Revamped Article:
Essential Items to Equip for Your Hiking Adventure: Explore Our List of 24 Must-Haves
Stoked for your new hobby? First-time hikers, prepare for an incredible journey! But remember, being ready is key to an enjoyable experience.
Thanks to our approachable editors, we've handpicked some recommendations to get you started on your trekking adventure. Keep in mind that BuzzFeed (and partners) might receive a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links we've provided in this article.
For a lightweight backpack, check out the following option on Amazon:
This water- and tear-resistant nylon bag (priced at $18.99) holds about 20 liters and can pack into itself for easy storage. It's reinforced in more than 31 places, and reviewers have often praised its comfort and lightweight feel.
To cover your bases, don't forget a first-aid kit:
Stock your backpack with this essential kit, complete with a first-aid guide, assorted bandages, a CPR mask, emergency blanket, tape, pads, scissors, safety pins, a tourniquet, q-tips, sanitizer wipes, and eye wash. Find it on Amazon for $14.95.
Stay hydrated with a handy hydration pack:
This unique pack offers up to 2 liters of water and has a super durable, leakproof water bladder. It also features a clever nozzle for hands-free drinking, and there are pockets to stash your keys and snacks. Find it on Amazon for $19.98.
Keep a cool breeze going with a portable neck fan:
This neck fan provides three levels of air flow, works for 2.5-6 hours, and has built-in lighting for nighttime use. Be sure to put your hair in a ponytail before wearing to avoid tangles and unsnags when the fan moves. Get it on Amazon for $10.95.
In a pinch, grab a set of cooling towels:
Simply soak these towels in water, wring them out, and place them around your neck for instant cooling during hot hikes. They keep their chill for hours before needing to be re-soaked. Find them on Amazon for $14.99.
Protect yourself from unwanted bugs with a mosquito head net:
This net has 620 holes per square inch and ensures not even the tiniest mosquito can sneak through. Plus, it's lightweight and easy to wear. Find it on Amazon for $8.83.
Keep your electronics dry with a waterproof pouch:
Protect your prized possessions, such as your phone, from unexpected water and mud splashes during your hike. This case also allows you to still use the touchscreen. Find it on Amazon for $7.99.
Sport a reusable "Butt Be Dry" tarp:
This lightweight, waterproof, and mud-proof tarp lets you sit anywhere during your hike without getting your clothes dirty or wet. It's also handy for quick diaper changes. Get it from Butt Be Dry for $19.99.
Start off on the right foot with Colombia hiking boots:
These waterproof and lightweight boots feature advanced traction rubber soles to handle any kind of terrain you encounter. Find them on Amazon for $66.91.
Use a bug bite suction tool for quick relief:
This simple tool removes insect saliva, venom, and other irritants from bug bites, helping to reduce itchiness, inflammation, and swelling. Get it on Amazon for $9.95.
Get a handle on rough terrain with hiking poles:
These adjustable hiking poles aid in navigating tough terrain and help you ascend hills with ease. They're also lightweight and foldable for easy carrying. Find them on Amazon for $26.99.
Have a lifeline with a paracord bracelet:
This accessory offers peace of mind with a fire starter, compass, loud emergency whistle, emergency knife, and 12 feet of military-grade paracord all in one convenient package. Get a pack of two from Amazon for $10.99.
Keep your feet comfortable and stylish with moisture-wicking hiking socks:
These socks offer added cushioning and keep your feet dry, cool, and blister-free. Plus, they come in a variety of colors and designs. Find them on Amazon for $13.99.
Filter your water with a water filtration straw:
This portable filter works in nearly any water source, making it perfect for emergencies or outdoor adventures. It removes up to 99.9999% of bacteria, 99.9% of protozoan parasites, and filters to 0.2 microns. Find it on Amazon for $14.99.
Keep fresh with moisturizing body cleansing wipes:
These wipes remove sweat, oil, and grime, leaving you refreshed on the go. They're perfect for outdoor adventures, travel, or fitness activities. Get a 10-pack from Amazon for $9.99.
Shoo away bugs with a DEET-free plant-based bug repellent:
This chemical-free option offers long-lasting protection against mosquitos, ticks, and other pesky insects. It's also safe for sensitive skin and leaves a pleasant lemon eucalyptus scent. Buy it on Amazon for $4.97.
Heat up your meals with a portable camping stove:
This compact stove is easy to carry and quick to set up, making it perfect for beginners. Use it to cook delectable dishes during your hiking adventures. Find it on Amazon for $14.99.
Illuminate your way with a portable and waterproof lantern:
This rechargeable and waterproof lantern offers six light modes, a power bank, a red light setting, and a two-way hook. Get it on Amazon for $21.99.
Pump up the music with a portable Bluetooth speaker:
Take your playlist on the go with this palm-sized wireless speaker. It offers excellent sound quality and connects easily to your device. Find it on Amazon for $14.99.
Prevent chafing with Body Glide anti-chafing balm:
This balm provides relief from friction between areas such as your thighs, arms, and feet. Its smooth formula ensures a comfortable hiking experience. Pick it up on Amazon for $8.99.
Navigate with ease with a military-grade compass:
This waterproof, dust-proof, and shockproof compass ensures you'll always find your way. It's also glows in the dark and offers a magnified lens for improved accuracy. Get it on Amazon for $15.99.
Spy on the wilderness with waterproof binoculars:
These portable binoculars offer 12X magnification, a wide field of view, and are suitable for both outdoor and indoor use. Enjoy birding, wildlife spotting, or taking in the view from a summit. Grab them on Amazon for $28.79.
Capture amazing memories with a 9-in-1 photo lens kit:
This lens kit includes a wide-angle lens, macro lens, fisheye lens, and more. It easily attaches to your smartphone and offers multiple creative shooting options. Find it on Amazon for $25.99.
Stay cozy on cold hikes with hand warmers:
These disposable hand warmers provide up to 10 hours of heat and are perfect for hiking in winter. They activate when shaken and last longer when handled less frequently. Get a pack of 10 pairs from Amazon for $8.09.
- The water- and tear-resistant nylon backpack from Amazon, priced at $18.99, is a great choice for a lightweight backpack on hikes, as it can hold about 20 liters and is reinforced in more than 31 places, making it comfortable and lightweight.
- To cover all bases during hikes, it's essential to have a first-aid kit. On Amazon, you can find a comprehensive first-aid kit for $14.95, which includes a first-aid guide, assorted bandages, a CPR mask, emergency blankets, tape, pads, scissors, safety pins, a tourniquet, q-tips, sanitizer wipes, and eye wash.
- To stay hydrated on hikes, consider a hydration pack found on Amazon for $19.98. This pack offers up to 2 liters of water, has a super durable, leakproof water bladder, and features a clever nozzle for hands-free drinking, making it perfect for hiking.
