Not sure how to prepare for your hike? Everyone’s been there. There’s a lot to account for, and one mistake could mean a bad hike - the decision paralysis gets real.

However, the best decisions are the most informed ones, and below, we’ll help you understand how you pack smart so that when you hike, it’s an experience, not an inconvenience. 

Let’s get into how to get the most out of your ultralight hiking pack with careful, intentional preparation.

Preparing For Day Hikes

No one likes a weather crisis - especially one they’re not prepared for. On trails, the weather can be as fickle as your footing. Checking up with the local forecasts for your trail region and packing accordingly is solid, but you might want to pack a bit extra, just for safety.

A 30L ultralight hiking pack is spacious, so use every inch. Some key essentials to bring along are:

Rain gear - Sunny skies and clear forecasts? That’s reassuring! So is having a rain jacket in the one in a million chance that it does rain. It can protect you from colds, stave off water damage from your equipment, and keep you dry! Any comfortable trekking backpack would have ample room for it.

Sun protection: You don’t want to be out hiking while risking UV damage. An SPF30 sunscreen, hats, and glasses can prevent unnecessary sun damage. You should ideally have something to keep you cool during peak temperatures as well.

Moisture-wicking clothing:  Expecting intense humidity? Nothing saves hikers on the trail like bringing moisture-wicking fabrics along. They’re designed to pull sweat away from your skin and move it to the surface of the fabric where it evaporates faster, helping you chafe less, keep dry, and regulate temperature.

This goes for whether you’re planning for a day or overnight hike, but there are some overnight-specifics that are important to mention. 

Overnight Hike Essentials: Gearing Up Smart

You’ll need more than just your tent and the cooking gear you got when you went to shop for survival stones online.

When you prepare for an overnight hike, you want:

Backup Power: You don’t want to be disconnected from the world out in the wild. Having a power bank is essential, even if you’re looking for some phone-free time in nature. 

Headlamp/Flashlights: Your phone light won’t cut it, and you’ll need the battery anyway. It’s a good idea to invest in a headlamp. We prefer this because it frees up your hands, but a heavy-duty flashlight is a close second. When you shop for comfortable trekking backpacks, make sure to toss in a light source or two.

Maps/Compasses: In the event you lose access to your phone, you’ll want a way to get your bearings. Keeping a compass or map handy ensures you always know where you are and where you’re going.  

Insect repellent: If you plan to get any kind of good sleep in the woods, you’ll be thankful you brought this. Don’t underestimate the hoards of bugs out there. 

Must-Have Extras for Every Hike

Some items simply are good to bring along, regardless of the kind of hike you have planned. Some general must-haves are: 

Satellite communicator: If you do lose access to your phone, you want this in arm’s reach. It’s designed for adventurers venturing into areas with no service, and it’s just 99 grams.

Antibacterial medication: Getting cuts and scrapes out in the wild is almost a given. Some Neosporin can be the difference between a small nick and an infection.

Painkillers: Stiffness, soreness, and muscle aches are all too common. While ultralight hiking packs help a lot in reducing it, natural strain accumulates. Some aspirin can get you back in hiking shape. 

Travel Safe & Smart With Light Hiking Gear (Formerly AARN USA)

Preparing for a hike doesn’t have to be overwhelming. As long as you follow some essentials, ensure you have a comfortable trekking backpack, and do your research, you’ll have everything you need to make it out there. 

And if you ever want additional gear like trekking poles and tents, or to buy comfortable trekking backpacks, you can always reach out to us at Light Hiking Gear (Formerly AARN USA) for superior service.

Call us today, and let’s get you travelling with the best gear!