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Beginner Hiking Gear Under $50
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items Getting into hiking doesn't have to mean spending hundreds of dollars on gear. This list focuses on useful hiking essentials and upgrades that are typically available for under $50. I've included practical options for hydration, safety, comfort and t...
Sections
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Under $15 Small Things Worth Carrying
$15–$30 Useful Beginner Gear
$30–$50 Gear Worth Spending a Little More On
Under $15 Small Things Worth Carrying
You don't have to spend much to add a few useful items to your hiking kit. These are simple, low-cost things that can help with comfort, basic preparedness and those little problems that have a way of showing up on the trail. Prices change, so double...
One of the easiest pieces of backup gear to add to a daypack. A whistle weighs almost nothing and can help you signal for attention without repeatedly yelling. Keep it attached somewhere you can reach quickly instead of buried inside your pack.
Slim Rescue Howler Whistle 2 Pack, SOL - The Supply Cache
Small, lightweight and easy to leave in your daypack until you need it. An emergency blanket can help reduce heat loss if you're unexpectedly delayed, injured or waiting for help. It's backup equipment, not a substitute for checking the weather and c...
Thermal Survival Emergency Blanket - SOL
A small item that can save you some misery if your feet are prone to hot spots and friction. Apply it to areas that tend to rub before starting your hike. It won't fix poorly fitting shoes, but it can be useful as part of a good blister-prevention ro...
Blister Prevention for Running, Hiking, Walking and ...
This isn't meant to replace a good rain jacket, but it's an inexpensive backup that takes up very little room in a daypack. It can be handy for an unexpected shower when you weren't planning on wet weather. For regular hiking in rainy conditions, inv...
Emergency Poncho
Blisters are a lot easier to deal with when you catch a hot spot early. A small blister kit takes up almost no room and is worth keeping with your first-aid supplies. Learn how to use the contents before your hike instead of waiting until your heel i...
Adventure Medical Kits Moleskin, Pre-Cut, 3
$15–$30 Useful Beginner Gear
This price range is where you'll find a lot of useful hiking gear without making a major investment. Focus on items you'll actually use regularly—things that help you carry water, take care of your feet, stay organized or handle an unexpected problem...
A simple water bottle is still one of the best places to start. The 32 oz. size is easy to carry, easy to refill and lets you see how much water you have left. Depending on your hike and the weather, one bottle may not be enough, so decide how much w...
32oz Wide Mouth Bottle
If you're deciding where to spend a little extra, good hiking socks are high on my list. These use merino wool to help manage moisture with light cushioning for additional comfort without a lot of bulk. Make sure the socks work with the fit of your h...
Men's Light Hiker Micro Crew Lightweight Hiking Socks
Another good merino-wool option for new hikers who want a dedicated trail sock instead of hiking in everyday cotton socks. The light cushioning gives you some protection underfoot while keeping the sock relatively low-bulk. Fit and comfort should dri...
Smartwool Men's Hike Light Cushion Crew
A headlamp is worth carrying even when you plan to finish your hike well before dark. Delays happen, and having hands-free light is much better than relying on your phone's flashlight. This is a straightforward beginner option without paying for feat...
PETZL TIKKINA Red Headlamp 300 Lumen
A small dry bag is handy for organizing things inside your daypack and giving an extra layer of protection to items you want to keep dry. It's not essential for your first hike, but it's an inexpensive upgrade that becomes increasingly useful as you ...
Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Bag 3-Piece Set
$30–$50 Gear Worth Spending a Little More On
Some gear is worth spending a little more on once you know you'll use it. These picks add more capability without jumping into premium outdoor-gear prices. Think about the hikes you're actually planning before buying—something isn't a bargain if it e...
A compact water filter starts making sense as your hikes get longer or take you farther from developed areas where dependable natural water sources are available. The Sawyer Squeeze is lightweight and easy to carry as part of a more capable hiking se...
Squeeze
A ready-made hiking first-aid kit is a practical upgrade once you're taking longer or more frequent hikes. It gives you a useful starting assortment without having to build a kit from scratch. Open it before your hike, learn what's inside and add any...
Mountain Series Hiker First Aid Kit
A step up from a basic backup headlamp if you expect to hike regularly. The Spot 400 gives you a more capable lighting option while still being compact enough to leave in your daypack. Whatever headlamp you carry, check its battery before leaving ins...
BLACK DIAMOND Spot 400 Headlamp, AAA Powered ...
A budget-friendly way to find out whether you actually like hiking with trekking poles before investing in an expensive pair. Poles can be useful on steep climbs, descents and uneven terrain, but they're optional for most beginners. Learn how to adju...
TREKKING POLES – Cascade Mountain Tech