A lot of us consider hiking to be a timeless hobby that allows us to escape our nine-to-fives and reconnect with the outside world. It’s not uncommon for hiking to form the basis of many of our weekend getaways, but even so, it can be tricky to decide what you’ll need to pack. Here’s a small list you can use to prepare for a perfect hiking getaway.
Trekking bag
Your storage is naturally always the first thing you’ll need to consider, and we personally recommend investing in a duffle bag specifically built for trekkers. The reason for this is simply that trekking duffle bags are more multifunctional than traditional duffle bags as it is. You can carry them like shoulder bags or wear them like backpacks, meaning they’re incredibly versatile when it comes to international hiking. Also, it can be tricky finding a bag that’s big enough to carry all your supplies, but not too big that you’ll be lugging excess weight on your back. Trekking bags like these hybrid duffle bags are a perfect alternative to backpacking backpacks, because they’re built for hikers, not minimalist travellers. Unlike backpacking backpacks that prioritise the overall depth of a main compartment, it’s not uncommon for trekker duffle bags to have many small compartments and flexible storage options for all your supplies!
Proper clothing
This includes dedicated hiking boots, preferably mid-cut for higher ankle support as well as ensuring that your feet stay nice and dry in wetter conditions. Alongside this, if you’re hiking in a hot climate, it’s recommended you bring loose, breathable clothing as well as some sunnies and a hat for sun protection. If you’ll be finding yourself in a cooler climate it’s recommended that you bring a long-sleeved shirt (for warmth as well as potential sun protection), an extra pair of socks, a beanie and/or a scarf, as well as a weatherproof jacket and weatherproof pants. Regardless of whether you’re expecting hot or chilly weather, it’s also worthwhile checking the forecast ahead of your trip, just so you know there won’t be any dangerous, bad weather like lightning storms or a high chance of bushfires.
Food and water
It’s always recommended that you bring food that are nutrient-rich and mostly non-perishable, like the quintessential muesli bars and trail mix. Ziplock bags are also pretty handy if you’re carrying perishables like fresh fruits and veggies like carrot sticks. If you’re hiking for multiple days, small canned goods like beans, lentils, and canned meats, can be pretty handy and easy to carry without fear of leakages. As for water, it’s always recommended to keep plenty on hand. Hiking can be an intensely active hobby at times, and it’s always vital you stay hydrated. You should have at least one to two litres on hand for each hiker. Consider carrying two one-litre bottles on either side of your bag, as well as potentially packing some water purification tablets to ensure you can always source clean drinking water.
Sunscreen, insect repellant, first aid, toiletries
It goes without saying that these are your bare necessities for any trip, and you should always leave a little space in your bag to store them. It’s a good rule of thumb to store your sunscreen and insect repellant together in a ziplock bag, just in case there are any spillages. Feel free to also pack your basic first aid kit and toiletries together to save on space. Also if you are more of a city person, you should pick the best portable camping toilet and avoid all the unpleasant situations in the wild.
Hopefully you can utilise this list to prepare for your next hiking getaway, which should be soon! Hiking is just good for the soul. It’s one of the few physical activities that possesses an immediate and tangible reward: the majestic view from atop a glorious mountain! Funnily enough, I can’t decide on whether it’s the view or the journey that drives me more, and I don’t believe I’m alone on that one.