9 MUST HAVE Hiking ESSENTIALS You’ll LOVE {Perfect for Beginners}

Updated: April 2024

Hiking is a fantastic activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and fitness levels. Let’s make your hiking experience a pleasant one by bringing along some necessary items for your adventure. The hiking essentials…

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“Thousands of tired, nerve-shaken, over-civilised people are beginning to find out that going to the mountains is going home; that wildness is a necessity.”

John Muir

Hiking Essentials: APPAREL

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1- Clothing

Obviously, you need clothes. That is definitely a hiking essential. But which ones work best?

Most clothing can work just fine. But appropriate clothing can make hiking more comfortable.

Dress in easy-to-move-in, moisture-wicking clothing for the highest comfort. We get all 4 seasons in Arkansas, so clothing varies according to the time of year.

SUMMER– A tank top and shorts

FALL/SPRING– A tank top or t-shirt, with a light jacket, and leggings

Be sure to pack a rain jacket or poncho just in case. And don’t forget the bug spray!

WINTER– Layers are key. Wear thermal gear, 2-4 layers on the top, beanie, gloves, thicker wool socks

Pack on layers that can be taken off as you warm up. Even on the coldest hikes, you may be taking the jacket and beanie off.

These clothing options work from 20 degrees to 90 degrees. I haven’t hiked outside of those temperatures.

“I found far more answers in the woods than I ever did in the city.”

Mary Davis

2- Hiking Shoes

Another hiking essential is a pair of shoes. As with clothing, most shoes can work. But, the proper shoes can make a difference in safety and comfort.

In the beginning, I hiked in athletic shoes. That works fine for flat ground. If you hike on rocky ground, or slopes, or have to crawl over rocks, a good pair of boots are a great investment.

I bought my first pair of hiking boots last summer and I LOVE them. They keep my feet warm and dry and aren’t too heavy. I did size up my boots to allow room for warm, cozy socks. I have since moved on to another pair of boots that I love.

For my hiking boot journey and review, to help you decide on the perfect pair of hiking boots for YOU –>

The Best Hiking Boots for Women: Real-World Reviews.

“You need special shoes for hiking – and a bit of a special soul as well.”

erri Guillemets

3- Hiking Socks

Hiking essential #3 are socks. The same rule applies to socks… any socks can work, BUT, socks made for the occasion can make a difference in comfort. Socks add padding, absorb moisture, and protect your feet.

I only recently invested in my first pair of real “hiking” socks, and I LOVE them! Hiking socks come in varying heights and “weights.” I opted for lightweight crew socks.

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Hiking Essentials: SUPPLIES

4- Water

The 4th hiking essential is a big one. A MUST. Always make sure you have water before heading out on a hike. If it’s a long hike, throw an extra water bottle in your backpack.

Water is heavy to lug along but absolutely necessary. My favorite water bottle goes on every hike with me! Zulu bottles are so good I own multiple (black, 2 blues, dark pink, light pink, and purple)!

Another option is a hydration pack (a backpack that houses a water bladder). I like my water to stay ice cold and don’t have an issue with the weight of the water bottles, so I haven’t ventured into using hydration packs just yet.

“Carry as little as possible, but choose that little with care.”

Earl Shaffer

5- Snacks

Even if you don’t think you will need a snack, pack one anyway. Even a small package of trail mix can make a huge difference when you start to run low on fuel.

Snacks are good to keep on hand in case the hike goes off course and takes longer than planned.

@the.brandi.edwards

www.sunrises2sunsets.net #woods #forest #hiking #nature #outdoors #love #loveyou #adventure #smileyadventures #inspiration #lovelife #mylove #2022 #fyp #sunrises2sunsets @smileyadventures

♬ Love Grows – Where My Rosemary Goes – SAPPHIRE

Hiking Essentials: GEAR

6- Hiking Backpack

Number 6 on the hiking essentials list is a hiking backpack to carry all of your hiking supplies. I initially started with a standard backpack. It worked for a while, but I soon upgraded because #1- It put pressure on my shoulders as it hung, and #2- it was hot on my back, causing my shirt to be wet with sweat after most hikes.

My first “real” hiking backpack has changed all of that.

My Alpine backpack has been amazing and 100% worth the investment! When strapped properly, the backpack will put less pressure on the shoulders and back and keep the bag from sitting against the back (with mesh supports).

7- First Aid Kit

Number 7 on the hiking essential list is a first aid kit. You can make do without this, but it’s wise to carry one. There are many first aid kits to choose from, but I opt for the smaller, lighter kits since I will have to carry the weight along on my hike.

8- Phone

Maybe not on the hiking essentials list for everyone, but for me, it is. Always take a phone (and don’t forget to charge it before you go!) to call for help, track hikes, and take pictures/videos.

Most places we hike do not get great cell service, but the GPS tracking can still work for our AllTrails app to help guide our hiking routes.

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9- Optional HIKING ACCESSORIES

Not on my hiking essentials, but helpful items:

• Sunglasses
• Ball cap
• Sunscreen
• Trekking poles
• Flashlight
• Compass
• Whistle
• Portable Phone Charger
• Pee Cloth

Check out my full hiking essentials list HERE

And my cold weather hiking essentials HERE

“There is always an adventure waiting in the woods.”

Katelyn S. Bolds

Preparing for a hiking trip can involve some trial and error as you identify what you need and want to bring along. It’s important to keep in mind that each item you pack adds weight that you’ll have to carry on the trail.

Hopefully, these hiking essentials can be a good starting point for you to decide what you need on YOUR journey!

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Do you have any HIKING ESSENTIALS that I haven’t listed? Send me a message/recommendation!

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