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My Go-To Hiking Essentials
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items As a photographer and avid hiker, I’ve tested a lot of gear. From camera-friendly backpacks to hydration must-haves and smart little extras that make a big difference, this list has everything I genuinely use and love on my hikes.
I’m a photographer, so I always bring my camera on hikes—whether I use it or not, I know I’ll regret leaving it behind. My newest must-have is the Lowepro camera backpack—it’s not just a camera bag, it’s a legit hiking backpack. It holds all my camer...
Camera Bags & Backpacks For Any Device
This has seriously changed the game for me on long hikes. I still bring my Hydro Flask for that ice-cold water moment (because let’s be honest, nothing hits like cold water at the summit), but reaching for a bottle mid-hike is just not fun—especially...
Hydraulics™ 2 L Reservoir - Backpack Hydration
I’m obsessed with these, especially the watermelon flavor—it’s my go-to for hikes. I’ll add a packet straight into my hydration bladder, and it makes such a difference. Not only does it make the water taste way better, but it also gives you a boost o...
Shop All - Cure Hydration
Hands-down my favorite trail shoes—they’re just so good. They’re supportive, breathable, and have amazing grip, which makes a huge difference on rocky or uneven trails. I’ve worn them on everything from quick local hikes to all-day adventures, and th...
Men's & Women's Hiking -Tough Outdoor Footwear
I used to hike in regular socks and thought it was totally fine until I tried actual hiking socks out of curiosity… and wow, what a difference. They’re designed to reduce friction, wick away sweat, and add just the right amount of cushioning in all t...
Hiking Socks: Wool, Synthetic, Compression & Lightweight | REI Co-op
This is one of those things I didn’t realize I needed until I had it—and now I never hike without it. Whether I’m starting before sunrise, catching sunset at the summit, or just want backup lighting in my pack, this headlamp is clutch. It’s lightweig...
Headlamps
It’s a power bank that charges with the sun, which means I can keep my phone, camera batteries, or anything USB-powered going even when I’m off the grid. It’s compact, lightweight, and even has a built-in flashlight and compass. I love that I don’t h...
BLAVOR 10000mAh Solar Wireless Power Bank
It’s super lightweight, folds up small, and works as both a windbreaker and a waterproof layer, which makes it perfect for unpredictable conditions on the trail. Whether I’m hiking through early morning chill, sudden rain, or just want an extra layer...
Windbreaker Jackets
I always pack a G2G protein bar in my bag—they’re my favorite hiking snack. They taste like a treat (the peanut butter chocolate chip is so good), but they’re packed with real ingredients and enough protein to actually keep me going. I love that they...
Shop The Bars – G2G Protein Bar
If I know I’m hiking somewhere with a swim spot at the end or going camping, this towel always comes with me. It dries super fast, is super soft, and packs down into a little case that you can clip right onto the outside of your backpack. It barely w...
Camping Towel
I use it at home lighting candles or out on the trail making a campfire. It’s windproof, rechargeable via USB, and battery-powered (no butane or matches needed). I always toss it into my hiking pack when I know I’ll be camping—it’s compact, reliable,...
REIDEA Electronic Arc Candle Lighter USB
The Swiss Army knife is one of those classic essentials that I never hit the trail without. It’s super compact but packed with useful tools—scissors, a knife, tweezers, screwdrivers, and more. I’ve used it while hiking, camping, even opening snack ba...
Swiss Army Knives from Victorinox
It’s a classic for a reason—it keeps water ice cold for hours, even on the hottest hikes. I always bring mine with me because nothing beats that first cold sip at the summit or mid-trail. It’s super durable, comes in tons of fun colors, and fits perf...
Insulated & Stainless Steel Water Bottles
A must for any hike that involves water—whether it’s river crossings, swimming holes, or kayaking. I always bring mine on those kinds of adventures. It keeps my phone completely dry, floats if it falls in (yes, I’ve tested it 😅), and still lets me u...
Waterproof Floating Phone Pouches
Whether I’m trekking through brush, scrambling over rocks, or just enjoying a crisp morning hike, these have become my go-to for adventures. They’re lightweight yet durable, with stretchy fabric and articulated seams that move with you instead of res...
Hiking Pants: Backpacking, Trekking & Camping | REI Co-op
Long hours in the sun and wind can totally dry out your lips, and this little balm keeps them soft, protected, and feeling good the whole time. I love the tropical scents and it doesn’t melt into a mess in the heat. It’s lightweight, super hydrating,...
Cruelty Free & Vegan Products for Lip Care
The ThinkSport SPF 50+ sunscreen is my go-to for hikes, especially on long, sunny days. It’s a mineral-based formula with no harsh chemicals, so it’s safe for sensitive skin and doesn’t cause breakouts or irritation. I love that it’s water-resistant,...
Think Sunscreen | Non-nano Zinc Oxide Based | Reef Safe & Water Resistant
The REI hiking backpacks are honestly some of the best out there. If I’m not using my camera backpack, I’m wearing my REI pack—it’s just so comfortable and well-designed. The fit is perfect, the weight is balanced, and there are so many smart compart...
Hiking Backpacks: Outdoor Backpacks & Camping Bags | REI Co-op
One of my favorite hiking accessories as a photographer. If you hike with a camera like I do, this little gadget is a total game changer. You can clip it onto your backpack strap, the belt of your pants, or even your hip belt—and your camera stays se...
Capture Camera Clip | Peak Design Official Site
I always bring with me—whether I’m hiking, camping, or just want to feel fresh after a long day outdoors. They’re extra large, super soft, and made with aloe vera and vitamin E, so they’re gentle enough for your face but tough enough to wipe down you...
Trek & Travel Wilderness Wipes