Day Hiking Essentials

We've been day hiking for more than 25 years in the Blue Ridge Mountains, and even today we're usually out on a trail on the weekends.  Along the way have learned what day hiking gear is essential to bring, and which gear isn't.  

This guide will help you figure out what to bring on a hike, and more specifically a day hike.  Longer distance and multi-day hikes require alot more hiking gear.

Coming prepared for a day hike in the Blue Ridge Mountains is very different than preparing for an overnight hike.  But with a few essentials, you can pack lightly, be comfortable, avoid injury and most importantly, have a great day out in the Blue Ridge Mountains!

Let's jump in and learn how to pack for a day hike!

Before you hike

One of the key steps you'll want to take before hitting the trail is to research the area you'll be hiking and the trails.  This includes:

• Reading trail guides
• Watching trail videos
• Purchasing or downloading trail maps or using a trail-map app that works offline for your phone.

We prefer hard copy trail maps, and in particular the ones that have a protective cover, so they don't get ruined by the elements.  You can purchase these at your local hiking store or on Amazon.

Important - ALWAYS let someone know where you will be hiking and what time you expect to return.  That way if you don't return on time, that person can call the appropriate authorities.  This is a critical pre-hiking step that you should always take care of, it could save your life.

Day Hiking Checklist

We're going to jump into our recommended list of what to bring on day hike below, but first here is a simple check list you can use as you prepare to head out on the trail to make sure you have everything.  You'll want to customize this list to suit your needs.

Proper Footwear for Day Hiking

Wearing proper footwear is absolutely crucial for a safe and enjoyable day hike in the Blue Ridge Mountains.  In fact, out of all of these items, wearing quality footwear is the most important.  Sneakers and tennis shoes just don't cut it.

The terrain here in the mountains can be rocky and uneven, and hiking in inappropriate shoes can lead to blisters, sprained ankles, or worse.   You'll want to opt for a pair of sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with ankle support. Trail shoes may be suitable for shorter hikes with mild terrain, but they may not provide enough support for longer or more challenging hikes.

When you aren't sure how the terrain will be, it's always a safe option to wear hiking boots instead of hiking shoes.

Brands we have personally used many times on the trail and feel offer excellent quality and durability at a reasonable price include:

• Oboz - These are higher end boots, that literally fit like a glove.  They are incredibly comfortable and durable.
• Keen - Very high quality and comfortable, and a little less pricey than Oboz.  Keen offer excellent shoes for those with small feet.
• Merrell - As well known brand name offering high quality boots and shoes that are easy to find, comfortable and durable.

Necessary Clothing For Day Hiking - Dressing in Layers

Choosing the right clothing for your day hike in the Blue Ridge Mountains is essential for your comfort and safety.  You can see in the photo above that Jenn and I are wearing all "stay dry" hiking gear, with our hiking boots, and Jenn is even layered.

Always dress in layers, so you can easily adjust your clothing as you warm up or cool down throughout the day. The temperatures here in the mountains can fluctuate quickly.

Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep you dry and comfortable, even if you sweat. Add an insulating layer, such as a fleece jacket or vest, for warmth. A waterproof and wind-resistant outer layer, such as a rain jacket, is also essential, as weather conditions can change quickly in the mountains.  Be sure to use a rain jacket that "breaths".

Wear breathable, moisture-wicking and comfortable hiking pants or shorts with pockets for storing essentials like a map, compass, snacks, a pocket knife, etc. 

Avoid cotton if at all possible, as it does not do well in the mountains.  Cotton gets wet, either through rain, damp air, or your body sweat.  Once wet, it wicks heat from your body, and in harsh conditions can quickly cause hypothermia.

"Stay-dry" moisture wicking clothing, with SPF protection is the way to go.  This includes underclothing.  Chaffing for men and women is a real problem when hiking and can turn your wonderful hiking trip into a miserable experience.  

For Men:

1. Men's underwear - Exofficio Men's Give-N-Go Boxer Brief - Tight fitting, stay dry, light, and comfortable.
2. Shirts - There are hundreds of different stay-dry shirts on the market.  Which shirt is best is really personal preference, but I (Larry), prefer Columbia and Under Armour.  I prefer wearing bright colors, to make myself easier to spot in the event of an emergency.
3. Shorts/Pants - My goto summer hiking shorts are a pair of Eddie Bauer Rainer shorts, but there are many other really great brands including Columbia Silver Ridge Cargo Shorts which I also like.   When temps are cooler and vary more, I wear a pair of Eddie Bauer convertible pants.  These are great as you can just zip the legs off when you get hot or if you need to wade any creeks.  
4. Socks - Socks are another item you don't want to "skimp" on.  Socks have a direct impact to how comfortable your feet are when hiking.   Darn Tough Light Hikers are about as good as it gets.

For Women:

1. Women's Undergarments - ExOfficio Women's Bikini Briefs and Sports Bras
2. Shirts -  Jenn wears a number of different "stay dry"/moisture wicking shirts, but her favorites are by Columbia.
3. Shorts/Pants - Columbia Women's Cargo Shorts - They are light weight, nylon and have lots of pockets.    For convertible pants Columbia Women's Convertible Pants are perfect.
4. Socks - Jenn prefers standard thin athletic socks, like Hanes Women`s Cool and Dry Women`s Ankle  Socks.  She doesn't like for her feet to get hot.

Neither one of us wear hats, but I do sweat a lot and carry cheap cotton bandanas with me to wrap around my head and to use for many other purposes as well.  I cannot tell you how often these come in handy when out on the trail.

What to bring on a Day Hike Video

Day Pack

Appropriate shoes and clothing are the most important and essential items for your hike, but there are other items like food, water and supplies you'll need to carry along with you.   You'll need something to carry all of this gear in, which is when a lightweight day pack fits the bill.

When we hike, we each generally carries 2-3 bottles of water, some spare socks and whatever other items they want to bring, like small cameras, flashlights, snacks, bandanas, first aid kit, toiletries, etc.

Camera Backpack

One thing we've learned is NEVER forget your camera.  This is particularly true when running a website and writing up hiking guides ... but we digress ...

We have never been on a hike and not wanted to get a photo of something or someone.  

So make sure you bring your camera.

If you have a small camera, and little to no gear, the Daypack we mentioned above will work fine.   However, if you're like us, and have a camera, multiple lens, filters, flash, batteries, lights, a tripod, cleaners, and so on ... a dedicated Camera Backpack is the best option.

Food and Water for a Day Hike

Staying hydrated and keeping your energy levels up while on the trail is critical, even while on a short day hike.    This is particularly true during the warmer summer months where humidity levels and temperatures can be high in the Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains.  

We typically pack 2-3 bottles of water per person.  

Many of the creeks and streams in the Blue Ridge Mountains are crystal clear, but don't be tempted to drink the water! While it's probably safe, don't risk drinking it straight from the creek.   If you want to drink creek or stream water, always boil it first or use a filter, like the Sawyer water filter (which we keep in our pack at all times). 

We also carry the snacks with us, in our day pack.  Things like trail mix, protein bars, snickers candy bars, peanut butter crackers, beef jerky, and other items we all like.   You'll want high carb/high protein items, as hiking burns lots of calories.  Salt is also good, as it helps you stay hydrated.

We store all of the food in ziplock bags, so the smell doesn't attract any wildlife, especially black bears.  We also bring an extra ziplock bag to store any trash or wrappers for the same reason.  You can also use drawstring or fold-over "ditty bags".

Rain Gear

The weather in the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains is incredibly unpredictable.   In can be clear and warm one minute, and pouring rain and cold a few minutes later.   After getting soaked a few times, we now carry along waterproof and wind-resistant outer layer, such as a rain jacket.

We recommend spending a little extra here.  Hiking in plastic based or rubber based rain gear gets pretty miserable quickly.   These less expensive rain protection products don't allow your clothing to breath, and trap moisture and heat inside the jacket or pants.   This makes you hot, sweaty and sticky.

Instead, purchase products with waterproof nylon based material or even better, Goretex.   Goretex is by far the best material, but it's expensive.  Also be sure to purchase a product that folds-up or rolls-up small to take up less space in your day back.

Multitool

A multi-tool is a versatile and essential tool to bring when hiking because it can be used in a variety of situations on the trail. A multi-tool typically includes a knife, pliers, screwdrivers, wire cutters, and other tools that can come in handy in many different scenarios.

Here are just a few reasons why you should consider a multi-took as a day hike essential:

• Emergency situations: In an emergency situation, a multi-tool can be a lifesaver. For example, if you get lost or stranded on the trail, a multi-tool can be used to create/build a shelter or to start a fire for warmth and signaling for help.
• Repairs: A multi-tool can be used to make quick repairs to your gear or clothing. If your backpack, tent, or sleeping bag needs a quick fix, a multi-tool can help you get the job done.
• Food preparation: If you plan to cook food on the trail, a multi-tool can be used to cut, slice, or open food packaging.
• First aid: A multi-tool can also be used for minor first aid situations, such as removing splinters, cutting tape or gauze, or opening packages of medication.
• General use: Even if you don't encounter any emergency situations on the trail, a multi-tool can still be useful for general tasks such as opening cans or bottles, tightening screws, or cutting rope or cord.

When choosing a hiking multi-tool select one that is lightweight and compact. Many are very heavy.  Also, make sure the tool includes a knife, pliers, and screwdrivers. 

Emergency and Safety Gear

Many fail to take hiking here in the mountains seriously, and well, the results are unfortunately not good.  While you probably won't ever have one, you'll always want to be prepared for an emergency situation, and in particular one where you might get stuck spending the night out on the trail due to weather or getting lost.

First Aid Kit

We've never had to use one, A first aid kit is an essential item to pack for any outdoor adventure, including day hiking.  Basic first aid supplies, such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze, and adhesive tape, can help treat minor injuries or cuts. Additionally, include medications, such as pain relievers, antihistamines, and anti-inflammatory drugs, in case of emergency.

Definitely something you want to carry in your day pack.  We made our own, to make it a bit smaller, but the link has a nice one, in a hard case, that is perfect for your pack.

Emergency Shelter

In case of an unexpected change in weather or a delay in returning to the trailhead, an emergency shelter, such as a lightweight tent can provide necessary protection from the elements. It's always better to be over prepared than underprepared, so pack an emergency shelter even if you don't think you'll need it.  They are small, lightweight and inexpensive.   

Emergency Blanket

Emergency hiking blankets, also known as emergency blankets or space blankets, are lightweight and compact sheets of material designed to reflect and retain body heat. They are typically made of a thin layer of Mylar or other reflective material that is heat-sealed to form a waterproof and windproof barrier. 

In emergency situations, such as getting lost on the trail or encountering unexpected weather conditions, an emergency hiking blanket couple with an emergency shelter can provide essential warmth and protection from the elements. The reflective material helps to reflect up to 90% of a person's body heat back towards them, effectively preventing heat loss and helping to maintain body temperature. Additionally, emergency blankets can also be used as a makeshift shelter, rainfly, or ground cloth.

Headlamp and/or Flashlight

Even if you plan to finish your hike before dark, it's essential to pack a headlamp or flashlight in case of unexpected delays or emergencies. Make sure to pack extra batteries or a rechargeable power bank to ensure your light source doesn't die during your hike.

Things happen, sometimes you don't pay attention to the time, get turned around, or perhaps you get delayed by weather.  You do not want to be out on the trail in the middle of the woods in the dark, with no light source.   

Other Essential Items for Day Hiking

We also carry a few other items that we've learned (the hard way) to bring with us:

1. Toilet Paper/Tissue - In a small ziplock bag, we carry both tissues and a some toilet paper.  In that same bag, we carry some hand sanitizer as well.  You just never know when you might need it, especially on longer hikes.   If you use it, don't leave it on the ground like we've seen many people do, bring an extra zip lock bag to put your used toilet paper in.    Always leave no trace.
2. Bandanas - When hiking , you really just can't have enough of these.  We carry 4 with us, and end up using all 4 every single time.   They are great for controlling sweat, as napkins, for cleaning off gear, good to eat on to keep from spilling items, backup toilet paper, and the list goes on ... one of the best items you can bring along with you.
3. 2 Lighters - On a day hike, you'll most likely never need these, but I carry two, just in case.  Why 2?  In case one doesn't work.   Yes, I was a boy scout .... "Be Prepared"
4. Sunscreen - Protect yourself from the the sun, especially when hiking in open areas or above the tree lines.