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Hiking Gear "Must Haves" to Gear up for the Hike
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items To truly appreciate the mountains, waterfalls, and streams, you need the right gear for the hike. Ready to hit the trails? Here are some of my favorite hiking gear picks. From durable boots to comfy slippers for after the hike, to backpacks and other...
Sections
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The Gear to get you Hiking: Footwear & More
Gear You Need on the Trail
After the Hike Get Cozy and Comfortable
The Gear to get you Hiking: Footwear & More
If you're a hiker, you know the drill – you can't have just one type of hiking shoe. Gotta have options! But, I’ll admit, I’m that person with only one pair of high heels. Guess I’m not exactly ready to strut down a mountain in them!
Remember a good pair of hiking boots is the first step on a good hike!.
Timberland Euro Hiker Mid Bootie - Women's
Hiking boots and shoes are a must, sneakers won't do!
Women's Hiking Boots and Hiking Shoes | Timberland US
Hiking shoes are a great option besides the boots. Always check trail conditions and be prepared.
Women's Hiking Boots: Lightweight & Waterproof - REI Co-op
Chasing Waterfalls up in the mountains, you may want to consider a great pair of hiking and water sandals/shoes, because there will be streams to cross. (As an Amazon Associate, I earn commission from qualifying purchases.)
KEEN Women's Hyperport H2 Hiking Sandals
I absolutely love Bombas socks! Bombas offers wool-free hiking socks! Not only are they incredibly comfortable, but the best part is their One Purchased = One Donated program. Simply put, every time I buy a pair, a donation goes to a Giving Partner ...
Women's Hiking and Trekking Socks - Bombas
These have never let me down. They absorb impact while preventing blisters and irritation and keep my feet dry and cool.
Experia® Socks: Shop All Colors & Styles - Thorlo
I received a pair of Merino Compression Socks as a gift, and I highly recommend them. The advanced compression really helps with circulation and keeps my feet from swelling, even on longer trails. Plus, the Merino wool is perfect for temperature regu...
Women's Hiking Compression Socks | Merino Wool
Remember a good pair of hiking boots is the first step on a good hike and the socks come before the boot. When shopping for hiking socks, remember to consider factors like sock thickness, compression, and cushioning based on the type of hikes you'll...
FEIDEER Women's Hiking Crew Socks Multi-pack
I've found it hard to search for truly wool free socks, but there are options: Synthetic Fabrics, Bamboo, CoolMax, and Cotton (with caution.) These synthetic Coolmax® yarns are vegan and help feet beat the heat and stay dry while hiking.
Women's Coolmax® Hiker Micro Crew Midweight Hiking Sock
A good economical choice with great zippered pockets, UV protection, mosquito repellent and quick dry fabric. (As an Amazon Associate, I earn commission from qualifying purchases.)
BALEAF Women's Quick Dry Hiking Pants
If you're heading out for a hike in the mountains or higher altitudes, don't forget sunscreen! It might feel cooler as you gain elevation, but the sun can be even stronger up there, and the thin air means you're more prone to burns. My personal recom...
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer SPF 45 Sunscreen, 2 Pack
CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 is another fantastic option! It’s a great choice for hiking because it’s mineral-based, meaning it sits on top of your skin and reflects the sun’s rays, which is perfect for high-altitude exposure. It’s also frag...
Sun Bum is definitely worth checking out when you’re looking for something new, though. It’s a popular brand for active outdoor lifestyles, so it might be a good backup or alternative when you're out on your next adventure. But for now, CeraVe is a...
Sun Bum is definitely worth checking out when you’re looking for something new, though. It’s a popular brand for active outdoor lifestyles, so it might be a good backup or alternative when you're out on your next adventure. But for now, CeraVe is a...
CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50
This hat is perfect, especially if you wear your hair in a ponytail. The wide brim provides extra sun protection—much more than a typical baseball cap, which leaves your neck and ears exposed. Plus, the side mesh keeps you cool, and the side snaps le...
Mukeyo Women's Wide Brim UV Protection Hat
I love Kafka's Kool Tie for staying cool during hiking, gardening, or any hot outdoor activity—and even indoor workouts. Just soak the tie in water for 30-45 minutes, and it provides cooling relief that lasts for hours or even days. It’s the perfect ...
Kafka's Kool Tie | REI Co-op
These Microfiber 39"x11" Snap Cooling Towel are a great option for staying cool on the go. Whether you wear it as a scarf, headband, or bandana, it folds into a compact pouch for easy portability. Ideal for hiking, yoga, workouts, gardening, camping,...
4 Packs Cooling Towel, Microfiber, 40"x12"
Gear You Need on the Trail
Just a few suggestions to get you stated. Many are a good ides whether you hike or not.
AllTrails is a go-to for hiking the mountains of Western North Carolina, plus it’s perfect for hiking, biking, and outdoor adventures worldwide!
Western North Carolina Trails | List - AllTrails
Great advise and source for the day hiking gear you'll need!
Hiking Essentials Checklist: What to Bring on a Hike | REI Co-op
A must have and not just for hiking. Make sure you're prepared on any adventure, road trip or at home, the garage or workshop or a guestroom bath. (As an Amazon Associate, I earn commission from qualifying purchases.)
Protect Life First Aid Kit - 100pcs
This is a fantastic idea! The 151-piece Survival Gear Kit, complete with an approved First Aid Kit, is perfect for any emergency and makes for a great ‘Get Home Bag.’ I've upgraded some of my gear individually, but this kit is an affordable and pract...
151 Pcs Emergency Survival Kit & Gear
The best! I have several Swiss Army Knives, large, medium, and small (for my keychain.)
Swiss Army Knives from Victorinox
The Sawyer MINI Water Filtration System is a must-have for outdoor activities, travel, and emergency prepping. It’s lightweight and easy to use—drink straight from a water source with the included straw, attach it to the drinking pouch, or screw it o...
MINI | Sawyer Products
Upgrade your flashlight with this 3-in-1 device—hand warmer, flashlight, and USB power bank! I’ve used mine way more than I expected. It’s perfect for keeping charged and ready, especially before a storm or any outdoor adventures. Great for charging ...
Muddy 3-In-1 Rechargeable Hand Warmers - Walmart.com
Bill Jackson's is my favorite outfitter, but alas, they're in Pinellas Park, FL. If you’re in the area, check them out! I moved from South Florida to the mountains, so I always make a stop when I head back.
Our Store - Bill Jacksons
For the love of Hiking and Photography! (As an Amazon Associate, I earn commission from qualifying purchases.)
TARION Pro 2-in-1 Camera Backpack
A light weight, but sturdy camera tripod is a must have for capturing all the thrill of the hike, especially the waterfallls! (As an Amazon Associate, I earn commission from qualifying purchases.)
NEEWER 77" Tripod Monopod for DSLR/Phone
Zazzle offers a wide range of makes and styles of customizable phone cases, and the best part? You personalize it to make it truly yours! Please Note: As a Zazzle Creator and Ambassador, I may earn a commission from any Zazzle products purchased...
Gothic Raven Shades Gray and Black Customizable Otterbox iPhone Case
Your phone needs rugged protection when you hit the trails!
OtterBox | Phone Cases, Screen Protection and Power
Check out my new favorite water bottle, featuring a crow straight out of the urban jungle! Crows are clever, curious, and always up for an adventure, I can identify! So if you’re looking for a bottle that’s as ready for a mountain hike, city stroll o...
Urban Crow in Shades of Grey and Black Water Bottle
This Port Authority® "I'd Rather Be Chasing Waterfalls North Carolina" Backpack is perfect for everyday adventures, whether you're on campus, commuting through the city, or heading to work. While it's not designed for hiking, its durable design ensur...
Rather Be Chasing Waterfalls North Carolina Port Authority® Backpack
After the Hike Get Cozy and Comfortable
Okay, so if you’re like me and have ever said 'Go on ahead, I’ll catch up!' on a hike, this sweatshirt is for you. I can’t get enough of this ultra-comfy, embroidered sweatshirt—trust me, the maker wasn’t kidding when they warned it’s extra comfy whe...
Out of Breath Hiking Club vintage Sweatshirt, funny Embroidered Crewneck, Gift for hiker, gift for camper, for him for her, nature lover
"I'm sorry for what I said while we were hiking,"—this cute tee pretty much speaks for itself (and, let’s be honest, sometimes it speaks for me too!). Available in a variety of colors and styles—t-shirts, tanks, and sweatshirts—so you can rock it how...
Sorry for what I said while we were hiking funny T-Shirt
This "Take a Hike" T-shirt is another favorite of mine. OK, there’s definitely a pattern with my post-hike wardrobe. I’ll admit it—after a good hike, I love getting cozy and relaxing with a little me time.
Take a Hike Shirt, Womens Hiking TShirt, Wanderlust Shirt, Go Hiking Graphic Tee, Love Hiking, Hikers Shirt, Hikers Gift, Rather Be Hiking
Get really comfortable and cozy in the softest and warmest (well past your ankles) slippers. Kick back, relax and plan your next adventure. (As an Amazon Associate, I earn commission from qualifying purchases.)
Dearfoams Women's Fuzzy Memory Foam Bootie
Slip into comfort, after that long hike, in comfortable sturdy slippers and start planning your next adventure. Please Note: As an Amazon Associate, I earn commission from qualifying purchases.
KEEN Women's Howser 3 Slide Slippers
After a refreshing hike, wrap yourself in this cozy throw blanket and let the soothing colors of nature embrace you. As Emerson said, “Nature always wears the colors of the Spirit,” and this blanket’s vibrant design brings that spirit to life. It’s t...
Colors of the Spirit Emerson Quote Photographic Throw Blanket
I absolutely love the extra coziness of this fleece blanket, and the design is just stunning! The soft, muted teal and gray pattern really brings a peaceful, natural vibe to any space. Plus, if you prefer something even cozier, a Sherpa blanket of a ...
Boho Chic Teal and Gray Abstract Pattern Fleece Blanket