Essential items to bring on a day hike

Taking the right items on a hike at the very least can be the difference between comfort and misery. In extreme cases, it can be the difference between life and death.

Start by dressing properly. This usually means layering your clothes to protect against wind and cold but also dressing lightly if out on a hot day. If the trail lacks shade, don a brimmed hat and sunglasses.

A good pair of hiking boots is necessary, though trail runners will work fine on flat terrain without rocks. Sandals or going barefoot are bad ideas. Wool socks work better than cotton ones.

Water is essential. Adults need at least a quart for every two hours hiking. Children need to drink about a quart every two hours of walking and more if the weather is hot or dry. Don’t drink from streams, rivers, ponds and lakes.

Map and compass also are required. Topographical maps work best. GPS is fine, but don’t expect to always have a signal when in remote areas or battery power on a long walk.

A small first-aid kit is extremely beneficial in case of an accident. Make sure it at least has bandages, scissors, medical tape, tweezers, and an antiseptic such as hydrogen peroxide, iodine or Betadine.

A quality trekking pole or walking stick is an excellent idea if your trail gains elevation, is uneven, or is wet. A pole reduces stress on your knees and lower back.

Lastly, insect repellent often is a must. Remember that you can sweat off repellent, so bring it with you rather than rely on one slathering when leaving your vehicle.

Other items you might consider bringing is trail mix for long hikes, sunscreen and lip balm if in sunny or windy areas, and your cell phone (and sans that a watch) to keep track of time and for emergency calls.

Must-Have, Can’t-Leave-Behind Hiking Gear

• Compass
• Multi-purpose tool
• Waterproof bags
• Safety whistle
• Trekking pole
• Waterproof matches

Learn about trail guidebooks available in the Hittin’ the Trail series.

6 Items to Take on a Hike with Kids

• Baby carrier
• Bandana
• Binoculars
• Camera
• Canteen
• Carabiner
• BONUS: Where to buy gear for day hiking with kids

Learn about trail guidebooks available in the Hittin’ the Trail series.

When you might not need a trekking pole

There are a few instances where a trekking pole is unnecessary and might best left at home.

Any flat, wide, short paved trail that you take without wearing a backpack probably doesn’t require a trekking pole if you’re at least in moderately good shape. Striking the trekking pole against asphalt and cement actually can do more harm to your wrist as the pole’s tip can’t penetrate the pavement, creating shock. If you do wear a lightly loaded backpack on such trails, a trekking pole still probably can be dispensed with so long as the distance is under a mile.

A number of day hiking trails at state, county and even national parks fit the description of a “flat, wide, short paved trail,” as they are designed for people to make brief jaunts from their vehicles to some interesting natural feature.

The more elevation gains, the less packed the surface, the longer the distance (especially over a mile), and the heavier your backpack load, however, and the benefits of using a trekking pole far outweigh the inconvenience of having one of you’re your hands occupied by carrying it.

Learn about trail guidebooks available in the Hittin’ the Trail series.

Trekking pole offers several benefits on hike

Look at almost any picture or illustration of a hiker, and you’re likely to see a trekking pole in his hands. There’s good reason for that – a trekking pole simply offers too many benefits to be left at home.

First and foremost, a trekking pole helps you maintain your balance when walking. Think of a chair. A three-legged stool always is more stable than a two-legged one. As you move over rough terrain – up and down a hill, across streams or rivers, over scree and rock – a trekking pole provides that third leg. Even if walking on a flat surface, a trekking pole is vital when carrying a backpack, as heavy loads make maintaining your normal, two-legged gait difficult.

Maintaining your balance reduces stress on your back, legs, knees and feet as your cross rough terrain and haul a backpack. The trekking pole always will take pressure off your back and hips, which is particularly important when going uphill. When descending, it greatly reduces shock to your knees and feet.

A trekking pole also can help you maneuver. It’s especially useful in pushing aside brush, spider webs, and other minor obstacles. You can use it to feel the stability of a stream-laden rock before stepping on it. It also can serve as a brace to break your fall.

There are a number of creative uses for a trekking pole as well. For example, if lost and forced to stay a night in the woods, it might be used as a pole to keep up your tarp. You also might employ it in self-defense; while it’s not strong enough to stop an animal, it can be used as a stick to keep the creature at bay.

Learn about trail guidebooks available in the Hittin’ the Trail series.

Which is best? Wood or metal trekking poles

Is a wooden pole better than a metal one for hiking?

When out on the trail, you’ll see hikers usually a variety of trekking poles. Usually though, they are made of one of two materials – wood or metal.

Which one is better to use? The answer depends on a number of factors and your personal preference.

Broadly speaking, a wooden trekking pole has a couple of major advantages over a metal pole (which usually is made of aluminum or carbon fiber). First, it is sturdier. Metal poles tend to be thin and built for lightness and so will bow. A wooden also often is hand carved, so often will be more ornamental, allowing it to express its user’s personality. This admittedly is an aesthetic factor rather than one of performance, but for some hikers that’s significant.

Likewise, a wooden pole also carries some disadvantages. Most notably, what you see is what you get when you buy it. They are not adjustable for your height, and typically there are no add-ons (such as tips or baskets), as there’s no place to attach them, unless you head into a wood shop and start modifying. Another problem is that they are inflexible. They come in one size only – the size you bought it in – so there’s no folding it. That may not sound like a big deal, yet imagine if you decided to take off your jacket but couldn’t fold it and had to carry it exactly in the shape it takes when worn; that would be inconvenient. Wooden poles also tend to be heavier and bulkier than their metal counterparts. They also will disintegrate from the natural elements if made of soft wood; hardwood poles do as well but have a longer life. Wooden poles also lack a shock absorber that the better metal poles will have; if walking long distances or on a rocky surface, that absorber can help reduce stress on your wrist and arm. Lastly, wooden poles’ hand/wrist straps are a single leather loop that can dig into your hands and will wear as exposed to the elements, though often the loop can be easily replaced.

The advantages of a metal pole, as you might imagine, are the disadvantages of a wooden pole. For example, metal poles sold in store are adjustable for your height. You also can easily add on or take off a whole variety of items – such as baskets or tips or camera mounts – to enhance your hiking experience. They also are collapsible and lightweight. They are fairly impervious to the elements unless exposed to salt, such as on oceanside walks. Better models come with a shock absorber. The hand/wrist straps usually are of better material and are wider than a wooden pole’s leather loop so they don’t dig it and they don’t wear as quickly.

Metal poles aren’t perfect, of course. They can break if too much weight is placed on them, though this typically is only a problem with the less expensive, cheaper made models. And as with almost anything that is mass produced, most of them lack any aesthetically unique qualities, though I suppose some people may prefer the manufactured look.

Learn about trail guidebooks available in the Hittin’ the Trail series.

How to put on a backpack for your hike

Putting on a backpack starts with standing it upright.

A loaded backpack is not only heavy but awkward to put on your back. Trying to twist your arms through the shoulder straps can prove difficult and result in an improperly placed pack – which in turn can lead to shoulder and back discomfort during and after the hike.

Properly putting on a backpack consists of a few simple steps.

First, set your loaded pack upright and then with one hand grab it by the haul loop (Unfamiliar with a backpack’s parts? Here’s a primer).

Next, widen your stance, bend your knees, and slide the pack up one of your thighs.

Slip your free arm through one of the shoulder straps. Bring the pack as far on the shoulder as it will go.

Lean forward, swing the pack onto your back, and slip your other arm through the open shoulder strap.

Secure the backpack by buckling the hip belt, then stand up straight.

Now you can tighten the various straps. Begin by cinching down the shoulder straps. Next, tighten or loosen the load adjuster straps (aka load lifter strap as needed. Finally, adjust and buckle the sternum strap.

You’re now ready to hit the trail!

Learn about trail guidebooks available in the Hittin’ the Trail series.

How to pack a backpack for a day hike

How you load your backpack can save you a lot of aches and pains,
both on the trail or long after the hike is over.

Many backpackers just toss their gear into their bag and go. While that may not seem like a big deal for a short day hike in which the backpack rarely is full, it actually can result in all kinds of problems – mostly discomfort but ultimately sore shoulders and back that last well beyond the hike. It also can ensure you don’t forget any items as you take the time to organize what you’ll pack. In short, whether day hiking or going on a long-distance hike, loading the backpack properly will save you a lot of aches and pains later.

Proper packing largely depends on properly distributing the pack’s weight.

With an internal-frame pack, begin by placing lightweight objects at the pack’s bottom. Then place the heaviest objects in the center so that they would sit between your shoulder blades and next to your back. Lightweight objects (clothing, sleeping bag, small items) surrounding them and facing outward about halfway up. Set the medium-weight objects (first-aid kit, water filter, stove) at the top and also around the heaviest items (tent, cooking equipment). Using this approach ensures the weight is placed on the hips, reducing shoulder and back soreness.

An external-frame pack is a bit different. As with an internal-frame, you want to place lightweight objects at the bottom. Next, place the medium-weight objects in the bag. The heaviest objects go in next but about halfway down on the side of the back closest to your back and partially surrounded by medium-weight objects. This also helps place the weight on your hips.

As packing, fill in empty spaces. For example, if you pack a pot, fill it full of rolled up socks or T-shirts. Doing this means you’ll have more space in your pack for more items and that you won’t be lugging air (The empty space in that pot isn’t a vacuum, after all!).

Any items that you will need to access frequently or quickly ought to be placed in the pouches on the backpack’s exterior or at the top. Among these items are navigational tools such as maps, compass or GPS, insect repellent, trail mix, first-aid kit and rainwear.

Finally, be careful of how the items are placed in the backpack. Make sure sharp-edged items aren’t pressed against the backpack’s side, especially if it will press against your body. You’ll find a tent stake point or a first-aid kit’s corner poking your back at every step extremely uncomfortable.

Learn about trail guidebooks available in the Hittin’ the Trail series.

Know parts of backpack to make best buy

Backpacks come in an array of styles to meet hikers' different needs.

Packs can consist
of several varying
components

If purchasing a backpack for the time, it likely will look like a mad array of straps, clips and buckles. Knowing the parts of a backpack can help you overcome that confusion so you can make the best decision when buying this important piece of hiking equipment.

At its most basic, a backpack really is nothing more than a sack. On modern backpacks, the sack is the main compartment in which you store clothing, supplies and gear. A component of the sack is the lid, or the flap that covers the sack's open top; sometimes the lid is called the brain. Another element of the sack are compression straps, which sit on the outside of the backpack and can be tightened so that the sack is more compact; this helps prevent items in the sack from shifting so that you can maintain better balance when walking.

A backpack next consists of a few straps to make that sack easier to carry. All backpacks will include shoulder straps, or thick loops that your arms slip through and that rest on the shoulders. More sophisticated backpacks include a load adjuster strap (aka load lifter strap) on the shoulder strap to lengthen or shorten it for a better fit. Larger volume backpacks also include an adjustable sternum strap that connects the two shoulder straps across the chest. The sternum strap helps prevent the backpack from jiggling and sliding as you step. In addition, larger backpacks include a hip belt (aka a waist belt). The hip belt shifts the weight of the backpack from the shoulders to the hips for better balance and comfort. Stabilizer straps on the hip belt allow you to tighten or loosen the hip belt. Equipment straps also can be found on some backpacks. They are used to hold items - ranging from a geology hammer to a sleeping mat or sleeping bag - to the pack’s exterior.

Most backpacks include pockets (aka compartments or storage pouches) as well. These are handy for storing water bottles/canteens, maps, sleeping bags, and other gear you want to be able to quickly reach.

Loops also are common on backpacks. These are good for hooking carabiners to. One special loop is the pack handle (aka haul strap), which can be used for carrying the backpack with your hand. It appears on the backpack’s top, usually behind the lid. Another special set of loops is a daisy chain, a series of external stitches for hooking gear to.

A lumbar pad often is added to the lower part of the backpack where the ends of the hip belt meet. This can prevent the backpack from rubbing against the lower back when hiking.

A hydration packtube also is popular in newer backpacks, especially those made for children. Sitting inside the backpack, the packtube takes the place of a water bottle/canteen. A tube connected to the packtube acts as a straw.

The frame is an important element in backpacks meant for longer hikes. A majority of backpacks contain an internal frame that gives the backpack its shape. If you purchase an external frame backpack, however, you’ll also need to get an external frame to hold the backpack and to strap to your body.

When purchasing a backpack, go for the simplest one that best meets your needs. For example, if you’re only day hiking and not camping, there’s no need to buy a backpack with a compartment that holds a sleeping bag. If you already have a canteen that will nicely fit into a backpack’s reachable pocket, there’s no need to buy a backpack with a hydration pack.

Learn about trail guidebooks available in the Hittin’ the Trail series.

Fabrics used to make backpacks offer competing positives, negatives

Most backpacks in the United States today are made of Cordura nylon.

Backpacks are made of different materials, and knowing the pluses and minuses of each can help you decide which fabric is the best for you.

Generally, manufacturers use one of four different fabrics: Cordura nylon; pack cloth; rip-stop nylon; and cotton canvas. The first three are synthetics and the fourth is a natural material.

By far the most common fabric used is Cordura nylon (aka Kodra). Offering a rough and fuzzy texture, it is resistant to abrasion. Since the material used to make backpacks is constantly stretched when the sack is loaded and often rubs against tree branches and rocks, abrasion is a significant issue with backpacks. The downside to Cordura is it is not as puncture resistant or as waterproof as other nylon fabrics.

An alternative is pack cloth. Somewhat shiny and slick to the touch, pack cloth is made from polyester. Its primary benefit is resistance to UV degradation, which can be a problem with backpacks as sunlight causes the polyurethane coating – the waterproofing material used on backpacks – to delaminate. Pack cloth also waterproofs well and is very resistant to punctures. The downside is it is a heavier fabric compared to any of the nylons. While once popular in the United States, today it’s primarily used in Europe and Australia.

A third type of fabric is rip-stop nylon. Made of a grid pattern of heavy threads, it’s stronger than standard nylon and so is unlikely to further rip if the backpack is punctured or torn. The downside is holes are more likely to appear from abrasion. Though common in Europe, in the United States is is mainly found in upmarket backpacks.

The fourth material is cotton canvas. Though rarely found in new backpacks, it was the most common fabric used during the last century. Because of the abundance of used military rucksacks, backpacks made of this material can be readily found as surplus and second-hand stores, making it a very inexpensive option. Cotton canvas, however, needs to be waterproofed, is heavy compared to synthetic materials, and if wet can rot.

Learn about trail guidebooks available in the Hittin’ the Trail series.

Consider waist size when purchasing backpack for day hikes

Getting the right wait size can maximize comfort on your hike.
Photo courtesy of Photoree.

When purchasing a backpack, among the measurements to consider is the waist size, which often is referred to as hip size. The waist size isn’t as important as the backpack’s fit (aka torso length), but different body shapes may require a larger or smaller hip belt (aka a waist belt) to ensure comfort.

To measure your waist size, starting at your belly button wrap a tape measure around the top of your hips. This is a higher point than where the top of your pants sit, so your pants’ waist size likely will be a little different than the backpack’s waist size.

Next, check the backpack tag to see that it matches your waist size. If you’ve got the right waist size, the belly button will be at the center of the hip belt when you wear backpack.

Sometimes a backpack model, regardless of its torso length, comes in only one hip belt size. Usually manufacturers provide hip belts that can be switched out, however.

Troubleshooting hip belt issues
Hip belt covers the hip bones or slides below them
Try tightening the hip belt. If that doesn’t help, the hip belt is too long and needs to be replaced with a shorter one.

Hip belt rests on lower back rather than sides of hips
The belt is too short. Lengthen it, and if that doesn’t work, replace it with a longer one.

Hip belt’s pocket is behind your arms when they hang at your side.
The belt is too short. Lengthen it, and failing that, replace it with a longer belt.

Learn about trail guidebooks available in the Hittin’ the Trail series.

Get right fitting backpack for your day hike

A good-fitting backpack first requires that you know your torso size.
Photo courtesy of dreamstime.

When purchasing a backpack, you’ll need to find the right size. Known as fit, it's typically measured by your torso size, or in inches; some companies will generalize the torso sizes and list them as small-medium-large.

To determine your torso size, you'll need a tape measure and someone who can take the measurement for you. Measure your back from the vertebrae at the neck’s base to the point in the small of your back that is level with the top of the hipbones. The neck's base is the 7th cervical vertebra and easily can be found simply by tilting your head forward; the vertebra will be a bony bump. The top of the hipbones can be found by placing your hands on your hips; the space between your thumbs and fingers is the spot to measure from.

Once you've measured between those two points, write down the number. While shopping for backpacks, check the backpack tags to determine which ones will be the best fit.

Usually, for men extra small sizes are good for a torso size of up to 15.5 inches. A small fits 16-17.5 inch torsos. Medium or regular is good for 18-19.5 inches. Large or tall fits torsos that are 20 inches and up. Always remember that companies do vary in their sizes, and a small for a man means a something entirely different than a small for a woman.

Always fit yourself for a backpack before buying it. Select one that rides comfortably on your back, that doesn’t chafe, and that doesn’t stress the shoulders and pull on your neck. When fitting it, load it lightly with about 15-20 pounds of gear. Stores usually have pillows and sacks for doing this. Adjust the straps. The shoulder straps should be snug but allow your arms to move freely while the hip belt should rest comfortably on your hipbones. Next, look for padded straps and a padded waist belt for comfort and sewed joints to ensure sturdiness.

If properly sized:
g There will be no gap between the straps and the shoulders, and the load lifter anchor point will be at the collar bone.
g The hip belt will sit over the pelvic bones
g The sternum strap will sit between the chest and collarbone, and it won't slip outward during scrambles uphill. A sternum strap that is too low will restrict chest expansion and hence your breathing.
g The backpack and its parts, when you walk, will not alter your natural posture, balance or movement.

Learn about trail guidebooks available in the Hittin’ the Trail series.

How to select best backpack size for hike

The best size for your backpack depends on a number of factors.
Photo courtesy of aconat / Photoree. 

When day hiking, you’ll almost always want to wear a backpack. This ensure you have much needed supplies – a first-aid kit, your maps, a snack – during the hike. You probably won’t need the loaded-to-the-hilt backpack you see hikers carrying in national magazines, though.

Which backpack size you choose largely depends upon your needs. There are several questions to consider when selecting a backpack size that best serves you.

How much will you carry?
The more you carry, the larger (and heavier) your backpack must be. Usually on a day hike, you won’t need to take as many items as when on a backcountry hike (For example, day hikers don’t need a tent, sleeping bag or bedroll.), so a smaller (and lighter) pack is sufficient. Also, when packing, you’ll want to ensure there’s a little extra space at the top of the bag, so take that into consideration as well.

How long will you hike?
If going several miles (Some hikers walk as much as 12-15 miles on a day hike), you’ll want a backpack with a frame, as it better supports the gear’s weight and balances better on you your back. A short walk of up to four miles likely won’t require a frame.

How much do you like to compartmentalize?
A smaller, lighter pack has fewer storage pouches than a larger, heavier backpack, so you’ll find yourself tossing almost everything into a single “bag,” requiring you do some digging should you need an item. Ironically, the larger the pack, usually the easier finding stuff is (because items are allocated to specific pouches).

Your best bet is to try out several backpacks at the store to see which one fits best. If you can’t decide between two of them, go with the lighter pack. Should it not be sufficient, you always can purchase a larger size and keep the smaller pack for shorter hikes and those hiking with you (such as your teenage children).

Learn about trail guidebooks available in the Hittin’ the Trail series.

Consider bringing along specific gear for desert hikes with children

Mojave Desert, Calfornia

As a dry, severe environment, deserts offer both incredible scenic wonders and grave dangers. Because of the former, they make for great hiking terrain…because of the latter, specific hiking gear and equipment is essential for a day hike there.

Whenever on a desert hike, be sure to have the following equipment or items:
g Boots – You’ll want footgear with ankle support, that breathes, and that has a soft, flexible sole to ensure traction. To that end, wear lightweight, breathable hiking boots. Sandals will expose your skin to sunburn, thorns and sharp rocks while running shoes lack the ankle support needed for crossing rocky terrain.
g Sun hat – A brim provides the extra protection needed to shade your face, not just to avoid sunburn but to prevent being blinded by the sun. Consider getting a sun hat that includes a flap to keep the sunlight off your neck.
g Lighter colored clothing – White and other light colors will better reflect the sunlight than black and dark clothing, which absorb it, resulting in more heat upon the body.
g Sunscreen – An SPF 50 is essential as the sand reflects sunlight back onto the body, resulting in a burn. Sweat will wash away sunscreen, so you likely will need to reapply it during rest breaks.
g Lip balm – The lips also can be burned or chapped by sunlight as well a wind. An SPF 30 balm will protect them. Reapply the balm after drinking water.
g Extra water – Any arid environment requires that you take in more water than usual. Consider carrying it in collapsible canteens to lessen the weight or in a hydration pack, which kids are more likely to regularly use as they can more easily sip water as walking.
g Insect repellent – Usually dry areas are low on bug count, but don’t be surprised to run into sand flies and midges or when near a wet area into mosquitoes.

Read more about day hiking with children in my Hikes with Tykes guidebooks.