20 items to take on your day hike

becca
Jun 9, 2020
5 min read

Covid has really been trying to put a damper on our upcoming trip. And by damper I mean completely cancel it. But fear not! We have found just about every way around it that we possibly can. I kind of feel like God is telling us we're not supposed to be going and we are just completely ignoring him...

BUT I also feel that I REALLY need this trip in my life. I NEED a week to be without cell service, enjoying the beautiful world that we live in with incredible family. So that's exactly what we plan on doing...safely of course. We will be taking all possible precautions...outside of simply not traveling. ;) #whoops

As our trip quickly approaches, I've been putting together my list of "must-haves" for our day hikes, making sure I'm not missing something. I thought I'd share the basics with you in case you have any similar trips in your future!

1. Hydration pack

Any will do, but I do suggest getting one with a little wiggle room so that you're able to fit all of the below items in it! Keep in mind that it's recommended that you drink at least .5 liters of water for every hour of moderate hiking, so having a hydration pack is key. Here is the one I got from Bass Pro Shops: Ascend Drift 33L Hydration Backpack

2. Packable rain jacket

You'll want to get one that can easily fit in your pack, that can be layered underneath and is also fairly breathable. Nothing is worse than a rain jacket that makes you feel sticky! Here is one very similar to mine from Columbia: OutDry Ex Blitz Rain Jacket

3. Hand sanitizer

Any brand will do! Just make sure you have some on hand. It's especially important in today's world, but even once we're past this, you'll want to include it in your bag. Lunches don't taste as good with dirt/sweat/grime in your fingernails!

4. Flashlight

Again, any brand. It may sound over-the-top, but you never know what could happen on a trail. You'll want to be able to find your way back if you, for some reason, get stuck out there past dark.

5. Granola and/or protein bars

These are always my go-to for a quick & sweet snack. I am gluten-free, so I love Kind bars. I think almost every flavor they have is GF. Obviously Cliff bars are also a great way to go for some added protein. You may want to stick several of these in your bag just-in-case.

6. Electrolyte packets

Hiking takes a lot out of you. So while adding protein is super important, so is replenishing your body's electrolytes. Don't get the sugary ones from your local grocery store - make sure you check your labels for no added sugar; that's not doing your body any good. I found these on Amazon and they taste pretty good AND with none of that added junk: Ultima Replenisher Electrolyte Hydration Powder

7. Hiking boots

You'll likely be wearing these on your hike (duhhh) but you want to make sure you invest in some good ones! Nothing is worse than getting blisters halfway through a 6+ mile hike. Here are the ones I have, and so far, so good: Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boot

8. Water shoes

A lot of hikes end in some body of water, and it can be nice to stick your toes in or wade around for a bit to cool off. If you have space in your back, bring along a pair of water shoes to make wading easier. I'm obsessed with Chacos and Tevas.

9. Hiking socks

You may think it isn't a big deal, but making sure you are wearing quality socks is SUPER important. Socks with wool or a wool-blend are great for hiking because they help to wick away sweat. Here are some from Ascend that seem to be pretty high quality: Ascend Hiker Quarter Socks for Ladies

10. Portable power pack

There are a ton out there, just make sure you get one that is compatible with your phone's charging cord. Again, it may seem dramatic, but you don't want to be stuck somewhere without access to your phone.

11. Bug spray

Nothing is worse than running into a swarm of mosquitos when there's no wind and it's 90 degrees. Pack that bug spray to give you some relief!

12. Aspirin

Hiking in elevations can lead to accelerated dehydration which can lead to headaches. Protect yourself even further by bringing along some aspirin.

13. SPF lip balm

I don't know about you, but I ALWAYS forget about my lips when I put on sunscreen. Don't! Burnt and chapped lips is the WORST! Here is my favorite SPF lip balm: Perfect Balm Sunscreen

14. Sunscreen

Same as the above...just like buring your lips, it is no fun to burn the rest of your body either. If you get burnt on your first trip, that's going to ruin all of the rest for you. Pack a quality sunscreen that is safe for both yourself and the environment. Here is the one I use: Perfect Sunscreen for Body

15. Sunglasses

You want to be able to protect your eyes just as much as your skin. Plus, sunglasses help you to see the sights even better. Don't worry about getting or bringing anything fancy; it always seems like I lose my "fancy" sunglasses first. Cheap ones will work just fine.

16. Ballcap

The easiest way to protect your scalp from the sun is with a ballcap. Plus, it adds a little bit of a cooling factor on those warmer hikes.

17. Nuts

A healthy alternative to chips and quite the appetite quencher! Nuts are packed with healthy fats and can help satisfy your craving. My favorite right now are pistachios and chocolate-covered almonds. YUM!

18. Survival wristlet

Again, may sound dramatic, but you may miss it if you don't have it! There are quite a few options out there, but we just have ones with a compass, fire starter and whistle. Here is something pretty similar: Paracord Survival Bracelet

19. Binoculars

To never miss out on any wildlife! Once you get to the top of your destination, use these to peak out over the cliffs to see if you can spot anything.

20. Bear spray

Duhhh! This may not be necessary on all hiking trips, but it definitely is for ours! Bears are seen pretty often in Glacier National Park and I will not be taking any chances!

There you have it! The 20 items I will be bringing on our day hikes in Glacier National Park and the surrounding areas. If you are an expert (or not) and feel like I'm missing something, please let me know in the comments! And wish us luck against the bears...yikes!

XOXO,

Unapologetically Blog

A place to be #unapologeticallyme