Benable — create shareable lists of things you recommend!
E.g., products you love, local businesses, travel recs - you can add anything to a Benable list!
Beginner Day Hike Recommendations for Women 🥾
14
items These are my go-to picks when you're starting out with day hikes—affordable, practical, and tested for comfort and durability. I started with a minimal budget and built up from there with items that deliver value and last on the trail.
Sections
5
🎒 Bags
🧦 Socks
👕 Base Layers
Hiking Shoes
💧 Hydration
🎒 Bags
A good hiking bag makes all the difference, especially on beginner-friendly trails. I picked options that are lightweight, supportive, and affordable, with features that make carrying your essentials easy and comfortable.
The breathable back panel and built-in hydration sleeve make this perfect for beginner hikes. I love how it distributes weight well without feeling bulky.
Daylite Plus Backpack
Super lightweight but durable, this is great for short day hikes. I like how compact it is while still fitting my must-haves.
REI Co-op Flash 22 Pack
Simple, sleek, and comfortable to wear. I like the minimalist design that doesn't sacrifice functionality.
Nano 18 | Everyday Pack | Gregory
🧦 Socks
Blisters are the fastest way to ruin a good hike. I chose socks that are made of merino wool or moisture-wicking materials, which keep your feet dry, comfy, and supported.
I love how soft and breathable these are, plus they come with a lifetime guarantee! The fit stays snug even on longer hikes.
Women's Micro Crew Socks
These keep my feet dry and cushioned, even during humid hikes. They’re great for preventing hot spots and blisters.
Hike Crew Socks - Smartwool US
Affordable and reliable, they do a solid job at moisture management. They’re my go-to when I need backups.
REI Co-op Merino Wool Lightweight Hiking Crew Socks
👕 Base Layers
Base layers help regulate body temperature and wick sweat, keeping you dry and comfortable. I picked pieces that are budget-friendly, breathable, and perfect for layering in different seasons.
Lightweight, stretchy, and under $10, this has been my favorite affordable base layer. It keeps me dry without clinging too tightly.
Women's Cool Fitted T-Shirt
Soft and quick-drying, this top works well in both cool and mild weather. I like that it layers easily under a jacket.
Lightweight Base Layers | REI Co-op
This is my go-to for chilly morning hikes. It’s warm without bulk and very budget-friendly.
HEATTECH Ultra Warm Tights
Hiking Shoes
The right shoes make a big difference in preventing injury and fatigue. These are trail-friendly, comfortable, and provide good traction and support for beginner terrains.
These are my first “real” hiking shoes and they’ve held up beautifully. They’re waterproof and great for trails with rocky or uneven terrain.
Women - Moab 3 Waterproof - Shoes
Lightweight with great grip, perfect for dry and moderate trails. I like how they feel broken in right out of the box.
Find Your Pace - Outpulse
A great affordable option for beginner hikers. They’re supportive, durable, and look cute with hiking leggings.
Women's Newton Ridge™ Plus Waterproof Hiking Boot
💧 Hydration
Staying hydrated is key on any hike. I picked systems that are convenient to carry and easy to clean—perfect for short and beginner day hikes.
Simple, indestructible, and reliable. It’s my go-to for quick, local hikes when I don’t need a hydration bladder.
32oz Wide Mouth Sustain Water Bottle
Fits in most daypacks and makes sipping while hiking effortless. I like that it’s easy to clean and doesn’t leak.
Crux® 2L Reservoir