Hiking Gear List
Here is a list of all the gear I carry on a day hike with a brief review on each; sometimes, there will be a link to a full review. Click on any of the photos to see where you buy the item, there is also a button at the bottom to see the latest price on Amazon if available. All the products below are tried and tested by me, and I recommend them all. Don't forget your lunch and snacks!
She's Going Solo may receive commissions for links included in articles to Amazon and other affiliate partners. Recommendations are not given out lightly, and all products recommended have been tried and tested.
Backpack
I have been using this hiking daypack for a couple of years now, and I love it. It's got a good amount of pockets, including on the waist strap; it's fully adjustable and has a section for a water bladder. It's lightweight and comfortable.
Down Jacket
This down jacket comes everywhere with me no matter the weather; it's great all year round. Great for sitting out of your tent on a summers evening, because we all know in this country it gets cold at night. However, even on a summers day hike, it can be cold on those mountain tops.
Waterproof Coat
Mountain Equipment Saltoro GORE-TEX Waterproof Jacket
This hiking waterproof coat is a great lightweight waterproof jacket that will fold up into its hood and pack away in your bag. I've had no issues with it and used it in heavy rain. It has many pockets and underarm zips to help with airflow.
Waterproof Trousers
Berghaus Waterproof Paclite Pant
I love these hiking trousers; they have zips all the way up, so there is no problem getting them on over your chunky hiking boots. I used them in heavy rain, and they have never let me down. They fold up very small.
Waterproof Socks
I love these waterproof socks; they are soft, comfy and fully waterproof.
See the full review here
Garmin Mini
As I mostly go out solo, safety has to be a high priority for me, and I need to make sure I contact home and emergency services if required, even if I have no signal, so this Garmin Mini is perfect. You can see your GPS location and retrace your steps if needed, but mostly, I use this for messaging home. It also gives my loved ones peace of mind when I am out, as they can track my location.
First Aid Kit
It's an essential bit of anyone's kit. This first aid kit gives you everything you need for those little emergencies.
Emergency Shelter
When I did my navigation and mountain skills training, the leader insisted that I always carry an emergency shelter. It will provide a dry and warmer place to sit if you get into trouble and have to wait hours for help. I take this on all my day hikes.
Water Bladder
Having a water bladder makes accessing your water very easy, and most backpacks have a hydration section to stow it away in.
Compass
I never knew that there was a difference in compass quality; however, I have been assured that Silva is the best brand. You do not need your compass to fail you, which the cheap ones can.
Gloves
These 360Dry gloves are soft comfy, and 100% waterproof; they are great for scrambling and just being out in all weather. Plus, they have the touch screen finger and thumb, so you don't have to take them off to use your phone.
Hat
I always carry my bobble hat, which is great for when you hit the top and the temperatures drop. I love this North Face one because it has a fleece lining that goes over the ears.
Buy here.
Toilet Bag
This always goes out with me, day hikes or camps. It comprises of a trowel, toilet paper, wipes and spare sandwich bags. Please always follow the leave no trace principles carry out any paper, and always bury any number 2's.
Battery Pack
I always carry a battery bank to recharge my phone, my Garmin mini, head torches, etc. It gives you peace of mind, especially when you are out on your own; however, don't rely on technology for navigation, even with a power pack.
This power pack can provide:
There are more than 5 charges for the iPhone XS, almost 5 total charges for the Samsung Galaxy S10, more than 4 charges for the iPhone 11, and over 2 and a half charges for the iPad mini 5
Water Filter
I never go on a wild camp without my water filters. I never want to run the risk of not having any fresh water. I've tried several filters and felt this is the best one. Plus, the bottle it comes with is easy to fill and squish down. It also fits onto a Cnoc water bladder. If you know there will be water where you're going to set up, you carry less up.