With no sugar and nine grams of protein, you'll be well fueled on your trek with these beef and turkey sticks. Choose for a six- or eight-pack that includes flavors like jalapeño, salt and pepper venison, pepperoni and Italian style. If you happen to forget your lunch, these bars will keep you energized throughout your hike.

These easy bites are packed with nutrients and enough calories to keep you full for longer treks. Your coffee will remain nice and warm for those early morning hikes in this Yeti mug that comes with a handle and a lid so your coffee won't spill.

Plus, the handle makes it easy to fasten onto your hiking backpack with a carabiner when you're done. Shop TODAY senior social media editor Kate McCarthy loves these poles not only because they're lightweight and inexpensive, but because they're versatile and "perfect for people who are just getting started who don't want to invest too much," she said.

Included in this pack is eight different attachments, which work wonders when going skiing and these are sitting in your backseat. If you need a nap during your hike, take a rest in the wilderness with this sleeping pad.

The inflatable mat is made of waterproof material and features thermal insulation for temperatures as low as 32 degrees Fahrenheit. One Amazon reviewer rated this pad five stars for its durable feature.

I blew it up in Colorado, slept on it for 3 nights with no loss of air at any time. Whether you need a little pick-me-up in the middle of a 14'er or you're aching for a caffeine break once you reach the top of the peak, reach for this portable coffee maker.

Enjoying your coffee couldn't be easier, as this set also includes a mug with a lid, so you can truly take it on-the-go. If your hike leads you to an amazing destination that also happens to include two trees, take a minute to set up camp and enjoy the view with this hammock.

Available in both single or double, depending on if you want space to share with a friend, this one comes with everything you need, including straps, a carrying case and two carabiners. Pack all your hiking essentials in this ultra-lightweight and collapsible backpack from Away.

This carry-all baggage combines recyclable materials and a water-resistant fabric you can bring to all your adventures. The backpack also features lightly padded shoulder straps to easily carry on while climbing a hill.

Never run out of water with this water filter featuring a three-pound reservoir. The collapsible bag is easy to pack and store for easy filtering. For unexpected cold weather, snuggle into this recycled blanket. The puffy piece is made with synthetic fabric and a quilting pattern that will keep you warm.

Also, it's easy to pack and store in your small backpack. Summer weather can be humid, sticky and sweltering, but one thing expert hikers agree on is avoiding one type of fabric when hiking: cotton.

Basically, it holds it in the fiber and if you're going to a higher elevation, it can make you colder," shares Rizzo. Instead, you'll want moisture-wicking fabrics and weather-proof materials that will keep help you withstand abrupt changes with the forecast.

One of the best materials for hiking is merino wool or merino-blend because they're known to be breathable. As for the outfitting when preparing to go on a hike, Levy recommends donning a base and mid layers and keeping an outer layer in your backpack for when it gets chilly outside.

While some people opt for leggings when hiking, Levy and Rizzo prefer trousers and shorts because they're more comfortable and less constricting. Available in numerous sizes, lengths and colors, these nylon shorts from Patagonia were finished off with a water repellent, making them perfect for humid, wet climates.

An elastic waistband helps give these shorts a relaxed feel and fit, so you won't feel restricted when hiking. Misty mornings are no match for this windbreaker from Cotopaxi that's available in 10 of the brand's distinct colorways. Elastic binding at the hood, cuff and wrists help to keep water out and your clothes and skin underneath dry, while a kangaroo-like pocket offers ample amounts of space for essentials.

The shirt also has antimicrobial treatment, a three-panel hood and thumbholes to hold the shirt in place. If you prefer a tighter fit, these lightweight pants are water-resistant, durable and form-fitting for a comfortable hike.

The pants combine a mix of TUFFLITE, nylon, polyester and spandex with GSM a thicker fabric for optimal endurance. Available in eight different colors, choose to stand out on your hike in pants that are as relaxed as one can get while climbing.

Made with nylon, these pants prove to be durable and versatile. Reviewers of all heights dub these as "the best pants ever," as they come in a cropped length, meaning you won't be tripping over excess fabric.

This fleece sweatshirt not only looks like some of the trails you'd be hiking, it also gives back to national parks in an attempt to leave them in better conditions.

In this multicolored option, Acadia National Park is depicted. It's made out of recycled polyester, meaning it will provide warmth, yet remain breathable while hiking. These pants feel more elevated than your traditional trousers.

Aside from featuring a classic design, the lightweight pair is designed for warm weather and all your outdoor activities like camping , climbing and hiking. Choosing the right shoes and fit for hiking will determine your performance. According to Antin, a pair of trail runners and sneakers are great for most conditions.

Looking for a water-resistant sneaker? This pair has a quick-dry upper, anti-odor lining and MultiGrip outsole to keep your feet protected through unexpected puddles. Hoka just doesn't sell running shoes!

Their hiking shoes prove to be just as high-quality and durable as their sneakers, thanks to its lightweight design and construction. Rubber lugs will keep you moving without fear of getting debris lodged inside, while mesh sides keep feet dry in case of puddles.

Study the forecast, research typical conditions, and pack your bag accordingly. You can layer this with your hiking top, rain jacket, and down jacket to stay comfortable as temperatures drop. RAIN JACKET — Have a lightweight rain jacket on hand if there is even the slightest hint of precipitation in the forecast.

Getting stuck in the wilderness with no protection from rain can leave you vulnerable and at the mercy of the elements. WINTER JACKET — A packable, lightweight winter jacket is a must-have for day hikes where wind chill temperatures might dip close to freezing. The layers of insulation in your jacket will help trap body heat and keep you warm when things turn nasty.

RAIN PANTS — If your day hike forecast includes the possibility of substantial rain, bring along a pair of packable rain pants to pair with a rain jacket. LONG UNDERWEAR — When day hiking in cold weather, bring a pair of long underwear to provide an extra layer of insulation for your legs.

Conserving heat in your legs will regulate your body temperature and allow you to push on as temperatures plummet. WINTER HAT — During cold-weather day hikes, body heat escapes from your head faster than any other part of your body.

Pack a warm winter hat to help stabilize your body temperature, and you will expend less energy trying to stay warm. GLOVES — Day hiking in cold weather with exposed hands can suck the fun out of your day, along with your body heat.

It can also lead to hypothermia or frostbite in extreme cases. FACEWEAR — Constant exposure to the elements — wind, dust, rain, snow, and sun — can do a number on your face, so bring along some proper protection for your next day hike.

Multifunctional facewear can be used in a myriad of ways and will shield your face from almost anything nature throws its way. Proper gaiters will block water and debris from entering the opening of your shoe, keeping your feet dry and undisturbed in the process.

CRAMPONS — When hiking on packed snow and ice, crampons should be an essential part of your day hiking gear checklist. An effective set of crampons will penetrate ice and grip frozen trails, preventing slips and falls that could derail your adventure.

Food and water are your hiking fuels, so kick start your day hike with plenty of calories. A strenuous, full-day hike can easily burn 3, calories. Some of those calories can be consumed right before you hit the trail, and the rest should be close at hand in your day pack.

SNACKS — Healthy hiking snacks will be the day hiking fuel that keeps you going, so be sure to pack enough calories to sustain yourself for a long day of hiking. Bring calorie-dense, ready-to-eat foods like nuts, jerky, and meal bars that will keep you going all day on the trail.

LUNCH — Snacks alone can get boring, so consider packing a lunch for a mid-day morale boost. If you want a hot meal, pack a lightweight stove and a dehydrated meal.

Or pack something as simple as a sandwich to reward yourself for a long day of hiking. WATER — Staying hydrated is as important as consuming enough calories on your day hike. Bring enough water!

Or purify as you go, providing there are reliable water sources along the trail. Consume at least one liter of water per two hours of hiking, and even more on hot, strenuous, high-altitude hikes. Other options include using iodine tablets or zapping your water with UV rays.

All these methods allow you to carry less water weight as you hike and will allow you to clean water sources in case of an emergency. Large-volume hydration packs, insulated containers, collapsible pouches , or old water bottles — the choice is yours.

Losing your way in the backcountry can be stressful and even life-threatening, so come prepared. MAP — Though many trails are very easy to follow, always bring a detailed print map for less-established day hikes into the backcountry.

Should you get lost or disoriented, a good topographical map will show you the contours of the land and guide you back to civilization. Always pack a reliable compass — magnetic or digital — and use it in conjunction with your map to keep moving in the right direction. CELL PHONE — Many hiking purists choose to travel with only a printed map, but the truth is that smartphones can also be excellent tools for navigating the wilderness.

And keep your battery charged and a backup map close at hand. OFFLINE DIGITAL MAPS — Many smartphone navigation apps allow you to download an offline map of your hike before you hit the trail. Doing so will let you trace your live location along the trail route without the need for cell service.

My personal favorite app is Gaia GPS. Whether you become lost, threatened , injured, or sick on your hike, bringing along the all-important emergency gear will help you right the ship and return to civilization safely.

FIRST AID KIT — Prepare for injuries both big and small and pack a basic first aid kit on your next day hike. You can purchase a lightweight first aid kit or piece together one from your medicine cabinet. Some hikers keep their whistles close at hand, but many modern-day packs have whistles built into their buckles.

BEACON — Personal locator beacons can be expensive, but they consistently save the lives of hikers in emergency situations. These beacons have technology that tracks your location anywhere in the world, and some can also download maps, send SOS messages, and load weather forecasts.

The ability to start a controlled fire to signal for help or to keep warm in the cold could be life-saving. A basic multitool can repair gear, assist in first aid, make kindling, and prepare food in an emergency.

EMERGENCY BLANKET — In the dreadful event that you get stranded overnight on your day hike, a lightweight emergency blanket could save your life. BEAR SPRAY — If your day hike takes you into an area known to have bears, bring some potent bear spray to defend yourself against any aggressive ones.

The highly-concentrated pepper spray will temporarily blind and disorient the bear from as far away as 35 feet, giving you time to make a quick getaway. Take care of your body and the environment on your day hike by packing the items needed to manage your basic health along the way.

The items below will help protect you against sun, bugs, bacteria and allergies, all while leaving no trace. Backpacker Magazine has written two great posts on this topic: one for over-the-counter meds and one for doctor-prescribed meds.

If you have any allergies to food or medication, let your hiking partners know beforehand and tell them how to help in case of a serious reaction.

BUG SPRAY — Insects can often overwhelm you in the backcountry, so bring some effective bug repellent if you anticipate pesky insects on your day hike. Be sure to pack a tube of long-lasting, UV-rated chapstick — especially on dry and sunny hikes — and your lips will thank you later.

HAND SANITIZER — Hand washing in the backcountry is cumbersome and not always environmentally friendly, so bring an alcohol-based hand sanitizer to keep clean while you hike. Always use hand sanitizer before you eat to neutralize any bacteria, parasites, or viruses that you may have encountered along the trail.

Dig a hole at least six inches deep — feet from any water sources, trails, and campsites — and bury your waste entirely, letting it compost naturally into the earth below. And always pack out your TP and avoid burying it at all costs. Many brands of toilet paper have harmful chemicals that will be released into the earth when buried.

However, it is an important piece of safety equipment in case of an emergency so always take it with you. Sit mat — optional This is one of my favourite pieces of inexpensive hiking equipment. A folding foam sit mat costs just a couple of pounds and can prevent a wet, muddy bum when stopping for breaks and lunch.

Rubbish bag — I always suggest you bring a small rubbish bag with you, not only for your rubbish but also great if you can pick up any litter you see on the route so that we leave the environment in a better state than we found it. First Aid Kit — Please always take a first aid kit with you.

Just have it in your bag and keep it there so you never forget it! I would include; a fire source of waterproof matches or a lighter, a small knife or multitool, a spare lace, maybe some repair patches, some cable ties, and that oh so important gaffa tape.

I tend to wrap the gaffa tape around my water bottle or trekking pole to save space, rather than having to pack a roll with you.

Although many rucksacks now incorporate a safety whistle as part of the chest strap buckle. Emergency Shelter — I always take a heat-reflective foil blanket with me, they weigh next to nothing and can be a lifesaver.

Again just keep it your bag and never take it out, that way you will never forget it. If you are hiking in a group, then instead or as an addition, I would recommend taking a Bothy Bag shelter.

Having the correct clothing with you can be the difference between a wonderful day hiking and a very long miserable slog! The key to comfort is the principle of layering, adding or removing layers of clothing in response to changes in weather conditions and body temperature.

Walking Boots or Approach Shoes — When walking all day and covering good mileage it is really important to have good support for your feet. Please DO NOT hike all day with new boots that you have not sufficiently worn in, as the blisters will very likely ruin your day!

If you have any hot spots that have blistered in the past, then I highly recommend buying some wide Zinc Oxide tape Strappal and pre-emptively tape your feet before you even leave the house.

Socks — Breathable hiking socks keep your feet ventilated as much as possible and provide some cushioning. I wear just one pair of mid-weight hiking socks, but some walkers opt to wear a pair of thin liner socks and a thicker outer pair.

This is completely personal preference, so my suggestion is to go out and try walking in various socks on hikes of just a few hours to see what works well for you. Do not try new socks on a big day… blisters are a real spoiler. Long-sleeve or short-sleeve is down to personal preference, as is whether you choose a technical synthetic fabric or merino wool.

Try to avoid cotton layers if you can, these tend to stay damp, heavy and lose their insulating properties. This is the one piece of hiking kit that is worth investing in and spending a little bit more money on if you can.

Gortex jackets are ideal. Rain Poncho — optional If you are in any doubt of the waterproofness of your jacket, or if the weather forecast is predicting very long periods of heavy rain, then I would recommend considering a cheap plastic poncho to go over the top of everything £10 — £12 hiking poncho on Amazon.

You might not look great, but being wet through is no fun! This can be a useful spare layer for emergencies or to put on during rest stops. Waterproof Trousers — Waterproof trousers to go on top are essential if there is any chance of rain, plus they can also add an extra layer of protection from the wind on a cold day.

A buff is a great option, as it can be used to keep you warm or wick sweat and protect you from the sun. I tend to carry just 1 litre of water at a time and work out before departure where in the day I will be able to refill.

But if refilling is unlikely, then be prepared to carry 2 litres, as that should last you the whole day. If you are planning to refill in streams and springs that you know will be flowing, then you can pack a purification system like a Lifestraw or water purification tablets.

Also include a few emergency extras… never underestimate the restorative power of a little packet of Haribo :. Hygiene — Toilet paper, and a zip lock bag to store used paper in, hand sanitiser or wet wipes. Insect Repellent — Depending on the time of year and location of the hike.

Both offer an SOS emergency feature, they allow you to contact emergency services via satellite even when there is no phone signal, but the Satellite Messenger also allows you to update tracking maps and send messages to loved ones.

You will mostly find me over on Instagram katiejaneendurance but you can also follow along over on Facebook and Pinterest. You must be logged in to post a comment. What to pack for a day hike? Hiking Essentials Kit list. April 30, Our expert guide includes a list of hiking gear and accessories that should make it into you pack.

Hiking kit lists vary depending on where you're walking, the time of year and the kind of terrain you expect to encounter. Regardless, there are a few hiking essentials that should make it into your pack wherever and whenever you plan to walk. Our list of reviewed hiking kit essentials is designed for walkers who plan to camp on the trail, so includes camping and cooking gear, as well as walking boots, poles and other hiking accessories.

For more hiking kit ideas and options for your multi-day treks, take a look at our review guides on the best walking trousers , best walking shoes , best walking boots , best lightweight jackets and eco-friendly kit. We've also rounded up our favourite Gore-Tex jackets , which are both waterproof and breathable.

From walking boots to the tastiest rehydrated meals, here is our expert guide to the best kit for multi-day hikes. Buy now from Sportsshoes £ The Gore-Tex Extended Comfort lining is also waterproof, and designed to allow your feet to breathe in warm weather.

Cushioning beneath the uppers is minimal — useful in warm weather, but less suited to freezing winter walks. The outsole has triangular lugs designed to perform in muddy conditions.

Ankle support is more modest than a mountaineering boot, but on summer hikes that helps you stay cool. Nevertheless if you plan to carry heavy weights over rough ground, you may want to consider something with a higher and more supportive ankle.

Head to our guide to the best walking boots and find a perfect fit. Super-lightweight waterproof overtrousers, which pack down small and are great for stuffing into a rucksack.

They provide good wind as well as water resistance and long side zips enable you to pull them on and off without removing your boots. They come a little small so be prepared to go up a size. See our full roundup of the best waterproof trousers for more options.

Sock liners are a great item for your multi-day hike pack, as they can help prevent blisters. Made of synthetic fabric that feels pleasantly cool, wear these Bridgedale sock liners under your walking socks for a dry and comfortable hike. Your choice of socks is one of the most crucial kit decisions for a long-distance walk.

For a multi-day hike, look out for heavily cushioned socks like these, to protect pressure points, and soften the impact of tens of thousands of daily steps.

Check out our roundup of the best walking socks. There's no delicate way of saying this: after a full day's walking, you may find that you feel tender in places you hadn't expected to.

Again, soft fabric that wicks moisture away from your skin is ideal. Merino wool underwear like this does just that, and stays remarkably fresh for day two on the trail. Even so, you might want to apply some petroleum jelly before you set off, to protect your skin from the effects of chafing.

There: I said it. In case you were wondering, while they are made of wool, I found that these boxers don't feel especially hot even in warm weather: the fabric is thin and breathable.

It also retains its shape well. Buy now from TrekkInn £ We found these hiking sunglasses to be lightweight yet both tough and grippy, and there's an optional adjustable cord to avoid the dreaded wobble.

We were also pleased with the comfortable fit. Browse our full roundup of the best hiking sunglasses for more options.

Versatile, lightweight and breathable, the tubular scarf can be used around the neck or head in a range of combinations. The fabric protects skin from harmful UV rays, and feels cool in the sunshine.

Perfect for climbers facing the rock, cyclists worn with a helmet, and sun-basking walkers. These light g per pole and easy-to-use aluminium poles cost a fraction of the price of many others on the market. Twist to adjust — a simple turn of the wrist locks each joint.

They retract to a conveniently short 64cm, tucking neatly tucked away when stowed on your harness. It's a shame the handles are not grippier: they are small, hard and a little too slippery for my taste. For more walking poles check out our list of the best walking poles.

A working mobile phone can be crucial on a multiday hike. This lithium polymer battery contains enough juice to charge an iPhone X twice mAh. On longer trips, keep it topped up using a solar panel attached to your backpack. You can also use it to top up a rechargeable torch or other device. The colour-conscious have a choice of four hues.

You can find more charging options in our roundup of the best power banks for camping. The Befree from Katadyn revolutionised my trekking experience. The filter cleans water quickly — and not having to carry so much water is a real blessing. Note that the filter removes biological impurities, but not chemical ones, so it's only safe to use in wilder places upstream of agricultural or industrial areas.

Nevertheless, with a little common sense, this is a useful addition to your pack. Available in ml, 1L and 3L versions.

Joe adds: The BeFree has won a bunch of stuff — Product of the Year at the UK Outdoor Industry Awards in , as well as an ISPO Gold Award - the outdoor industry's Oscar for new products. Read our list of the best hiking water bottles.

Used with caution, stoves like this are a safe way to cook your supper and there's nothing like a morale-boosting fire beneath the stars. Solo Stoves are designed to burn twigs efficiently. A handful of dry twigs or other organic matter produces a surprisingly hot flame.

The twigs burn fast, so you'll need to keep feeding the fire. The Solo Stove Lite weighs g; the pot set above g, but to offset this, you will be saving a little weight by not having to carry fuel.

Designed to fit all Solo Stoves, they pots are wobble-free even on my tiny Solo Stove Lite. These are compact, include a pot, burner and other features in one neat bundle, and weigh between g and g plus gas.