What are the best clothes to wear for hiking?

“I think of clothing in layers and try to choose lightweight and packable, whenever possible,” Gohn said. “If you have a comfort item that would easily improve the day, definitely bring it. My one must-have is a warm hat if temps are below 50; cold ears are my nemeses.” Start with a short-sleeved base layer and then add a mid-layer or vest (depending on conditions), and partner that with a high-quality rain shell. This system will let you remove and add layers as conditions change or as you start to heat up mid-hike. As for the lower half, a pair of lightweight hiking pants add a bit of extra coverage (nice protection against the sun and any trail hazards like poison ivy or oak), and aren’t as warm as a pair of jeans. The adage “cotton kills” can be over-stated if you’re on a short hike, but it’s undeniable that cotton wets out quickly, takes forever to dry, and — most troubling — won’t keep you warm when you get wet. Instead, go with either high-performance merino wool or less-expensive synthetic fabrics. Both will wick sweat to keep you dry and help regulate your internal temp. The same goes for hiking socks : A high-quality pair will last a long time, and provide the comfort and wicking support your feet need.

What are the most important things to bring hiking?

In addition to the clothes on your body, be sure you have a hiking backpack that can carry your water (either in a bottle or in a hydration reservoir), snacks, rain jacket, and any other extra layers called for by the weather. On sunny days, grab your sunglasses and sunblock. And a simple first-aid kit for common ailments like blisters and minor cuts and scrapes is always a solid idea. Beyond that, it depends on what additional comforts you may desire, or if you want to add a bit more weight for things like a multi-tool, water filter, or other accessories. “I usually travel light and only bring what will add to the day, rather than bring things just because,” said Gohn. “Sometimes I'll bring a monocular or my journal. Sometimes I'll bring my book if I'm not in a rush and know I'll find a nice spot to chill out. When I'm feeling it, my backpacking hammock hits the spot. While on trail, hiking poles not only prevent falls but improve my pace when I want to push and start sweating. Once they become an extension of your arm, they help you fall into that flow while you're gliding over terrain.”

How do you pack a hiking backpack?

Place heavier items at the bottom of the pack so that they ride low, and balance out the sides by using the exterior side pockets for your water bottles , or by sliding in your hydration reservoir (if you’re using one). Then add any extra layers, followed by any food or snacks you’re bringing. Using stuff sacks or dry sacks to separate out your kit also helps keep things organized — food in one, gloves and a hat in another, electronics in a third one, etc. Smaller internal pockets are great to secure things you don’t need mid-hike, like your car keys and wallet/ID, while outside secure pockets are great for smartphones. And try to pack your rain shell near the top, which makes it easy to find when the skies go dark.

The Best Hiking Gear of 2023

At its most basic, hiking is merely walking in nature, whether it be dense forestland, rugged alpine regions, or the desert. That simplicity affords a freedom of movement that’s tangibly present on even the most technical of trails. But the secret to finding the joy of hiking heavily depends on the gear you use. The right footwear can mean the difference between smooth navigation or enduring blisters, the right pack sits exactly where you want it and carries everything you need, and the right apparel moves with you, wicking away sweat to help regulate your fluctuating temperature, keeping you warm and dry in foul weather.

In selecting the ideal hiking gear, we chatted with avowed hiking enthusiast Toby Gohn, who has successfully thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail and whose love of the activity has carried over to his kids. We also put in the miles, testing the gear in a variety of weather conditions, trail types, and hike lengths, from a quick one-hour ramble through Rock Creek Park in Washington, DC, to overnight trips in national wildlife refuges. The result is this, a list of must-have hiking essentials broken out by footwear, apparel, and gear, along with loads of nice-to-have accessories destined to improve your next outing.

The Best Hiking Shoes

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Why We Love It: The Talus XT Low GTX provides breathable waterproof protection, ample grip on wet and uneven surfaces, and out-of-the-box comfort.

What to Consider: Some might find them a bit heavy at 2.3 pounds per pair.

Made from high-quality nubuck leather and outfitted with a breathable waterproof Gore-Tex membrane, the Vasque Talus XT Low GTX is ready for any sort of trail. Vibram MegaGrip at the outsole provides confident traction in slippy wet terrain, and the dual-density EVA footbed softens every footfall. Built to provide ample stability, it also boasts mesh panels on either side of the uppers to improve breathability without sacrificing protection. Unfortunately, Vasque doesn’t make a woman’s version, so consider the Talus AT Low Ultradry, which uses a proprietary breathable waterproof layer instead of Gore-Tex.

Price at time of publish: $196

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Why We Love It: If you like to go fast and light, the Lone Peak 7 will provide hours-long comfort, confident tracking, and ample cushion.

What to Consider: It’s not waterproof, so wear socks that keep you warm in wet conditions.

The Lone Peak trail runners from Altra have ranked as one of the most popular shoes worn by thru-hikers on the Appalachian Trail — and with good reason. They’re lightweight, provide solid grip, breathe well, and also come with the brand’s signature foot-shaped toe box, which lets the toes splay out in their natural position to both improve balance and fend off foot fatigue. The latest iteration, the Lone Peak 7, includes a seamless, stitch-less upper to shave off even more ounces, and an updated outsole adds stickiness. The neutral “zero drop” configuration includes a 25-millimeter stack height that provides bounce and rebound without over-engineering the midsole. They’re also available for women.

Price at time of publish: $150

Danner Mountain 600 Waterproof Hiking Boot

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Why We Love It: The classic aesthetic of the Mountain 600 hides the boot’s many tech features, including a sticky outsole, a waterproof/breathable barrier, and ample ankle support.

What to Consider: It's expensive, but the high-quality materials should last for years.

For casual day hikes on mellow terrain, hiking boots are overkill. But if you suffer from weak ankles or are hauling lots of gear across days of backcountry exploration, go with the Mountain 600 from Danner. It comes with gorgeous full-grain leather uppers outfitted with the brand’s waterproof/breathable barrier to keep things dry. Underfoot, you get a removable three-layer OrthoLite Footbed, which works in concert with a Vibram SPE midsole to enhance rebound, comfort, and support, while the Fuga Outsole (also crafted by Vibram) uses self-adapting lugs and a Megagrip compound for assured traction on even the slickest of trails. Also available for men.

Price at time of publish: $255

4.9

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Why We Love It: Ample toe protection defines the Newport sandals, which are ready for the wettest, hottest conditions.

What to Consider: The aesthetic is decidedly outdoor-oriented, and some may want a pair of sandals with more breathable uppers.

Open-toed sandals have their place — but one misstep and a stubbed toe later, most find that it’s not on a hiking trail. Keen’s Newport sandals, however, come with the brand’s signature toe-box rubber bumper to protect your feet from rocks and roots. The waterproof leather uppers let you navigate through streams with confidence thanks to a compression-molded EVA midsole for comfort and rebound and a metatomical footbed for arch support that cradles the natural contours of your feet. A secure lacing system avoids hot spots, while a multi-directional lug pattern in the streamlined outsole grips well. Also available for men.

Price at time of publish: $55

Best Hiking Apparel

Darn Tough Quarter Midweight Hiking Sock

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Why We Love It: Made of active-friendly merino wool, the Quarter Midweight Hiking Sock fits perfectly, wicks away sweat, breathes well, and will keep you comfortable in any weather.

What to Consider: The quarter-length is great for warm-weather hiking, but if you prefer boots over shoes, go for the full-length version.

Crafted from merino wool, a natural fabric that wicks sweat, breathes well, and keeps you warm if it gets wet, the Quarter Midweight Hiking sock from Darn Tough has it all, including the brand’s True Seamless Toe tech so that the toe seam is virtually undetected. An optimal fit from toe to just above the ankle means they won’t slip or bunch, fending off blisters, and reinforcements at the footbed and Achilles both amps the comfort and improves durability — the latter characteristic is so much a part of Darn Tough’s DNA that the socks come with an unconditionally guaranteed-for-life warranty. If they ever wear out, you can return ’em for another pair. Also available for men.

Price at time of publish: $21

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Why We Love It: The Zion Pants II are made of a stretchy recycled nylon with a DWR finish, solid abrasion resistance, a performance-focused fit, UPF 50+ protection, and a streamlined aesthetic.

What to Consider: Those who prefer looser-fitting pants may want something that’s not so form-fitting.

Available in both slim and standard fits, the Stretch Zion Pants II from Prana are an updated version of the already-loved original. These new pants are crafted from recycled nylon-bend stretch fabric designed to move with each footfall, with a webbing-adjustable waistband that removes the need for a belt (though they also have belt loops if you dig wearing one). The left zippered double-entry cargo pocket looks streamlined, providing added storage without bulk along with mesh-lined hand pockets and back pocket patches with a flap at the back right. Inseam gussets add a bit of ventilation, but the lightweight fabric breathes well and will shrug off light rain, and a snap roll-up feature at the hem lets you add a few extra inches of venting mid-hike or while bouldering. The Prana Stretch Zion Pants II aren’t available for women, but we recommend the similar Halle Pant II.

Price at time of publish: $95

SAXX Men's Quest Quick Dry Mesh Boxer Briefs

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Why We Love It: The Quest is specifically designed to avoid any sort of chafing, an essential feature in a pair of hiking underwear.

What to Consider: The brand’s signature Ballpark Pouch isn’t everyone’s cup of tea.

If you’ve ever been forced to endure chafing down there as you round out a long hike, you’ll do whatever you can to avoid it in the future. And Saxx’s Quest boxer briefs are the solution. Like all of the brand’s bottoms, they come with the Ballpark Pouch, which isolates everything down there to keep things in place and avoid any chance of rubbing. Four-way stretch assures that the underwear will move with you, and an anti-roll waistband works with nonchafing flat outseams to provide an assured, comfortable fit. The synthetic fabric wicks sweat to help regulate moisture, and odor control keeps things fresh.

Price at time of publish: $34

Patagonia

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Why We Love It: The Active Briefs and Active Mesh Bra work together to wick away sweat, stay in place, and provide the comfort you want in underwear.

What to Consider: Sizing isn’t very inclusive.

For a pair of underwear that won’t creep or chafe, go with the Active Briefs from Patagonia, which use a moisture-wicking synthetic blend and a breathable wicking crotch construction to help regulate your internal temperature. The soft fabric and a seamless waistband avoid chafing, and a bit of spandex provides the right touch of stretch. Pair them with the Active Mesh Bra, a mix of polyester and spandex for solid wicking and breathability, seamless construction for an assured fit, and a straight neckline with wide, reinforced straps that meet V-style in the back for light support. Both also come with the brand’s HeiQ Pure odor control.

Price at time of publish: $26

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Why We Love It: The Merino Short-sleeve Tee fits slim to allow for easy layering, wicks away sweat, and helps regulate your core temp regardless of the weather.

What to Consider: Merino wool is more expensive than synthetics, and it dries slower.

All-natural merino wool truly is a miracle active fabric. It’s soft against the skin, naturally wicks away sweat, keeps you cool when things are hot and warm when you get cold — even if the material wets out — and never retains body odors. The only downside? It’s not as durable as some synthetic fabrics. Smartwool’s Merino Short-sleeve Tee solves this by using its Core Spun tech, which wraps the merino around a nylon core to make it stronger without sacrificing any performance. The slim-fitting shirt allows for easy layering, with flatlock seams to minimize chafing and a reinforced collar to keep it from stretching out. Also available for women.

Price at time of publish: $47

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Why We Love It: The fabric is lightweight and fit is slim to cut down on bulk, but you still get a touch of extra breathable warmth.

What to Consider: It only comes in two solid colors, and it’s not built to add a lot of extra insulation.

Made of mostly polyester with 16 percent elastane for stretch, the Abisko Trekking Shirt from Fjällräven is a lightweight solution to add a bit of warmth and extra protection without adding bulk. The tech fabric wicks away sweat while letting in cool air, with generous vertical chest pockets that also provide ample venting. If you’re prone to sunburns, pop up the collar and secure it in place, and the material will cover the entire back of your neck. Ladies, go with the equally trail-ready Stretch Shirt.

Price at time of publish: $110

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Why We Love It: The Motus AR works as a base layer or mid-layer, with breathable wicking properties and a fitted hood that doesn’t add bulk.

What to Consider: The hood has no adjustments.

Your favorite bulky cotton hoodie certainly wins points for delivering cozy comfort, but leave it at home (or at the trailhead). Instead, opt for the Arc’teryx Motus AR, a slim-fitting hoodie that’s designed to handle high-energy activity in cooler weather. The polyester breathes well to help regulate your core temperature, and it dries quickly. Engineered for freedom of movement, the streamlined hood adds a bit of extra insulation, and while the brand markets it as a base layer, it’s roomy enough to accommodate a T-shirt underneath. Also available for men.

Price at time of publish: $100

Ibex

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Why We Love It: Merino wool insulation packs in the heat while a weather-resistant outer shell helps fend off foul weather in the Wool Aire Vest, and it has a fit that supports layering.

What to Consider: Unless you go with black, the men's color options are pretty bold and retro.

Hikers love vests because they keep your core warm while freeing up your arms and avoiding unnecessary bulk (especially when layering). And most would be satisfied by the Ibex Wool Aire Vest. Warmth comes from 80-gram proprietary fill made from merino wool that’s been sandwiched between layers of 20-D weather-resistant face fabric. The high collar helps turtle in the heat, and an elasticized hem moves with you. You also get two zippered hand-warmer pockets and a zippered chest pocket for added storage. Also available for men.

Price at time of publish: $235

Black Diamond Stormline Stretch Rain Shell

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Why We Love It: Ready for whatever foul weather might be coming, the Stormline Stretch Rain Shell provides an aerodynamic fit to not interfere with your movements, along with ample stretch for full coverage

What to Consider: The helmet-compatible hood isn’t adjustable.

Even if rain is a distant possibility, packing a rain shell is still a good idea — weather truly is unpredictable, but even if the sky stays clear, a solid shell can provide warmth and wind protection. Witness the Stormline Stretch Rain Shell from Black Diamond. Built with the brand’s BD.dry, it provides wind and waterproof protection without sacrificing breathability and has two generous DWR-sealed pit zip vents that help you dump internal heat. The slim fit works well with layering and is configured to not interfere with backpack straps, but the stretch assures that you’ll have coverage and full freedom of movement. Adjustability at the hem and cuffs help dial a perfect fit, and the collar zips high to offer added protection. Also available for women.

Price at time of publish: $170

Best Hiking Gear

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Why We Love It: Svelte in design, the Aerios 15 sits confidently on your back, and it comes with loads of pockets for smart organization.

What to Consider: It’s a bit expensive for a daypack.

Weighing in at only 20 ounces, Arc’teryx’s Aerios 15 Backpack provides a lightweight solution for fast day hiking. Its streamlined profile allows for total freedom of movement and the back panel comes with a breathable AeroForm padding and a removable framesheet that provides comfort mid-hike and structure to the bag itself. But it really excels at organization, including two zippered pockets integrated into the shoulder straps, a front top pocket, side-access zippered pockets, and an internal security pocket with a key clip. And a bungee cord system overlaying the back of the pack lets you quickly stash layers when you start to heat up. When hauling heavier loads, attach the removable waist belt and adjust the sternum strap. It also has two attachment points for trekking poles, works with hydration reservoirs, and is constructed of a mix of durable 100D and 210D Cordura nylon. Also available for men.

Price at time of publish: $130

Moosejaw

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Why We Love It: The Volt 45 offers loads of storage in a simple design that’s built to move comfortably with a few accessory straps and zippered pockets, but it’s not over-engineered, focusing on only giving what you need in a weekender pack.

What to Consider: Stretchy side pockets accommodate water bottles, but there’s not a kangaroo-style pouch on the bag.

Anchored by Osprey’s AirScape adjustable suspension system, the Volt 45 (and the women’s Viva 45 model) provides ample storage and an even fit for days-long comfort. The panel-load configuration includes enough space for a weekend outing, with an internal hydration sleeve, zippered hipbelt pockets, and a lid that floats to accommodate larger loads. Compression straps help secure everything, and the dual external loops can be used to carry ice axes or trekking poles. And if the weather turns foul, you can pull over the included rain cover to keep things dry.

Price at time of publish: $190

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Why We Love It: Simple to adjust, the Trail Cork Trekking Poles are ready for any sort of trail condition, and they can be easily stashed when not needed.

What to Consider: The included trekking and snow baskets are great, but if you hike on harder surfaces, you’ll want to buy the Rubber Tech Tips.

Skeptics of trekking poles will be won over with the Trail Cork Trekking Poles from Black Diamond. As with all poles, they improve your balance and traction, work to create greater hiking rhythm, reduce pressure on your knees during descents, and also help you test out water/mud depths. But unlike fixed poles, the poles’ FlickLocks let you quickly, easily adjust the pole lengths to match the conditions or to collapse them and strap ’em to your pack when rock scrambling. The 100 percent natural cork grip feels fantastic in your palms, and the aluminum shafts keep things light. The poles come with both trekking and snow baskets to accommodate hiking in all conditions, and you can also swap in the brand’s Rubber Tech Tips (sold separately) for when you choose to navigate harder surfaces. Also available for women.

Price at time of publish: $130

Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight Watertight .3 Medical Kit

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Why We Love It: The Ultralight/Watertight .3 Medical Kit gives you everything you need to brave the trails without overdoing your load.

What to Consider: It covers all the basics, but if you end up using a few wipes or bandages mid-hike, you may need to restock before your next outing.

File the Adventure Medical Kits’ Ultralight/Watertight .3 Medical Kit under things you should always bring and hope to never use. It includes all the essentials for a day or overnight hike, including die-cut moleskin for blisters, forceps designed to remove ticks or splinters, After Bite wipes, antibiotic ointment, medical tape, a variety of bandages, and meds for inflammation, pain, and common allergies. The whole kit only weighs 2.6 ounces and comes in a DryFlex waterproof bag.

Price at time of publish: $18

4.8

LEATHERMAN Skeletool Lightweight Multitool with Combo Knife and Bottle Opener

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Why We Love It: Outfitted with tools to address most common trail needs, the Skeletool is a streamlined multi-tool that won’t weigh you down.

What to Consider: Tweezers would be nice to have.

Most multi-tools are essentially an entire toolbox in one device — and most of those tools aren’t needed on a hike. Instead, go with the Skeletool from Leatherman, which integrates seven of the more commonly used tools into its minimalist design. This includes a locking knife, pliers with a wire cutter, needle-nose pliers, a large bit driver, and a carabiner/bottle opener that lets you attach the tool to your pack. It only weighs 5 ounces, and the stainless steel construction means it’ll work for a lifetime.

Price at time of publish: $55

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Why We Love It: Lightweight, easy to use, and able to provide ample illumination, the Cosmo can deliver up to 350 lumens of light, and it includes a variety of different settings like red LED night vision.

What to Consider: The battery life is sufficient for a few days of use, but expedition-focused hikers may want a headlamp with portable batteries as a backup.

Even on day hikes, it’s always smart to carry a light source, and the Black Diamond Cosmo 350-R Headlamp will provide you hands-free illumination, but, at only 2.6 ounces, it won’t weigh you down. It produces 350 lumens of light when set to high mode (one of three settings) and also includes dim modes, strobe, and red LED night vision. You can lock the light so it doesn’t accidentally turn on in your pack, and it’s been waterproof tested to withstand full submersion in a meter of water for up to 30 minutes. You charge the light via micro-USB, and a battery meter displays the percentage of power that remains. The lightweight device sits on an adjustable, recycled strap, and can be tilted to the optimal angle.

Price at time of publish: $35

Hydro Flask Lightweight Wide Mouth Trail Series Water Bottle

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Why We Love It: The 32-ounce Lightweight Wide Mouth Trail Series bottle will keep water cold for up to 24 hours and hot beverages warm for 12.

What to Consider: Some ultralight hikers may still scoff at its weight.

Most hikers find a bit of joy and satisfaction while sipping ice-cold water on a hot hike. But to appreciate that refreshing hydration, you typically have to carry an insulated water bottle, which is always heavier than plastic. Hydro Flask’s 32-ounce Lightweight Wide-mouth Trail Series bottle solves…part of this problem. The durable bottle is 25 percent lighter than regular bottles and comes with a TempShield double-wall vacuum insulation that keeps drinks cold for up to 24 hours and hot beverages warm for 12. Stainless steel assures that you won’t have any taste transfer (another downside with plastic bottles), and the flexible strap at the lid is easy to open and close and can be clipped onto a carabiner. At 12.16 ounces, it still weighs more than its plastic counterparts, but for many, that’s a worthy tradeoff.

Price at time of publish: $60

Osprey 1.5-Liter Hydraulics LT Reservoir

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Why We Love It: For quick hydration mid-stride, the 1.5-liter Hydraulics LT Reservoir makes it easy to get a drink without worrying about leaks, and it’s refreshingly easy to fill and clean.

What to Consider: The 1.5-liter volume should be plenty for day hikes, but Osprey also makes 3-liter volumes if you’re going into the backcountry without a lot of water sources.

Rather than stopping to fish out your water bottle, go with the Osprey 1.5-Liter Hydraulics LT Reservoir, which allows you to drink as you hike — a quarter twist on the bite valve and you’re set. It employs twin baffles to stabilize water flow, and a magnet has been integrated into the bite valve, which attaches to the included sternum strap so the tube won’t be flapping around. A pour shield makes it easy to fill from a shallow sink, and the wide opening (which seals watertight via a slider) and QuickConnect system — detachments at the base as well as mid-way up the tube — make it easy to clean and refill in the field. It’s also designed to work with any backpack that’s reservoir-compatible.

Price at time of publish: $24

Best Hiking Accessories

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Why We Love It: Rather than overdoing it and adding weight, the Charge 20 PD provides the right degree of extra power to keep your smartphone and other devices alive.

What to Consider: If you want more power (either because of longer expeditions or because you’re charging a lot of devices) go with BioLite’s 40 or 80 PD chargers instead.

Unless you’re going deep into the backcountry, most day hikes don’t require a portable charger with a huge capacity. Instead, cut down on weight by using the BioLite Charge 20 PD, which provides charging capacity for 1.5 smartphones via two USB ports. The charger is fully juiced in two hours, and a LED battery life indicator, triggered by a small button on the device, lets you know how much power is left. It weighs only 5.8 ounces, and its slim profile makes it easy to pack.

Price at time of publish: $40

Garmin

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Why We Love It: The inReach Mini provides a simple, easy-to-use way to communicate with both loved ones and emergency response experts, even when you’re off the grid.

What to Consider: You need to subscribe to a satellite service to use all the features.

The Garmin inReach Mini is less a navigation tool and more focused on communication, providing an easy way to let loved ones know where you are (and that you’re safe or need assistance). It supports two-way text messaging, location sharing, and interactive SOS alerts, which communicate with a 24/7 staffed professional emergency response coordination center (satellite subscription required). It runs on a global iridium satellite network, so it can send and receive messages when you’re out of cell range, and you can also get detailed weather updates, as well as forecasts for both your current location and future waypoints on your route.

Price at time of publish: $325

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Why We Love It: With total protection from the bright sun, 100 percent UV protection, and a variety of different color lenses and lens tech options, the Guide’s Choice is one of the best picks for active sunglasses.

What to Consider: Only one frame shape is available.

Think of Smith’s Guide’s Choice sunglasses as the perfect armor to protect you from the glaring sun. Extra-wide temples and an aggressive wrap design block out peripheral bleed, but the Italian spring hinges flex with your head, so they stay comfortable. And they also stay in place even when you start to sweat, thanks to nose and temple pads. Choose from either polarized Techlite or ChromaPop lenses, the latter of which cuts glare and enhances contrast and natural colors to make it easier to navigate tricky trails. Both provide 100 percent UV protection, and the array of lens color options lets you find a pair that suits your typical hiking terrain: dark for trails with lots of exposure, or a lighter color (yellow or blue) for shaded routes.

Price at time of publish: $269

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Why We Love It: In addition to the see-through window in the View Dry Sacks, they also keep your gear dry and organized in your pack.

What to Consider: The bag itself is waterproof, but try to avoid prolonged submersion because water can seep through the roll-top closure.

Yes, most hiking backpacks are fairly waterproof, but if you haul electronics or a journal, a dry bag is a failsafe way to keep things from getting wet. Ranging in sizes from 1 liter up to 35 liters, Sea to Summit’s View Dry Sacks come with a TPU window that lets you see inside, partnering with lightweight, durable 70D nylon fabric and a white interior lining. To secure the pack, roll the excess top section together, then secure it with the clip; a D-ring attachment point lets you clip it to a carabiner. But even if there’s no threat of rain, these bags are also an excellent way to organize your gear without adding much weight or bulk. Put your perishable snacks in one bag and your valuables in another, and suddenly finding what you need becomes easy.

Price at time of publish: $18 (4-liter)

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Why We Love It: The TrailShot Pocket-sized Water Filter won’t take up much space in your pack and is designed to allow you to drink water directly from the source or to quickly filter water into your bottle or reservoir.

What to Consider: It's a touch expensive.

Day hikers who don’t want to deal with the bulk of a stand-alone water filter (or the time to use a gravity-fed system) should go with the TrailShot Pocket-sized Water Filter from MSR. This 5-ounce filter is designed to let you drink directly from the water source or filter water directly into your water bottle, processing a liter in about 60 seconds. The one-hand pump is a breeze to use, and it meets the EPA drinking water standards as well as the NSF protocol P231 to remove bacteria, protozoa, and particulates.

Price at time of publish: $57

Raw Elements SPF 30 Sunscreen Face Stick

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Why We Love It: Easy to apply, the Raw Elements Face Stick won’t gloop, irritate, or wash off, and it goes on clean.

What to Consider: If you need more coverage on hotter days (legs and arms) you may need to supplement this with a lotion (just be sure you put it in a bag so it doesn’t accidentally get all over the inside of your pack).

The Raw Elements SPF 30 Sunscreen Face Stick will assure that one of the key potential pitfalls of hauling sunblock won’t happen — since it’s a stick, it’ll never burst open in your pack and leave you with a sticky mess. The SPF-30 stick rolls on clean and clear and is easy to apply to your nose, cheeks, forehead, and the back of your neck. Made from all-natural ingredients, it also has active antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and extracts, and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.

Price at time of publish: $14

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Why We Love It: Simple in design and versatile in application, the CoolNet UV Neckwear protects you from the sun, wicks away sweat, and provides a quick way to cool off.

What to Consider: You may want a heavier gaiter on colder days.

The Buff CoolNet UV Neckwear demonstrates how versatile a neck gaiter can be. Made of CoolNet UV fabric, it’s designed to provide UPF 50 protection for your neck, and wicks away sweat to keep you cool — or soak it in a river and wear it against your skin to quickly cool off and stay cool. A lack of seams means no skin irritation, and you can wear it in so many different ways, from pulling it over your head and chin for added protection to letting it sit low on your neck.

Price at time of publish: $23

Tips for Buying Hiking Gear

Prioritize comfort and mobility

Even a mellow hike requires movement, so you want gear that provides mobility and comfort. In apparel, look for clothes that come with a bit of stretch and that feel good against your skin like soft merino wool or a synthetic. Also look for off-set seams at the shoulders so you don’t have to deal with chafing. Layering — wearing a base layer, mid-layer, and an outer layer — also helps you dial the optimal comfort as conditions change. Your footwear should fit snug but not over-tight, with no movement at the heel to avoid blisters. And your pack should sit evenly on your shoulders and hips to distribute the weight of its contents — most hiking-specific packs now come with customizable suspension systems to help dial the fit.

Don't underestimate safety needs

“Most day hikes don't require a ton of trail food,” Gohn advised. “But a piece of fresh fruit, maybe a protein bar, and a handful of nuts takes care of any hunger pangs.” Longer hikes may necessitate some added sustenance, but it’s always good to keep the snacks light and high in protein so you don’t feel bloated.

“It's a general room of thumb, but I like to have half a liter of water per hour I plan to hike,” Gohn said. “If I know there will be water sources, I can stay light and just bring my filter while chugging some water at the trailhead from the water I keep in my car.” Also, keep in mind that hotter days may require more water.

“Having proper driving and hiking directions is clearly a must,” Gohn said. “I'm old school and prefer printed topos and notes, while others are handier with a GPS. Either way, I have them ready the night before. I don't want to get busy before heading out and cut corners or guess on my route before I jump in the car. Having a clearly set plan ensures you can simply enjoy the day and not worry if you're on the right route.”

“Whether you're doing a solo or hiking with friends, always leave someone a note where you're headed,” advised Gohn. “Even an email with the name of the place and your parking lot/trailhead should do it. In fact, when I know I'm going to be out of cell range, I bring my Garmin inReach Mini, just in case. It takes no space and is a life line, which makes my family feel better when I'm in the woods alone.” Conversely, you could buy a tracker like the Apple AirTag and sync it up with the phone of a friend or family member so they can know where you are at all times.

It’s also a smart idea to pack a medical kit, either one you DIY or pre-packed ones. Cover the basic materials you need to handle blisters, bug bites, poison ivy, and minor cuts, as well as any medication that you might need such as over-the-counter pain meds and anti-inflammatories.

Consider weather and expected lengths of your hikes

“The weather and hike location is the one that requires the most focus before I head out,” said Gohn. “What time of year is it? Am I hiking in the morning when it's chilly, or midday when the sun is high? Will I be exposed to heavy wind or blazing sun?” Then dress accordingly, though it’s always a good idea to pack your rain shell regardless of the forecast as the jacket can also work to block wind.

The length that you hike will influence how much water and food you need to bring and will also naturally influence how long you’ll be hiking. It’s best to know when the sun will set so that you’re back to the trailhead in time.

Think of certain products as an investment

Day hiking has a pretty low-cost entry compared to other outdoor sports, especially if you focus on hiking on free public trails. But it pays to invest in a few key areas because you’ll get a product that’ll work well on the trail and will last for years. It’s always wise to get a hiking-specific backpack because it’ll boast more suspension, adjustability, and things like hip and sternum straps that translate into hours of comfort, and often accommodate hydration reservoirs. Hiking shoes are also a place to not skimp because nothing ruins a hike faster than subpar footing or blisters. And a solid rain jacket, one that breathes well while keeping you dry, is essential.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best clothes to wear for hiking?

“I think of clothing in layers and try to choose lightweight and packable, whenever possible,” Gohn said. “If you have a comfort item that would easily improve the day, definitely bring it. My one must-have is a warm hat if temps are below 50; cold ears are my nemeses.”

Start with a short-sleeved base layer and then add a mid-layer or vest (depending on conditions), and partner that with a high-quality rain shell. This system will let you remove and add layers as conditions change or as you start to heat up mid-hike. As for the lower half, a pair of lightweight hiking pants add a bit of extra coverage (nice protection against the sun and any trail hazards like poison ivy or oak), and aren’t as warm as a pair of jeans.

The adage “cotton kills” can be over-stated if you’re on a short hike, but it’s undeniable that cotton wets out quickly, takes forever to dry, and — most troubling — won’t keep you warm when you get wet. Instead, go with either high-performance merino wool or less-expensive synthetic fabrics. Both will wick sweat to keep you dry and help regulate your internal temp. The same goes for hiking socks: A high-quality pair will last a long time, and provide the comfort and wicking support your feet need.
What are the most important things to bring hiking?

In addition to the clothes on your body, be sure you have a hiking backpack that can carry your water (either in a bottle or in a hydration reservoir), snacks, rain jacket, and any other extra layers called for by the weather. On sunny days, grab your sunglasses and sunblock. And a simple first-aid kit for common ailments like blisters and minor cuts and scrapes is always a solid idea. Beyond that, it depends on what additional comforts you may desire, or if you want to add a bit more weight for things like a multi-tool, water filter, or other accessories.

“I usually travel light and only bring what will add to the day, rather than bring things just because,” said Gohn. “Sometimes I'll bring a monocular or my journal. Sometimes I'll bring my book if I'm not in a rush and know I'll find a nice spot to chill out. When I'm feeling it, my backpacking hammock hits the spot. While on trail, hiking poles not only prevent falls but improve my pace when I want to push and start sweating. Once they become an extension of your arm, they help you fall into that flow while you're gliding over terrain.”
How do you pack a hiking backpack?

Place heavier items at the bottom of the pack so that they ride low, and balance out the sides by using the exterior side pockets for your water bottles, or by sliding in your hydration reservoir (if you’re using one). Then add any extra layers, followed by any food or snacks you’re bringing. Using stuff sacks or dry sacks to separate out your kit also helps keep things organized — food in one, gloves and a hat in another, electronics in a third one, etc. Smaller internal pockets are great to secure things you don’t need mid-hike, like your car keys and wallet/ID, while outside secure pockets are great for smartphones. And try to pack your rain shell near the top, which makes it easy to find when the skies go dark.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Nathan Borchelt is a life-long hiker and has had the good fortune to have backpacked and trekked throughout the world, including Europe, Australia, Asia, and South and Central America, in addition to all over the United States. Many of these picks are updates to products he’s trail-tested for years, and he’s also been rating and reviewing outdoor and travel products for decades. He also consulted Toby Gohn, an accomplished thru-hiker and weekend warrior who’s gotten his whole family in on his outdoor obsessions.

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