Whether you're doing a day hike in the Peak District or a week-long trek in the Alps, packing correctly is a safety issue as much as a comfort one. The wrong footwear, insufficient layers, or a missing first aid kit can turn a great hike into a dangerous situation. This list covers everything; use the AI generator to personalise it to your specific trail, duration, and fitness level.
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Personalise for Free →Waterproof hiking boots that are already broken in — never wear new boots on a long hike. The boot should support your ankle and have a grippy Vibram-type sole. For summer day hikes on good paths, trail runners are increasingly popular and lighter than boots. Always wear proper hiking socks — cotton socks cause blisters.
A minimum of 2 litres for a day hike in temperate conditions — more in hot weather or on steep terrain. The rule of thumb is 500ml per hour of hiking. On multi-day hikes or remote trails, carry water purification tablets or a filter in case you need to use stream water.
The classic 10 essentials: navigation (map and compass), sun protection (sunscreen and hat), insulation (extra layers), illumination (head torch), first-aid supplies, fire (lighter or matches), repair tools and knife, nutrition (extra food), hydration (extra water), and emergency shelter (bivvy bag). Never go on a hike without all 10.
Always tell someone your planned route, trailhead location, expected return time, and what to do if you haven't checked in by a certain time (e.g. call mountain rescue). This is not just good practice — it has saved lives. Many mountain rescue incidents involve walkers who told nobody where they were going.