My Go-To Hiking Essentials 🥾
Posted by JODY HUDSON
My Go-To Hiking Essentials 🥾
Trail-Tested Favorites for Every Outdoor Adventure
Published by Prairie Life Co.
Whether you're heading out for a quick morning walk, exploring a new mountain trail, or spending the weekend in the backcountry, having the right gear can make all the difference.
After countless hikes, I've found myself reaching for the same essentials every single time. These are the items I never leave home without—keeping me comfortable, organized, and ready to enjoy every step of the journey.
If you're building your own hiking kit, here's my go-to list.
1. A Comfortable Hiking Backpack 🎒
A comfortable backpack is the foundation of every great hike. Whether you're packing extra layers, snacks, or emergency supplies, having a lightweight backpack with supportive straps makes carrying everything much easier.
I always look for a backpack that has:
✔ Comfortable shoulder straps
✔ Multiple storage pockets
✔ Room for water and snacks
✔ Lightweight construction
✔ Durable material for every season
The right backpack should feel like part of your adventure—not something you're constantly adjusting.
2. An Insulated Water Bottle 💧
Staying hydrated is one of the easiest ways to make every hike more enjoyable.
An insulated water bottle keeps drinks cold on hot summer hikes and warm during chilly mornings. I always pack more water than I think I'll need—especially on longer mountain trails.
Hydration may not be exciting, but it's one of the most important hiking essentials you can bring.
3. A Cozy Hiking Hoodie 🌲
Mountain weather changes quickly.
One minute you're hiking in sunshine, and the next you're standing in a cool breeze at the summit.
That's why I always bring my favorite hiking hoodie.
Our Find Me Outside Hoodie was designed in-house by Prairie Life Co. for people who feel most at home on the trail.
Featuring a small left chest design and a large vintage-inspired back graphic, it's the perfect layer for:
- Morning hikes
- Campfire evenings
- Mountain viewpoints
- Weekend camping trips
- Everyday adventures
👉 Shop the Find Me Outside Hoodie
4. A Comfortable Hiking Hat 🧢
A good hiking hat keeps the sun off your face and helps you stay comfortable on long trails.
Whether you're hiking through alpine meadows or shaded forests, a lightweight hat is something you'll appreciate all day long.
Bonus: It also saves your hair on those windy summit days!
5. Polarized Sunglasses 😎
Bright mountain sunlight can be surprisingly intense.
Polarized sunglasses help reduce glare from lakes, snow, and rocky terrain while making every view even more beautiful.
They're one of those items you don't think about—until you forget them.
6. Quality Hiking Socks 🧦
Never underestimate a good pair of hiking socks.
Comfortable socks help prevent blisters, wick away moisture, and keep your feet comfortable during long days on the trail.
A quality pair of hiking socks can honestly make or break an adventure.
7. A Friendship Bracelet 💜
This one isn't essential—but it makes me smile every time I wear it.
Whether it's a handmade bracelet from a friend or something that reminds you of a special trip, little personal touches make outdoor adventures even more meaningful.
Sometimes the smallest things become your favorite memories.
8. A Wildflower Journal 🌼
One of my favorite parts of hiking is slowing down enough to notice the little things.
Bringing a small journal lets me sketch wildflowers, record trail names, write down favorite viewpoints, or simply remember where I explored that day.
Every hike becomes part of your story.
9. A Map & Compass 🗺️
Technology is amazing—but batteries don't last forever.
Even on well-marked trails, carrying a paper map and compass adds peace of mind.
It's always better to have them and not need them than the other way around.
10. Citronella Bug Spray 🦟
If you've ever hiked in the summer, you already know why this made the list.
Bug spray helps you spend less time swatting mosquitoes and more time enjoying the scenery.
A small travel-sized bottle fits easily into any backpack.
11. Trail Mix 🥜
Every hike deserves good snacks.
Trail mix is lightweight, easy to pack, and provides the energy you need for longer adventures.
My favorite mix includes:
- Almonds
- Cashews
- Dried cranberries
- Pumpkin seeds
- Dark chocolate pieces
It never lasts long!
Why I Always Pack These Hiking Essentials
One of the best things about hiking is that you don't need a ton of expensive gear.
With just a few reliable essentials, you'll be prepared for everything from peaceful forest walks to challenging mountain trails.
The goal isn't having the newest equipment—it's having gear that helps you enjoy the outdoors more comfortably.
Every adventure starts with taking that first step.
Complete Your Hiking Outfit 🌿
If you're looking for comfortable outdoor apparel inspired by hiking, camping, and life outside, explore the Prairie Life Co. Hiking Collection.
Our apparel is designed in-house in Canada for outdoor lovers who would rather be on the trail than anywhere else.
Happy Hiking!
Whether you're exploring your favorite local trail or setting off on a brand-new adventure, I hope this hiking essentials checklist helps you get outside more often.
See you on the trail! 🌲🥾
