Hiking Essentials - 10 Must Have Essentials For Hiking

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We all know that food and water are some of the most important hiking essentials, right? BUT…What other items are important to bring on a hike? Even on a short hike, you want to bring safety items, extra food, and maybe some extra clothes.

Image of woods, waterfall, and steps on a hiking trail. We all know that food and water are some of the most important hiking essentials, right? BUT...What other items are important to bring on a hike? | Homestead Wishing, Author Kristi Wheeler | https://homesteadwishing.com/hiking-essentials/ | #hiking #hikinggear #hikinglist

Why? If you get hurt or lost on the trail, you’ll need some supplies to survive until you get help.

Hiking Essentials Short List

The short list, a little easier to remember off the top of your head. A more detailed list is below, with product suggestions!

Water
Good Shoes
Food
Navigation tools
Sanitation
First Aid
Safety Items
Backpack
Tent & other necessary supplies
Personal Items

Detailed Hiking Essentials List

Water – Of course you should always hike with plenty of water. An easy way to do this is grab a hiking bag that also includes a reservoir for water. It’s also smart to carry a Lifestraw.
Good Shoes & Clothes – Proper shoes are extra important. Your feet get you where you want to go, treat them nicely! Wear proper hiking clothes, ones that wick moisture away, keep your feet dry etc…
Food – Always pack extra food. Protein bars, nuts, jerky, dehydrated fruit, and veggies. For longer hikes also include items like rice, quinoa, oatmeal, pasta. (You’ll also need to pack a travel stove and pan like this)
Navigational Tools – Maps, compass, and GPS.
Sanitation – Biodegradable toilet paper (or wipes if you prefer), feminine products, and hand sanitizer. Also make sure to include some insect repellent.
First Aid – Before you set out to hike, check your first aid kit and make sure it’s stocked with all of the necessities.
Safety/Emergency Items – Lighter, fire starters, matches, mirror, whistle, flashlight, 2 itineraries (1 in your vehicle and 1 with a friend), mylar blanket, emergency shelter, knife/or even better a Swiss Army Knife, duct tape (wrap some around an old gift card instead of carrying the whole roll), paracord.
Backpack – Depending on the length of your hike you may need a small bag or a large bag. Choose wisely. Find something comfortable and don’t overpack!
Tent & other necessary supplies – If you plan on staying overnight, you’ll need a good tent, sleeping bag, etc…
Personal Items – Bring your cell phone, Identification, solar charger, and some cash.