The Ten Essentials: What Every Hiker Should Have in Their Backpack

Even on a well-marked trail, having a map and compass (and knowing how to use them) is essential. Some of our favorite maps are from National Geographic and Purple Lizard, but often, the best maps come from local guides and outfitters. You should also download a map (using apps like Ride with GPS, AllTrails, Gaia GPS, or CalTopo) on your phone and/or GPS watch. Just don’t rely solely on tech. There’s always a chance your battery could die.

Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat go a long way. Sunburn and snow blindness are real hazards, even on cloudy days or cooler hikes. Don’t forget SPF chapstick, too! Some people prefer wearing UV-protective clothing in lieu of having to reapply sunscreen on their arms and legs. My favorite sun shirt is cheap and super breathable.

A small headlamp weighs almost nothing but can be a lifesaver if your day hike runs long. Even if you plan to be back by sunset, unexpected delays happen. We prefer rechargeable headlamps that have varied brightness and a red light feature. Don’t count on your phone flashlight—it drains battery fast.

Weather can shift quickly, especially at higher elevations. Always carry an extra warm layer and a lightweight rain jacket, even on short hikes. Good layers are worth the investment. I’ve had this Eddie Bauer down jacket for over a decade and it’s held up great. Another lightweight, breathable layer that I almost always pack is my Senchi hoodie, made of alpha direct fabric. Outdoor Research makes incredibly lightweight and reliable gear, like this rain jacket.

Your kit should align with your needs and your knowledge. Know how to use what you bring. Think small but thoughtful: blister care, bandages, any personal meds (epipens, inhalers, glucose tabs, etc.), and maybe some ibuprofen. One of the best things you can do is take a Wilderness First Aid course, like those through SOLO or NOLS.

Cotton balls dipped in Vaseline and a lighter is a super-reliable combo. I prefer to have a rechargeable or refillable lighter, but BIC lighters are cheap and weigh virtually nothing. Waterproof matches and a couple dryer lint balls are solid backups. Fire isn’t just about warmth—it can also signal for help.

Always carry a knife and a few feet of paracord with a carabiner—you’d be surprised how many problems those few items can solve. A small multi-tool or even a satellite communicator might make sense for more remote trips. Check out the knives and multitools from Leatherman. I use a Zoleo satellite communicator, but Garmin InReach is another tried and true favorite amongst the outdoor community.

Bring more snacks than you think you’ll need—like energy bars, gummies, trail mix, jerky. Toss in a salty option and something with electrolytes. I usually pack about 100 calories per hour of hiking and account for a few extra hours in case something goes awry. You may not plan to be out long, but calories are critical if plans change.

Water is one of the most important things you can carry—and one of the heaviest. Start your hike with at least 2 liters, even on cooler days. Compact filters like the Sawyer Squeeze or Katadyn BeFree are great for most U.S. backcountry water sources, but be aware they don’t remove viruses. Other options include UV purification and chemicals like iodine and chlorine. Know your water source and what filter type you may need.

Even on a short day hike, having some form of emergency shelter is a smart, lightweight safety net. If you’re injured, lost, or caught in unexpected weather, shelter can protect you from wind, rain, and cold—helping to prevent hypothermia and making you more visible to rescuers. You don’t need to carry a full tent; a contractor-grade trash bag, a reflective mylar blanket, or an ultralight bivy sack can provide critical protection in a pinch.