Day Hike Packing List

Clothing

• —Moisture-wicking shirt
• —Hiking pants, shorts, or leggings
• —Lightweight insulating layer (fleece or puffy)
• —Rain jacket or windshell
• —Merino wool or synthetic hiking socks×2
• —Trail runners or hiking boots
• —Sun hat with brim
• —Sunglasses (UV400)
• —Gaiters (for snow, scree, or brush)

Navigation

• —Trail map (printed or downloaded offline)
• —Baseplate compass
• —GPS app with offline maps (e.g. AllTrails, Gaia)
• —Trailhead permit (if required)

Food & Water

• —Water bottles or hydration reservoir (2L+)×2
• —Water filter or purification tablets
• —Electrolyte powder or tablets×2
• —Energy bars or trail snacks×4
• —Lunch or sandwich
• —Emergency ration bar

Safety & First Aid

• —First aid kit (compact)
• —Blister treatment kit
• —Sunscreen SPF 30+
• —Insect repellent
• —Emergency whistle
• —Emergency bivy or space blanket
• —Signal mirror
• —Personal locator beacon or satellite messenger

General

• —Daypack (20–30L)
• —Trekking poles
• —Headlamp with extra batteries
• —Power bank for phone
• —Pocket knife or multi-tool
• —Lighter and waterproof matches
• —Trowel and waste bags (LNT)
• —Trash bags (pack-it-out)×2
• —ID and emergency contact card