Gear Essentials

Hiking is one of those amazing activities that doesn’t require you to break the bank on expensive equipment. With a few key items, you can hit the trails and embark on a world of adventure. So, let’s get you geared up and ready to explore the great outdoors!

Tip: Essential Gear to Get Started

Let’s start by talking about two of the most fundamental pieces of hiking gear that should be on your checklist: socks and water. Yes, it might sound straightforward, but the devil is in the details!

Socks: Splurge:

When it comes to hiking, don’t underestimate the power of a good pair of socks. Opt for moisture-wicking, wool socks.  Merino wool is the soft, friendly version of wool so you don’t have to worry about wearing heavy, itchy socks. These will keep your feet comfortable, dry, and blister-free. The key here is to invest in quality. While you might be tempted to use your everyday cotton socks, they can lead to discomfort and blisters as they trap moisture.

All of my hiking socks are the brand Smartwool. Any merino wool is better than cotton.  The height and thickness of your sock is going to be personal preference. I prefer the thin, running/ankle socks for hiking and the thick ski socks for camping.

Water: Go Cheap

Staying hydrated on the trail is non-negotiable.

Dehydration can quickly turn a fun hike into an exhausting ordeal. Make sure you bring an adequate supply of water. The amount you need depends on the duration and difficulty level of your hike and the weather. A good rule of thumb is to carry at least one liter of water for every two hours of hiking. If you’re exploring hot and sunny trails, you might need more.

Where the gear comes in is how you carry your water.  If you’re going to start with short hikes, you can carry a water bottle.  But I highly recommend getting a hydration pack.  It’s a backpack with a water reservoir and it helps even out the weight.  If you carry a bottle, your hand might get sweaty, or swollen and you have to change hands. Carrying water on your back helps keep everything in line and starts to get you ready for your longer hikes.

If you’re interested in a hydration pack, you can go cheap here.  Just get one that has a buckle on the waist, with hip pads, like this one.  Click here.

I usually hike with at least 3 liters (100 oz) of water, even on my shorter hikes. NOTE:  Every liter of water is 2.2 lbs.   More on this later.

Now, you might be wondering, “What about the fancy gear like hiking boots, backpacks, and trekking poles?”

Well, don’t worry; we’ll get to those in later tips. For now, if you have a pair of tennis shoes / sneakers, that’s all you need to get started.  Just go slow until you’re comfortable and turn around if you feel like you don’t have traction.