Day Hiking Checklist for a Safe and Fun Trip

We live in a country that maintains over 200,000 miles of state and federal hiking trails. With COVID-19 making social distancing a necessity, there has never been a better time to take advantage of the natural beauty and exercise opportunity hiking offers.

But, before you hike, you should always prepare yourself with the items you will need. Read on for a complete day hiking checklist that will allow you to enjoy the great outdoors.

First Aid Kit

Focus on all the fun you will experience on your hike. But, do not forget about preparing yourself for potential emergencies.

Pack a first aid kit with items you may need. Your first-aid day hiking equipment checklist should include:

• Cell phone
• Sunscreen
• Bug spray
• Tweezers
• Bandaids
• Gauze pads
• Medical tape
• An antihistimine like Benydryll
• Antibacterial ointment like Neosporin
• Ibuprofin
• A compass
• A knife

Make safety your first priority for this trip. Whenever you venture into nature, anything can happen.

Apparel

Begin by taking a look at the climate of your hiking trail. On the nicest days, higher elevations may experience much colder weather than the trailhead.

Dress appropriately for the climate and ecosystem. This will keep you both comfortable and safe.

Wear a comfortable hiking boot with proper tread. Thick socks will keep your feet warm in snow or absorb your sweat in the heat, and they will prevent blisters. Pack a pair of extra socks in case yours get wet.

In the cold, you will want to later up with great looking mens outdoor clothes. Layers allow you to take something off if a strenuous hike warms you up too much. You will also need gloves, a hat, and a weatherproof jacket to protect you from the elements. 

Warm weather hikes do not call for typical summer wear. You will need long sleeves and pants made of loose cotton to protect your skin from the sun. Covering your skin also helps protect against bugs, like mosquitoes and ticks.

Hydration

Each hiker should carry 1 liter of water for every 2 hours you plan on hiking. Increase to one liter per hour for hot days or extreme wind conditions. Overestimate and carry more weight rather than underestimate and risk dehydration if you do not know the trail well.

Food

Hiking burns a lot of calories. Carry nutritious snacks to keep your energy up. Beef jerky, granola bars, and unsalted nuts provide easy to eat nutrients you will need.

Hiking Backpack

How will you carry all of this stuff? Invest in a good hiking backpack. You want something with comfortable straps that will carry all of your essentials.

Camera

The beauty you see on your day hiking trip will often blow your mind. You may see unexpected, once in a lifetime sights.

Pack a camera to capture it all! Take pictures, but leave everything else where you find it for an ecologically sound hike.

Go Over Your Day Hiking Checklist Twice

Before you leave for the trailhead, go over your day hiking checklist carefully. Then, go over it again as you pack and dress.

Bringing along the right gear and supplies will ensure a safe and enjoyable day trip. For more fun ideas on keeping busy during the pandemic, keep reading the lifestyle section on our website!