Day Hike Essentials

I found out very early on when trying to ascend Slide Mountain in the Catskills with a water jug between six people and our favorite four legged friend Charlie in tow, that a pleasant, moderate hike can go from pleasant and moderate to strenuous and stressful very quickly depending on your group's experience level and preparation. It's sometimes hard to shed the mindset that what you need can be easily purchased along the way, but there aren't always supplies available for purchase. The last thing you want to be doing is driving around in search of water and sunscreen when you really want to be hitting the trail.

The following is a list of essentials for any day hike over a couple hours that I've adapted from some internet research and talking to a few more experienced hikers along the trail route. If you have more than one person you can split some of the gear like bug spray, first aid kit etc. Use your judgment based on where you're going and for how long, but most of all everyone should have their own water supply!

The Daypack:

You should find a daypack that feels comfortable with a 10-15lbs load. Outside water bottle pockets or a Camelback insert are a necessity as you don't want to be carrying anything in your hands. The front straps should fit comfortably when adjusted so they stabilize the load you're carrying (you don't want to be constantly adjusting) Mesh zip pockets on the hip straps are also helpful for carrying snacks like trail mix, powerbars etc.


In the Daypack:
  • 2 Quarts water per person in reusable water bottles
  • Snacks 
    • We always carry my husbands home-made trail bars, keep reading for the recipe!
  • Lunch if you're planning on being out for 4 hours+
  • Sunglasses
  • Hat
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect Repellent
  • Tissues or towelettes
  • Purell or other hand sanitizer
  • First Aid Kit with the essentials (there are a lot of pre-packed kits out there, make sure you look at the contents first, some are more comprehensive then others)
    • Disinfectant
    • Neosporin 
    • Band aids
    • Tylenol
    • Gauze and Tape
    • Ace Bandage and Pins
  • Small Flashlight (Weather or not you plan on being out after dark)
  • Small plastic bag for trash
  • Trail Map
  • Compass
  • Whistle (to signal for help just in case!)
Clothing:

Dress in layers no matter what the season you will warm up and get cooler very quickly and there's no reason to be uncomfortable.
  • T-shirt as a base layer, preferably with moisture wicking fabric
  • Good breathable pants that don't chaif or pinch and have some stretch, jeans are not the best option. You may want to double layer in winter or wear snow pants.
  • Rain Jacket, as well as a long sleeve shirt, hoody or sweater, no matter what the weather report is.They should stuff easily into your pack when not in use, so keep it light!
Footwear:
  • A good pair of hiking boots that cover your ankles for support and have good traction.
  • Well broken in sneakers are ok for easier hikes where the terrain is smooth
  • Hiking socks, I prefer double layered hiking socks like Wright Sock to prevent blisters.
For the Dogs:
  • Kibble of choice
  • Extra water and a bowl
    And of course your camera!

    Please be responsible and follow the "Leave No Trace" Principles of Outdoor Ethics:

    Plan Ahead and Prepare | Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces | Dispose of Waste Properly | Leave What You Find | Minimize Campfire Impacts | Respect Wildlife | Be Considerate of Other Visitors


    For more information and more information on the principles you can visit the following link:

    Leave No Trace 
    (http://www.lnt.org/programs/principles.php)
    The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics is an educational, nonprofit organization dedicated to the responsible enjoyment and active stewardship of the outdoors by all people. worldwide.

    Recipe for Trail Bars: 
    (Originally adapted from a Recipe for Breakfast Bars at wholeliving.com)

    • 1 tablespoon walnut oil, plus more for pan
    • 1 1/4 cups spelt or wheat flakes
    • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
    • 1/4 cup white raisins 
    • 1/4 cup coarsely chopped pecans
    • 2 tablespoons coarsely chopped pistachios
    • 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds.
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 cup maple syrup (The real deal, preferably organic, no Aunt Jemima)
    • 1/4 cup fresh ground peanut butter (We like Whole foods honey nut)
    • 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
    1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees Brush an 8-by-8-inch baking dish with oil. Line bottom and two sides with parchment paper, leaving a 2-inch overhang on each side. Brush paper with oil. In a bowl, combine flakes, cranberries, raisins, pecans, pistachios, sunflower seeds and salt; set aside.
    2. In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, peanut butter, oil, and vanilla. Cook over medium until melted. Add to dry ingredients and stir to combine. Transfer mixture to prepared pan; smooth top. Bake until golden and edges pull away from sides of pan, 20 to 25 minutes. Cool completely in pan. Using paper overhang, lift bars out of pan. On a cutting board, cut into 8 pieces using a serrated knife. Store in an airtight container, separating pieces with wax or parchment paper, for one week.

    Here's some other pack lists I've come across but I'd love to expand the links so send in your suggestions!:
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