Gear for Short Hikes
Even on short hikes, it's a good idea to bring along certain gear. While it can be dependent on the particular trail you are doing (i.e. if the trail has water crossings), there are some essential items I don't leave home without. Here is a list of my essentials:
Day Pack - I use the REI Flash 22 backpack for my hikes. I like that is has two slots for water bottles as well as a pocket on the inside for a hydration reservoir. There are larger backpacks out there, but for a short hike, this size bag does the trick for me.
Hydration Reservoir - This was a game changer for me. I have the Gregory 3D Hydro Reservoir 2L. If you are going to use a hydration reservoir, make sure you have a backpack that can house one easily. These packs also come in varying sizes so it may help to figure out how much water you normally consume on a normal hike. (Bonus: I also just purchased a valve cover for my hydration reservoir which was an even bigger game changer because I somehow manage to get the bite valve dirty on quite a few hikes.)
Extra Water Bottle - Some times, when I know the weather is going to be extremely hot, I also make sure to bring along an extra water bottle or two. You can never have too much water!
Protein Bars - My go-to trail snack is a Clif Bar. I also usually have a Quaker bar for quicker, smaller pick-me-ups. It's a good idea to bring along some sort of snack on a short hike. You may realize halfway through that you need more energy!
Sunscreen - Extremely important to bring along sunscreen no matter the season. I apply sunscreen before I leave for a hike but also end up reapplying at least once during the outing. The aerosol sunscreens are nice to have for the trail because they are quick and easy to apply.
First Aid Kit - It's always a good idea to bring along some bandaids, antiseptic, and other small first aid items. You never know when you may need it. I know I've used at least a couple of bandaids this past year while on a trail.
Navigation Tool - Usually this ends up being my cell phone because I know I'll have enough service to get GPS, but if you know you are going to a trail that isn't going to have cell service, you will want to bring along a compass or GPS device. It also helps to have read up on the trail so you know where there are turn offs, forks, or if the trail peters out.
Hat/Sunglasses/Other Clothes - It's important to know what the weather is going to be like on the day of your hike. In Southern California, it's almost always going to be sunny so I make sure to bring a hat and sunglasses. In the colder months, I also bring layers in case it gets cold in the higher elevations.
Hiking Boots - A good pair of sturdy, comfy hiking boots is essential. It is easy for feet to get sore, tired, or blistery when walking for miles on dirt and rocks. I have a pair of Columbia hiking boots which have served me well.
Those are my essential items for short hikes. The longer the hike, the more gear you are going to need to bring to be safe. REI has a great Hiking Checklist that is very helpful in determining what you might want to pack.
Have any other gear items you think are essential for short hikes? Share them in the comments!
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