fullest.

---

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance!

Travel (solo or not) isn’t always rainbows and butterflies – things might go down south sometimes. You might fall ill or lose your luggage, and that’s when you’ll thank me for having your back covered with travel insurance.

SafetyWing offers different travel insurance packages, tailored to your needs, but their Nomad Insurance is my favorite option.

This travel medical insurance is perfect for frequent travelers. It covers lost checked luggage, travel delay, doctors, hospitals, and more. It even covers the COVID-19 emergency quarantine period if deemed necessary by a physician.

GET INSURED NOW – Nomad Insurance

---

Sharing is caring!

You might also like:

• 9 Proven Tips for Hiking Beginners – First Time on Trail
• The Ultimate Outdoor Safety Guide for Hikers

Meanwhile, if you like my content and would like to see more of it, subscribe to my newsletter here.