What to bring to Hiking must haves optional items

I would like to share here what you need to bring when you're hiking in the summer and the winter. Of course, what you bring depends on the person and the location, but here are some key items I recommend so you don’t forget anything.

People admire a glowing Half Dome at sunset, with orange clouds above. Photographers capture the scene, creating a serene, awe-filled mood. — Visitors gather at Yosemite National Park to witness the stunning Golden Hour illuminating Half Dome, as vibrant clouds add to the picturesque scene from Glacier point.

List for the

✅ Must-Have Essentials (For Any Hike)

These are the absolute basics you should bring on any hike, no matter how short or easy.

Navigation I know I know you wont get the physical map it is too much work. But I highly recommend getting a power bank. Because you never know what is going to happen and you might end up without your phone. Second thing is if you download your google map. Which I showed it in the "The Ultimate Road Trip Checklist" URL second point will show you how to download the map area so you can use it offline.

🗺️ Physical map & compass (don’t rely only on your phone)
📱 GPS device or hiking app (AllTrails, Gaia GPS, Maps.me)
🧭 Download the google map before heading to the hiking.
🔋 Power bank

Hydration

I think the most important thing to bring on a hike is, of course, water. I once hiked to El Capitan, which was an amazing experience. However, the trail was around 15-16 miles round trip with about 4,000 feet of elevation gain, and since it was September, it was still quite hot in Yosemite. I brought water, but not enough. Unfortunately, I ran out before even reaching the top of El Cap.

In the end, I was lucky to find a creek where I could refill my water bottles. It was a stressful hike because if I hadn’t found that creek, I don’t know how I would have made it back to my car. So, always check the weather conditions before you hike. Consider the elevation gain, the length of the trail, and—most importantly—make sure you have enough water. If you plan to use water from a creek or river, a good water filter is essential.

💧 Minimum 2L of water per person
🥤 Collapsible water bottle or hydration bladder
🏕️ Water filter or purification tablets (for refills in nature)
⚡ Electrolyte tablets/powder (for hot days or long hikes)

A majestic view of the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree on Earth by volume, towering high in Sequoia National Park. The colossal tree’s massive trunk stretches upward against a backdrop of towering sequoias, with sunlight filtering through the forest canopy — The General Sherman Tree stands proudly in Sequoia National Park, a natural wonder and the largest tree by volume on the planet. Its awe-inspiring size and ancient presence make it a must-see for visitors to the park.

What Food & Snacks to Bring on a Hike

The amount of food you bring depends on the length of the hike, but I usually pack some nuts for a quick energy boost. For longer hikes, I bring sandwiches or other lightweight, high-energy, and non-perishable options. However, it's important to be mindful of wildlife—especially in bear country—so make sure to store your food properly to avoid attracting animals.

Best Foods & Snacks for Hiking

🥜 Trail Mix & Nuts – High in protein and healthy fats for sustained energy.

🍫 Granola or Protein Bars – Easy to carry, packed with nutrients.

🍇 Dried Fruits – A great source of natural sugar for a quick energy boost.

🥜 Nut Butter Packets – Peanut or almond butter for protein and calories.

🍖 Jerky (Beef/Turkey/Vegan) – Lightweight and packed with protein.

🍘 Crackers or Rice Cakes – A good source of carbs without taking up much space.

🧀 Cheese (Hard Cheese is Best) – Doesn’t spoil quickly and adds protein/fat.

🐟🍗 Tuna or Chicken Packets – Convenient and protein-packed, but be mindful of odor.

💧 Electrolyte Tablets/Powder – Helps with hydration, especially in hot weather.

🥣 Instant Oatmeal Packets – If you’re hiking overnight, they’re a lightweight meal option.

What NOT to Bring on a Hike (Especially in Bear Country)

🥓 Strong-Smelling Foods – Avoid fish, bacon, or heavily spiced meals. Bears have an extremely keen sense of smell.

🍌🍊 Fresh Fruits (Especially Citrus & Bananas) – The strong aroma can attract wildlife.

🍭 Sugary or Sticky Foods – They can melt or get messy in your pack.

🎭 Anything in Loud Packaging – Crinkly wrappers can disturb wildlife and other hikers.

Clothing & Layers (Dress for weather changes!)

Good raincoat is essential. Weather can change quickly, especially in the mountains. It can be sunny one moment and rainy or windy the next, so having a quality raincoat will keep you comfortable and dry.

Extra socks are also crucial. If you're hiking during the rainy season or in wet conditions, your shoes and socks are likely to get soaked. Having an extra pair of socks to change into will prevent blisters and help keep you comfortable. If you don’t want to carry them with you on the trail, leave a fresh pair in your car so you can change into dry socks when you get back.

Here is the full list for the clothes:

👕 Moisture-wicking base layer (no cotton)
🧥 Insulating mid-layer (fleece or down jacket)
🏔️ Waterproof & windproof outer shell
🧦 Extra socks (merino wool to prevent blisters)
🧢 Sun hat or beanie (depending on weather)
🧤 Gloves (for cold conditions)

A person standing on a fallen tree amidst the towering redwoods of Redwood National Park's Karl Knapp Trail. The individual appears small in comparison to the massive, ancient trees surrounding them, highlighting the grandeur of the park's towering redwoods and lush forest environment. — Standing on a fallen tree in Redwood National Park on the Karl Knapp Trail. The towering redwoods around me make me feel small, showing just how massive and old these incredible trees are.

Footwear (Trail-specific)

When hiking, there are a few essentials you should always have to stay comfortable and prepared. First and foremost, hiking shoes are a must. If you're hiking a few times a month, it’s worth investing in a good pair. I personally use ON shoes, and while this isn’t an ad, here’s the link if you want to check them out: ON Hiking Shoes.

🥾 Sturdy hiking boots (for rugged terrain)
👟 Trail running shoes (for light hikes)
🦶 Gaiters (for wet, muddy, or snowy trails)
🧊 Crampon/spikes (for icy or snowy conditions, providing extra traction)

Safety & First Aid

I’ll be honest – I don’t always carry a full first aid kit or medicine on my hikes, but I make sure to have it in my car at all times. However, I do always bring a knife with me. And if I encounter a bear... well, I’ll just have to save the day, right? 😂

🎒 First aid kit (bandages, antiseptic, blister pads, tweezers)
💊 Pain relievers, allergy meds, and any personal medication
🩹 Duct tape (for gear repair or blister prevention)
🔪 Multi-tool or knife

Enjoying the serenity of Sequoia National Park at sunrise, where the giant trees rise majestically as the first light of the day fills the forest with warmth.

Emergency & Survival Gear

I believe there's one item on this list that’s an absolute must-have: a headlamp. I've used mine several times during my hikes, and it’s saved me more than once. One particular time, I was hiking in the Smoky Mountains, and after reaching the top, a guy came up to me and said he had lost his way back to the parking lot. He didn’t know how to get back, so I offered to help him. We started hiking back down together, but he was slow, and we ended up using our headlamps for the last mile because we didn’t make it before sunset. I didn't have a power bank with me at that time, so I was really grateful to have the headlamp – without it, I wouldn’t have been able to see anything in the dark! The rest of the gear is up to you, but I definitely recommend having a headlamp on hand.

Here’s a checklist to keep you prepared:

🔦 Headlamp or flashlight (with extra batteries)
🆘 Emergency whistle
🏕️ Emergency blanket or bivvy sack
🔥 Fire-starting kit (lighter, waterproof matches)
🚨 Personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite communicator (for remote areas)

Sun & Bug Protection I usually don’t use sunscreen, but after getting a sunburn on my hike to Half Dome in Yosemite, I learned the hard way. After that experience, I always make sure to bring sunscreen. Trust me, you might hike for 10 hours, but the pain from a sunburn can last for days—like it did for me!

Here’s what you should consider bringing to protect yourself from the sun and bugs:

🕶️ Sunglasses (UV protection)
🌞 Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
💄 Lip balm with SPF
🦟 Bug spray (DEET or natural alternative)

On the half dome edge overlooking a vast yosemite valley with mountains under a clear blue sky. The scene conveys a sense of peacefulness and awe. — Breathtaking view from the top of Half Dome in Yosemite, showcasing the vast and rugged landscape beneath a clear blue sky.

Shelter (for longer hikes or emergencies)

I don't really hike that long so I don't have any stories for these. However I just wanted to have these in my list so you guys might need it.

⛺ Lightweight tent or bivy sack
🌿 Tarp or emergency rain poncho

"Leave No Trace" Essentials

"Leave no F trace." Take your garbage with you—don’t leave it in nature. Bring a small trash bag so you can carry your waste back with you. We only have one planet, so let’s respect it and keep our trails clean!