What Do You Carry in a Hiker's Backpack?

A day hike provides stimulation for both the mind and body. Like everything else in life, however, a proper hike requires a little planning. The average hiking backpack contains a multitude of pockets. Stuffing these pockets with a careful selection of items contributes to a safe and enjoyable hike.

  1. Food and Water

    • Food and water mean energy for the body. Plan to include in your backpack enough food and water for the hike plus an extra day's ration. The extra ration provides back-up nutrition in the event of an emergency or other change of plans. Prepackaged snacks and meals, such as energy bars and dried fruits, take up relatively little space inside your backpack and require no preparation. Make space in your backpack for a water bottle. Bottles with filtration systems allow water to be collected on the trail and consumed safely. During a vigorous day's hike, plan on drinking 4 to 5 quarts of water to stay hydrated.

    Navigation

    • The woods present a navigational challenge to even the most experienced of hikers. To ensure you're on track, pack a navigational system in your backpack. Handheld GPS receivers provide a bearing at the push of button. Likewise, in knowledgeable hands, a compass and topographic map offer vital information for accurate navigation. Both systems fit comfortably inside a backpack.

    Clothing

    • Despite reports of blue skies, the weather can change suddenly. Insulated, waterproof jackets provide an extra layer of clothing in the event of sudden cool or damp weather. An extra pair of socks and underwear offer a refreshing change after an unexpected rain storm or trek across a stream. Choose the material and thickness of your extra clothing based on the season. Roll the surplus clothing into a tight ball for convenient storage inside your backpack.

    Medical

    • At home, sudden scrapes and bruises mean a trip to the medicine cabinet. When hiking, bring the cabinet with you. Pre-packaged first-aid kits contain an assortment of ointments and wraps that provide relief for common maladies. Choose the size of the kit, and the number of supplies contained within, based on the duration of your hike. Basic items will include adhesive bandages and tape, gauze pads and antibiotic ointment. Augment the kit with any medications you might require. Stow the kit inside one of the side pockets of your backpack.

    Emergency

    • When you're alone on a hike, even a sprained ankle becomes a potential emergency. Pack for the unexpected. Waterproof matches mean fire on a cold night. A multi-tool contains everything from pliers to a knife, perfect for stripping bark for tinder or shredding a T-shirt for bandages. Include a whistle in the pack; cell phones don't always work in the woods. If you are lost or injured, use the whistle to grab attention.