My Complete Hiking Packing List: Trail-Tested Gear and Tips

Planning your next hiking adventure and wondering what to pack? I’ve got you covered with my complete hiking packing list!

Whether you’re climbing Yosemite’s Mist Trail, hiking through hoodoos and arches in Utah’s national parks, or chasing waterfalls in Iceland, one thing holds true: having the right gear can make or break your hiking experience.

After years of exploring trails in places like Thailand’s Khao Sok National Park, Oregon’s Columbia River Gorge, countless U.S. national parks, and all around Iceland—mostly in spring, summer, and fall, I’ve learned exactly what’s worth carrying (and what can stay behind).

This ultimate hiking packing list is designed for day hikers, whether you’re road-tripping through national parks or exploring trails closer to home. I’ll start with the year-round hiking essentials that I never hit the trail without, then break down season-specific additions to help you stay safe, comfortable, and prepared—no matter the forecast.

Hiking Packing List for All Seasons

From crisp mountain mornings to sunny canyon afternoons and even the occasional waterfall spray, day hiking requires preparation, and packing smart is essential. These are the core essentials I bring on every hike, regardless of season or destination.

Clothing & Layering

Layering is essential for staying comfortable on the trail, no matter where you’re hiking. Temperatures can vary dramatically between trailhead and summit—and even hour-by-hour—especially in places like Yosemite, Bryce Canyon, and Canyonlands, where mornings are chilly and afternoons heat up fast.

The right layers help regulate your temperature, manage sweat, and keep you dry and comfortable throughout the day. Here’s what I recommend you wear for a full-day hiking adventure:

• A Moisture-wicking base layer is crucial for managing sweat and regulating body temperature during long hikes.
• An insulated mid-layer like a fleece or light jacket is perfect for cooler early morning starts. I usually carry my trusty insulated North Face jacket, which I’ve had for years.
• A rain jacket or windbreaker is a must for unexpected weather and waterfall trails, like Utah’s Lower Calf Creek Falls, Oregon’s Trail of Ten Falls, and those in Yosemite and Iceland.
• Always wear comfortable hiking pants/shorts. I alternate between leggings and workout shorts (with pockets to hold my phone!) or water-resistant pants depending on the trail and weather.
• A sun hat and polarized sunglasses are great for sunny, high-altitude trails.

Footwear & Trail Gear

Your feet will carry you every step of the way, so what you wear (and carry) matters. These are the non-negotiables that will keep you stable, supported, and safe—especially on those more rugged, steep, or muddy trails.

• Hiking boots or sturdy trail shoes are a must. Prioritize support and traction for stability and traction across slick rock, steep terrain, mud, etc., and remember to break them in before your hike!
• Wool or moisture-wicking socks will keep your feet dry and help to prevent blisters.
• Waterproof hiking sandals are great for jungle hikes in warmer climates like Khao Sok National Park or Tamarindo, Costa Rica.
• Trekking poles are an optional but incredibly helpful addition to help with balance and reducing impact on steep or uneven terrain (I especially wished I had them on this epic hike in Yosemite!).

Daypack Essentials

Your daypack (or hydration pack) is your mobile support kit, and a well-prepared one makes all the difference! You’ll want something lightweight but roomy, with enough space for layers, water, and snacks and plenty of pockets to keep everything organized.

Whether you’re hiking for two hours or ten, here are some essentials that I never hike without.

• 3+ liters of water per person, especially in dry climates like Utah’s national parks or on strenuous hikes like the Four Mile Trail in Yosemite.
• Electrolytes to prevent dehydration on long, exposed hikes—heat and exertion demand more hydration (LMNT is my go-to).
• High-energy snacks and a lunch like sandwiches, fruit, jerky, and granola bars. Always bring more than you think you’ll need!
• Sunscreen and SPF lip balm to protect your skin and lips from intense mountain or desert sun.
• Bug spray or mosquito repellent bracelets for early summer hikes where you’ll be near meadows or lakes and when trekking through rainforests like in Khao Sok National Park.
• Small first-aid kit equipped with blister pads, band aids, gauze, feminine products, medications you take regularly, and any other medications you may want to have handy for headaches, sinus congestion, cough, upset stomach, etc.
• Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder that’s easy to refill.
• Swimsuit for trails where there’s an opportunity to swim safely.
• Small, waterproof bag for packing out wet swimsuits or to keep electronics dry on rainy or misty hikes.
• Small zip pouch with tissues or toilet paper, hand sanitizer, etc. (especially nice for trails without restrooms).
• Bag to pack out any and all trash (including food waste).

Smart Extras

These might not seem like “must-haves,” but they’ve saved the day for me more than once.

Here are some small but mighty add-ons that will make your hike smoother, safer, and more enjoyable and should definitely be on your hiking packing list.

• I always wear my Apple Watch to track my workouts, including hikes, as well as to monitor heart rate and other key stats.
• A portable charger or power bank is essential for keeping your phone and other devices charged while tracking your hike, using trail apps or taking photos (all of which drain your battery quickly).
• A waterproof cell phone case with a lanyard is nice for waterfall trails or trails with windy, exposed viewpoints.
• I frequently carry my selfie stick tripod, which is great for solo travelers or taking couples shots at uncrowded overlooks—half of my hiking photos were taken with one of these, and it’s lightweight and easy enough to pack in your daypack.
• A quick-dry towel comes in handy for lunch breaks or drying off after swimming or trails with lots of waterfall spray (hello, Yosemite’s Mist Trail or Iceland’s Seljalandsfoss).
• If you’re planning a sunrise or sunset hike, a flashlight or headlamp is a must (these are also good to bring along just in case you’re ever out later than expected).
• I always carry my female urination device for longer routes with no restrooms (trust me—this really comes in handy when there’s not a lot of trail coverage too!).

Comfort & Convenience

When you’re hiking multiple days or transitioning from the trail to town, these comfort-focused extras can help you stay clean, organized, and feeling human—especially after those longer, muddier, or more strenuous hikes.

• Body wipes or shower wipes for staying fresh after sweaty hikes when showers aren’t nearby.
• A fresh set of clothes for changing after a long, muddy hike or in case you sweat through your workout gear.
• I like to take my hiking boots off after long hikes to give my feet a chance to breathe. Flip flops or sandals are great for walking around national parks or campsites after you’re done hiking for the day, and tennis shoes are nice for shorter, easier hikes.
• Chapstick and an overnight lip sleeping mask for chapped or sunburnt lips.
• Notebook and pen/pencil if you like journaling or noting trail details.

Navigation & Emergency Gear

Safety should always come first! Even on well-marked trails, conditions can shift fast. These safety essentials will help you stay oriented, respond to the unexpected, and feel more confident on remote or rugged hikes.

• Carry a paper trail map (in case your phone dies), take a picture of the trailhead signage, download AllTrails and offline Google maps, and bring a compass in case cell service is limited.
• Bring an emergency whistle in case you get lost or need to alert others.
• A lightweight, compact blanket for unexpected overnights or sudden weather changes.
• A multi-tool or knife for cutting, fixing gear, or other unexpected needs on the trail.

Items for Longer Road Trips

If you’re planning a road trip where you’ll be hiking day-in and day-out, you may want to consider some of these items to make life on the go a little more seamless and comfortable.

• We kept our RTIC Ultra-Tough Soft Cooler in the car throughout our Nevada, Utah, and Arizona road trip, and it definitely came in handy during those longer drives between parks!
• Keep phones, GPS units, and power banks charged on the go with a power inverter or car charger.
• Reusable utensils for picnic lunches or campsite dinners.
• A folding chair or seat pads can add comfort if you’ll be sitting at scenic viewpoints or trailheads.

From surprise weather and tricky trail navigation to staying comfy and getting that perfect photo, every item on this hiking packing list solves a real on-the-trail challenge.

The best part? You can easily adapt this list for any season, so you’re always ready for whatever the day throws your way.

Seasonal Hiking Packing List Add-Ons

While this core gear works year-round, your hiking packing list will need to adapt to the season.

Below are a few smart add-ons to help you stay safe, comfortable, and prepared whether you’re hiking through spring melt, summer heat, fall colors, or snowy, wintry trails.

Spring Hiking Add-Ons

Spring hikes are beautiful—but they can also be unpredictable. Expect muddy trails, snow patches, sudden weather shifts, and trail closures.

These items will help you stay dry, warm, and prepared for early-season conditions.

• Lightweight gloves and beanie or ear warming headband for chilly mornings.
• Extra pair of socks if trails are wet or slushy.
• Compact umbrella or poncho for unpredictable weather.

Summer Hiking Add-Ons

Heat exhaustion can sneak up fast, especially in the warmer temps of the summer season.

Start early to beat the heat, especially in places like Zion, Arches, and Valley of Fire, and pack along some of these extras to help you beat the heat and stay cool, hydrated, and protected.

• Cooling neck towel or bandana to keep cool.
• Extra water—3+ liters minimum for longer hikes.
• Hydration tabs, electrolyte chews, and extra salt (double up!).
• Light, breathable sun shirt or UPF clothing for extra sun protection.
• Wide-brim sun hat to shade your scalp and face.
• Lightweight mosquito net hat for buggy areas—this would’ve been nice on some of the hikes we did in Iceland!

Fall Hiking Add-Ons

Fall is one of the best seasons for hiking with cooler temperatures, colorful views, and fewer crowds. But, don’t be surprised by early snowfall or sudden temperature drops.

These essentials will help you stay warm, comfortable, and ready for changing conditions.

• Insulated vest or thicker fleece and a beanie or ear warming headband for extra warmth.
• Touchscreen gloves if you plan to take photos with your phone while bundled up.
• Thermos with a warm drink for long hikes (we loved this in the mornings in the Utah national parks!).

Winter Hiking Add-Ons

Winter hikes call for extra preparation, since even short trails can become challenging with snow, ice, and freezing temperatures.

While I haven’t done much winter hiking (aside from a few easy trails in Norway), I’ve relied on these cold-weather essentials in wintry destinations to stay warm, safe, and steady on icy terrain.

• Base layer (thermal top and bottom), insulated waterproof pants, and down or synthetic puffer jacket to bundle up in cold conditions.
• Warm hat, beanie or ear warming headband to help retain body heat.
• Touchscreen gloves and glove liners if you plan to take photos while bundled up.
• Neck gaitor for protection from the wind and cold.
• Waterproof boots with insulation—I wore these all throughout Norway, where we did a lot of walking, but they may not be as reliable for more intense hiking trails.
• Crampons for snowy or icy trails.
• Hand/toe warmers for extra warmth.
• Insulated water bottle to prevent freezing.

Important Hiking Tips

Before you head out, these quick reminders can help make your hike safer, easier, and more enjoyable.

These are the go-to tips I follow on every trail—no matter the destination or season.

• Check trail conditions before you go: Some high-elevation trails may still have snow or ice in the spring, and weather could change quickly, especially at high elevations, during rainy season, etc.
• Pack smart, not heavy: Every ounce matters on a long trail! The key is being prepared without weighing yourself down too much.
• Start early on busy trails and in the summer: It’s cooler, less crowded, and gives you a time buffer in case your hike takes longer than expected.
• Take breaks at key viewpoints: Look out for shaded benches or flat rocks to take a break, drink water, eat snacks, and recharge (your legs and your devices!).
• Know your limits: Consider stopping and turning back if needed.
• Layer up: Be ready to shed or add layers as temperatures change.
• Don’t forget bug protection: Especially in shaded forest trails or wet meadows.
• Test your gear beforehand: You definitely don’t want to break in new boots on the trail or realize your pack doesn’t fit mid-hike!
• Trail etiquette: Uphill hikers and horses have the right of way. Stick to designated trails, and don’t shortcut switchbacks—this speeds up erosion and can be very dangerous.
• Brush up on wildlife rules: Never feed or approach wildlife, secure food, dispose of trash properly, and remember that you’re sharing these trails with various wildlife (we saw a bear on one of our hikes in Yosemite!).
• Print copies of park permits and shuttle tickets: Just in case your phone dies or you don’t have cell service.
• Download offline maps to your phone: I mentioned this before, but this is especially important in remote hiking destinations like Capitol Reef, Big Bend, Iceland, etc.

Final Thoughts

Hiking in every season brings its own challenges—and rewards. Whether you’re headed to a waterfall trail in spring, a canyon rim in summer, or a snow-covered forest in winter, the right hiking packing list can help you stay safe, comfortable, and fully present for the experience.

Save this guide, customize it to your destination, and get ready to hit the trail feeling confident and prepared, no matter what the season!

Want another ready-made, curated hiking packing list? Check out my Amazon hiking gear list that has all of my favorite trail-tested essentials—from jackets and base layers to my go-to backpack and power bank.

Plan Your Next Hiking Adventure

Happy hiking!

XOXO Sara at Travel A-Broads

Sara Miller

Sara is the founder of and voice behind Travel A-Broads, a travel blog designed to empower women to explore the world boldly and safely.

A Sr. Manager of a Data Engineering team (aka math nerd) by day and travel enthusiast by night, Sara shares practical tips, curated itineraries, and inspiring stories from her adventures across 5 continents and 28+ countries and helps curious, independent women plan smarter, travel farther, and feel more connected along the way.

Read more about Sara’s journey here, and start planning your next adventure today!