Day Hike Packing List
Planning to spend the day on the trail but not sure what to take? This day hike packing list will help you pack like a pro and pick the right hiking clothes too!
Whether it’s a short hiking route for an afternoon or a gruelling 24-hour ascent, day hiking gives you the best of both worlds. You can still experience many of the most beautiful hiking trails in the world but don’t have to worry about the extra planning and heavy rucksacks that come with multi-day hiking options.
Because of this, day hikes are sweet for last-minute trips or as the perfect introduction to hiking for beginners!
1. Day Hiking Essentials
As mentioned above, consider taking these essentials on every trail – they don’t weigh much but they will keep you safe. Our advice, keep them stored together so they can’t be forgotten and you’re more prepared for last-minute adventures!
Hiking Backpack
The best daypack size is around 20 – 35 litres, with enough room for all your essentials but without any unnecessary weight. It should evenly distribute weight across your back and shoulders whilst being comfortable for long days, even with heavy loads.
This one from our store is perfect
Money/Wallet
It is important to carry cash on you for any purchases. Credit card usually doesn't work out in the outdoors.
Phone
The ideal phone for hiking should have good reception for emergency calls, be sturdy and also strong battery life if you’re using GPS. Oh, and a fancy camera is always good for hiking photos!
Outdoors Headtorch
Even if you’re not planning on moving at night it’s best to take a hiking headtorch just in case
This will do.
Medical and safety gear
Just incase of injuries, you need to carry a first aid box. if it is a group hike you can carry one.
Hiking snacks and water
For snacks to carry on a hike refer to our guide on what to eat on a hike here. https://sunny-outdoors-ug.myshopify.com/blogs/hiking-and-trekking/what-to-eat-while-hiking
For water there are options of a water bottle or a water bladder. A bladder is always preferable.
2. Day Hike Packing List: What to Wear Hiking
Unless you’re going out in extreme heat, you can be slightly more relaxed with your hiking gear, just as long as you know the weather won’t turn.
As a general rule, try to avoid cotton and make sure your hiking clothes are lightweight, loose-fitting and moisture-wicking. This will help your body regulate its temperature by quickly drying and removing moisture from your skin. This helps to stop chafing too, the hiker’s arch-nemesis!
Lightweight hiking shoes
A good pair of hiking shoes will keep you steady on unsavoury terrain and should be your first consideration when thinking of what to wear hiking. These hiking boots and trail runners are a choice.
Hiking socks
These socks are hardwearing and breathable which helps stop chafing, athletes foot and heat rash.
Lightweight hiking shorts/trousers
For women, hard-wearing but breathable leggings or lycra shorts are also good.
Moisture-wicking longsleeved baselayer
We recommend: thin, synthetic baselayer
Waterproof
The right hiking waterproof will be lightweight, well ventilated and can be used to protect you from wind, rain and other elements. Even on a warm day, you can end up uncomfortably cold if you get caught in a shower and your clothes get wet.
Sun hat & sunglasses
The hat can help prevent heatstroke and the glasses are helpful on dusty trails
Buff/bandana
Shield your head from the sun, hold back your hair or cover your mouth and nose in dusty conditions. A buff can also provide a surprising amount of warmth when used as a scarf around your neck. Being so light and cheap it’s worth keeping one in a compartment of your bag in case you need it.