Hiking Checklists
Day Hiking Checklist:
These are recommendations
for hiking trips that will take an entire day to complete. Shorter
trips, two miles or less, require little equipment other than some
water, camera, and possibly binoculars. Add a snack, and you're
good to go. Of course, there are always exceptions. Some short
trails can be quite strenuous. Use common sense when determining
what to take. Better to be safe than sorry.
- Small backpack designed for dayhiking or a hydration pack.
- Two or three liters of water/person on hot days.
- Snacks such as beef jerky, peanuts, and raisins.
- Take along water purification tablets or a water filter in case
of additional water needs.
- Small first aid kit.
- Compass - it's easy to get turned around when most landmarks
look alike. Can be considered optional in some cases. Consult your
map before heading out.
- Possibly a bee sting kit for anyone who may be allergic.
- Pain relievers and stomach ailment medication.
- A map of the area you’ll be hiking.
- Books for plant and animal identification can be rewarding, but
optional due to weight concerns.
- Camera and binoculars. (optional)
- Rain gear and extra socks can’t hurt.
- Sunscreen and hats can be useful as well.
- Flashlight, flashlight, flashlight, or a headlamp. Did I mention flashlight?
Even for day-hikers, a flashlight can be highly useful. Found that
out first hand during my first trip into the Middle Prong
Wilderness Area of Pisgah Nat’l Forest. Got caught deep in the
woods at night, only to find out the flashlight was in the truck.
Thanks to some matches and a full moon, we made it out. It was cold
and windy, and we had to use a stream as a trail for quite some
distance. If I had only remembered that flashlight.
Multi-day hiking:
For hiking that requires more
than two days in the backcountry, you should include the items
listed above, plus a few more
- Backpack ranging from 3,000 to 6,000 cubic inches depending on
how many days. 3,000 should cover a weekend trip.
- Proper tent or tarp for the number of people camping.
- Sleeping bags.
- Sleeping pads.
- Possibly a cell phone in case of emergency. Have respect for
others and leave it off until you need it.
- Make sure you take enough food.
- Candle or battery operated lantern.
- Lightweight backpacking stove and cookware.
Wilderness Areas:
This is a list of items that
the U.S. Forest Service recommends you take along when traveling in
designated wilderness areas.
- Extra clothing.
- Extra food.
- Sunglasses.
- Knife.
- Fire Starter.
- Matchess (preferably waterproof).
- First aid kit.
- Flashlight.
- Map.
- Compass.
You can find virtually everything you need to complete your checklist right here in our Gear Shop
