This list is packed with the hiking essentials we've personally used and trusted—whether for a day pack or an overnight backpacking trip in the woods.
Sections
6
Boots and Shoes
Hiking Accessories
Safety
Other
Packs
Clothing and Accessories
Boots and Shoes
What we wear when we hike.
A classic. We both own a pair of these. They're so comfy!
Danner Men's Mountain 600 Leaf Hiking Boot
We really needed these when we hiked the Figure-8 combo loop at Bryce Canyon NP in February.
Crampons Ice Cleats Traction Snow Grips
Both my husband and I own these and love them for hikes with water crossings or hikes in humid southeast.
Bedrock Sandals Cairn Evo Sandals | REI Co-op
Hiking Accessories
These are things we use for our day hikes and backpacking trips.
We used to think hiking poles were unnecessary, but they really help with hand swelling and stabilization during hikes.
Collapsible Nordic Hiking Poles
Taking a sufficient amount of water on a hike is a must. We love our Osprey packs.
Osprey Hikelite 26L Unisex Hiking Backpack, Black
Safety
Things we either use or have just in case to stay safe on the trail.
We keep these on hand in our gear go bag just in case.
Aquatabs Water Purification Tablets - Hiking & Emergency
We love all of these flavors.
LMNT Zero Sugar Electrolytes
Great in coffee!
LMNT Zero Sugar Hot Chocolate Mixer - 12ct
We like to keep these in the van and at home for hiking.
LMNT Zero Sugar Electrolytes Variety Pack
Other
Track hikes and trails, national parks visited and bucket list places to go.
Hiking Journal
Packs
We love these packs for their comfort and packability.
This is the second pack I have owned (the first was by another brand). This one is way more comfortable on my hips and shoulders. I have a small and the hubs has a medium.
ULA S Circuit | Backpacks
Clothing and Accessories
These things make our outdoor adventures complete and are things we actually own and/or use.
My husband found these at REI on the return rack for a deal so you can always try that. But he loves them!
Seirus 1172 Mens Lightweight Polartec Glove
My husband hasn't had to use these yet on a hike, but he is stocking up and has these ready to pack for overnight trips.
