Not sure what to bring on your next hike? We’ve got you covered! Here, you’ll find an essential gear list for your next hiking trail. Whether you’re hiking a day-hike, hut-to-hut hike, long-distance trail, or even thru-hike, you don’t need to take that much with you. The less you have to carry every day, the better and easier the trail becomes. Of course, you should always pack the necessary items and you will need to add items that are important for the specific trail you choose.
Always bring a few items that are not essential but make hiking more enjoyable for you. Consider luxuries not only for during the hike but also, for example, for the long evenings in the mountain hut or tent. Think of an e-reader, journal, earbuds for music, a book with unsolvable Sudoku puzzles, or something else. It’s up to you! The essential gear list is made for every hiker, whether you’re hiking for months or just a day.
Best store for your outdoor gear
Find all the outdoor gear for your next hiking trail. Wheter it's a long-distance trail, day-hike or thru-hike, always bring your essentials.
You’ll find the full gear list if you scroll down a bit more. We’ve outlined 9 items that are the most important. If you click on the links you’ll be redirected to the brands we recommend and to trusted outdoor gear shops where you can buy these items.
Most important essentials
These are the absolute must-have essentials for your next hiking trail. It’s not much, but they are most definitely necessary. Choose always to invest in the right quality gear when you have the possibility. It’s more sustainable and keeps you safe on your trails.
Hiking shoes
Backpack
Rainwear
Water bottle
First aid kit
Hiking poles
Power bank
Clothing: layers
Socks
Top brands for your essentials
Hiking shoes
The foundation of any hike. They provide comfort, grip, and protection against rugged terrains, ensuring safety and endurance.
Clothing: layers: T-shirt, fleece jacket, down jacket, shorts, long pants, base layers (an underlayer, for example, of merino wool), underwear, and hiking socks
Rainwear: (hardshell) jacket and pants
Quick-drying towel
Hiking poles
Water bottle or hydration bladder
Cap, sunglasses, and sunscreen
Power bank
Water (at least 1.5 liters) and energy-rich food (nuts, chocolate, energy bars, muesli balls, wraps)
First aid kit with emergency blanket
Roll of small garbage bags
Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, etc.
For navigation
GPS watch
Map of the area
Navigation app on your mobile such as Komoot or Outdooractive
For camping
Lightweight tent with footprint (groundsheet)
Sleeping bag
Sleeping pad
Inflatable pillow
Cooking gear (stove, pan, spork, lighter)
Freeze-dried meals
Water filter or purification tablets
Headlamp
Pocket knife
Sitting pad
Best store for your outdoor gear
Find all the outdoor gear for your next hiking trail. Wheter it's a long-distance trail, day-hike or thru-hike, always bring your essentials.