What goes in your daypack?
There are 10 essential items you should carry in your daypack when heading out on a hike of up to 4 hours. You should pack a few additional items (extra food, water filter, layers of clothing) if you’re heading out on a full-day hike or into difficult or isolated terrain.
The 10 Essentials
Here’s a bit more detail about the 10 essentials.
1. Navigation
Map: Carry a map of the area of your hike and study it before you set out.
Compass: Learn to use a compass and carry it with you in case you become lost or disoriented.
GPS, altimeter (optional)
2. Sun protection
Sunscreen
Lip balm
Sunglasses
Hat
3. Insulation
Jacket, vest, pants, long underwear, gloves, hat (appropriate to area of hike and time of year)
4. Illumination
Headlamp or flashlight Extra batteries
5. First-aid kit
At a minimum, carry a few bandages, dressings, tape, antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment, ibuprofin, aspirin, moleskin, whistle
6. Fire
Matches or lighter
Waterproof container
Fire starter
7. Repair kit
Knife or multitool
Duct tape, safety pins
8. Nutrition
At a minimum, take snacks to replace a meal or two
9. Hydration
Water bottles/bladder
Water filter/treatment
10. Emergency shelter
Tent, tarp, bivy or reflective blanket
Beyond the 10 Essentials
These items are handy to carry and can make your trip more enjoyable.
Additional snacks (energy bars, gels, chews, trail mix)
Energy beverages or drink mixes
Utensils/cup
Toilet paper/sanitation trowel
Hand sanitizer
Insect repellent
Binoculars
Trekking poles
Bag for collecting trash
Route description or guidebook
Interpretive field guide(s)
Outdoor journal with pen/pencil
Quick-dry towel
Extra pair of socks
