10 Day Hiking Essentials: what to pack for you next day hiking adventure. 

Since moving to West Michigan a few years ago, hiking has become one of my favorite outdoor activities. Here in West Michigan we are pretty lucky to have some amazing trails. We might not have mountains, but we have many trails that lead to Lake Michigan and the views are always breathtaking. Today I wanted to share my day hiking essentials. I think it is important to have a few essential items while hiking.

daypack

I always carry a daypack with me. Last year I purchased the Gregory Maya 16 Daypack and it has been great. It is lightweight and there is plenty of room to carry everything that I need. I have a really short torso and this daypack fits me perfectly. It also has two water bottle holders on the side and lots of pockets to keep things organized.

sun protection

Sun protection is very important, especially when hiking outdoors. Last year I bought this hiking hat from Columbia and it has worked out great. This might not be the most stylish hat out there, but it does a great job protecting you from the sun. It has UPF 50 which blocks out 98% of harmful UVA and UVB rays. It is very lightweight and collapses down for easy packing. It also has a drawstring to help you get the right fit. Also, make sure to bring sunscreen for you hike.

water

Make sure to bring plently enough water with you for you hike. Whether you want to carry water bottles in your daypack or a water hydration bladder, it is important to bring plenty of water with you. The Gregory Daypack doesn't come with a water bladder but it does have a special pocket for one!

hiking shoes & socks 

Having proper foot ware is essential for a successful day hike. You want to look for a hiking boot that will give you enough support, have good tread and is waterproof. Since I avoid buying wool products, finding hiking socks can be difficult. Last year I purchased a few pairs of Wigman hiking socks and I have really liked them. The company does sell wool socks but they have a few sock options that are wool-free.

food 

I alway make sure to pack a few snack with me. Even if I'm just going on a very short hike, I like to make sure I have a snack on hand just in case. I like hiking with high protein gomacro bars because they are made from simple, plant-based ingredients and are non-GMO, gluten-free and vegan! Gomacro bars have complex carbs which will help to keep you feeling full for longer and your energy level sustained while out on your hike! 

camera 

I always like to bring my camera while hiking, especially if I have never been there before. Every hike offers something different and you just never know what you'll see on your next adventure. I love capturing special moments from my hike to share with others. I used to bring my DSLR with me, but I wanted something that was a lot lighter and easier to carry. A few months ago, I got the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 V. So far I have been really happy with this camera. It is light weight and doesn't take up much space in my bag. I also carry this Manfrotto mini tripod. It is really lightweight and it perfect for vlogging your hike or helping you take your photos! 

External Battery

I have had my phone battery die many times while out on the trail. To prevent this from happening, I like to carry an external battery with me. I have found the my iphone tends to lose its battery charge very quickly in the winter months. Sometimes the phone just gets too cold and the battery dies.

Fitness Tracker/GPS 

I like to wear my Fitbit while hiking. Before I start my hike, I go to the Fitbit app on my phone and go to track exercise. I set it to hike and allow the phone to access my location. This will keep track of your hike, but will also help you know your location. If you end off the path and you aren't quite sure which way to go, you can just check the map on your app!

map

Along with my Fitbit, I like to have a copy of the trail map. Sometimes I will print a copy of the trail before leaving home but most of the time I make sure to grab a trail map if there is one available. If there isn't a map to grab, take a picture of the large trail map on your phone.

first aid-kit 

You just never know what will happen on your next hike. I like to keep things safe a carry a small travel size first aid-kit with me while hiking.

Disclaimer: Gomacro sent me a box of their product to review. I wasn't compensated to write this post. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

I'd love to hear some of your day hiking favorites!
Let me know in the comments some of your favorite hiking essentials! 🙂
XO Jeni