Day Hiking Checklist

Day Hiking Checklist

· Map (with protective case)

· Compass

· GPS (optional)

· Sunscreen

· Lip balm

· Sunglasses

· Headlamp or flashlight (plus spare)

· Extra batteries

· First-aid kit (see our First-aid checklist)

· Water bottles or Hydration system

· Daypack

· Multifunction watch with altimeter

· Camera

· Trekking poles

· Insect repellent

· Toilet paper

· Hand sanitizer

· Cell or satellite phone

· Energy food (bars, gels, chews, trail mix)

· Energy beverages or drink mixes

· Lunch

· Utensils

· Quick-dry towel

· Bag for collecting trash

· Post-hike snacks, water, towel, clothing change

· Trip itinerary left w/friend + under car seat

· Wicking T-shirt

· Wicking underwear

· Quick-drying pants or shorts

· Long-sleeve shirt (for bugs, sun)

· Sun-shielding hat

· Insulating fleece jacket or vest

· Bandana or buff

This day hiking checklist is intended to help remember thing that we sometimes forget but not everyone will bring everything on this list. When I go hiking I like to have a backpack in which you can put a hydration pack, I find having a hydration pack a lot easier and more accessible then having to get your water bottle from your backpack. Whatever the weather is predicting it is always a good idea to bring a warm sweater and waterproof jacket just in case the weather changes. Wearing a good pair of shoes or boots is essential, also a good pair of socks made preferably of synthetic material that will breathe and not just get wet and stay wet. It is also a good idea to bring extra food just in case the hike takes longer than planned or you are more hungry than usual.