The reasons for going hiking are numerous and each hiker has his or her own individual and unique reasons why they hike. Some of the most popular reasons are positive health effects, connecting with nature and reducing stress. Walking is one of the simplest activities that almost anyone can do.

As we all strive to make beautiful moments worth remembering in life, it is very important that you plan a good route before you go, what you need to take, whether you are an amateur or an experienced hiker, and what equipment you need for your adventure so it would end only with tiredness and a smile.

What do we need for one day of hiking? What we always wear and what we constantly forget?
This list below is deliberately exaggerated, to serve as a reminder to prepare for a one-day hiking action. Some things don’t even need to be taken out of a backpack. Depending on the time of year, the amount and content of things in the backpack will vary.

Here we go – hiking 101 list:

  • Backpack: backpack up to 40l;
  • Shoes: Outdoor Walking Shoes (For Easy One-Day Tours) or Hiking boots (for advanced routes);
  • Clothes: Quick-drying pants, polar sweatshirt, synthetic long-sleeve sweatshirt against Sun and insects, active laundry (short or long sleeves), cap, bandana, adequate sports hiking socks, soft shell jacket or sweatshirt, winter jacket;
  • Rain protection: Waterproof jacket, raincoat;
  • Sun protection: UV Cream Lip balm, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat;
  • Navigation: Map and map holster, compass, GPS device or app on your phone, external phone battery, binoculars;
  • Hydration: Water, isotonic drink, tea in a thermos, water disinfectant, glass;
  • Nutrition: Lunch (main course), energy food (chocolates, protein bars, dextrose, dried fruits), meal bowl;
  • Security: Headlamp and spare batteries, lighter, knife, old paper, spare shoelace;
  • First Aid and Medication: First aid kit, personal medicines, insects spray or cream;
  • Equipment: Walking sticks, camera, radio stations, phone;
  • Personal hygiene: Toilet paper, hand disinfection gel, wet wipes, waste bag;

Additional tips

  • Never leave trash in the wild!
  • Follow the path and always have your group in sight. Even if you are separating from the group, inform the guide.
  • Come on time to the meeting point, many guides will not wait for you if you are late.
  • Help others if you see that they need help.

In order to get inspiration injection, we have prepared an amazing article about Patagonia trekking experience, so let us know what do you think!