Gear Essentials
The Ten Essentials
Before we talk about specific gear, every hiker should carry some version of the ten essentials on every trip - even short day hikes. Things go wrong fast in the backcountry.
- Navigation - Map, compass, GPS device or phone app (download offline maps)
- Sun protection - Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat
- Insulation - Extra layers beyond what the forecast suggests
- Illumination - Headlamp with fresh batteries
- First aid - A basic kit you’ve actually opened and checked
- Fire - Waterproof matches or lighter
- Repair tools - Knife, duct tape, cord
- Nutrition - Extra food beyond your planned meals
- Hydration - Extra water and a purification method
- Emergency shelter - Bivy sack or space blanket
Footwear
The single most important gear decision. Blisters end more hikes than fitness does.
Trail Runners vs. Boots
The hiking boot orthodoxy is fading. Many experienced hikers - including most thru-hikers - now prefer trail runners for everything short of heavy pack loads or technical scrambles.
Choose trail runners if: You value speed and comfort, hike in mostly dry conditions, carry under 25 lbs, and have strong ankles.
Choose boots if: You carry heavy loads, hike in wet/snowy conditions, need ankle support on rocky or off-trail terrain, or cross a lot of streams.
Break-In Period
Whatever you buy, walk at least 50 miles in new footwear before any serious hike. Socks matter almost as much as the shoes - merino wool is the gold standard for blister prevention and temperature regulation.
Packs
Day Hikes (15-30L)
For most day hikes, a 20-25L pack with a hip belt, water bottle pockets, and a rain cover handles everything. Don’t overthink it. You need room for the ten essentials, lunch, and an extra layer.
Overnight / Multi-Day (40-65L)
This is where fit matters enormously. Visit an outfitter and get properly fitted. The hip belt should carry 80% of the weight on your hips, not your shoulders. Key features to look for:
- Adjustable torso length
- Load lifter straps
- Ventilated back panel
- Bottom sleeping bag compartment
- Side compression straps
Layers
The layering system keeps you comfortable across a wide range of conditions.
Base Layer
Moisture-wicking fabric against your skin. Merino wool or synthetic - never cotton. Cotton absorbs sweat, loses all insulating value when wet, and takes forever to dry.
Mid Layer
Insulation. A fleece or lightweight down jacket. Fleece is cheaper and works when wet. Down is lighter and packs smaller but is useless if soaked.
Outer Layer
Wind and rain protection. A lightweight shell that blocks wind and sheds rain is worth its weight in gold above treeline. Hardshell for serious rain, windshirt for fair-weather ridge walks.
Navigation
Phone Apps
AllTrails, Gaia GPS, and CalTopo are all solid. Download offline maps before you leave cell service. Your phone is useless as a navigation tool without downloaded maps.
Paper Backup
For anything remote or off-trail, carry a paper topo map and a baseplate compass. Know how to use them. GPS batteries die, phones break, and satellite signals fade in deep canyons.
Budget Gear That Works
You don’t need to spend $300 on a rain jacket for day hikes. Good budget picks:
| Item | Budget Pick | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rain shell | Frogg Toggs UL2 | $20, ultralight, not durable but works |
| Base layer | 32 Degrees merino blend | $15, surprisingly good for the price |
| Headlamp | Nitecore NU25 | $36, USB-C rechargeable, very light |
| Pack | REI Trail 25 | $70, solid dayhiking pack |
| First aid | Adventure Medical Ultralight | $15, well-stocked for the size |