10 Essentials for Backpacking, Hiking, and Outdoor Adventures

Katherine recommends that you always download or purchase a topographic map of the area before you head out, and always have a standard compass handy. GPS batteries can die, or you may be too far out of range to use your smartphone. We love this durable, easy-to-use compass in a powder-coated protective aluminum housing.

Sunglasses, proper clothing, and a strong sunblock are all necessary no matter what time of year it is. Clothes today have treatments for SPF as well, but even in the cold you’ll still want protection.

Tip: Check out our Travel Beauty Essentials video for our recommendations on SPF products!

“You need to have light layers in case you end up staying past when you expected, because nighttime temps can dip drastically,” Katherine explains. Here’s what we can showcase, as it is moisture wicking and odor resistant.

“Bring a headlamp, NOT A FLASHLIGHT,” warns Katherine, “because it helps you keep your hands free.” We recommend you try this one on for size.

Your first-aid kid should include all of the standard bells and whistles such as band aids and neosporin, but also have a bit of moleskin for the back of your heel to avoid blisters, and pertinent personal medication (including epi pens, blood pressure pills, etc.) Katherine showed us one of these kits by adventure medical.

Because, of course! Katherine recommends always having at least two ways to start a fire at the ready, so we recommend you bring both waterproof matches and lighter.

Leatherman tools like this one are an absolutely essential. (Murphy’s Law is a fickle one, isn’t she?) You will also want duct tape (for any last minute repairs, like your boot.) Instead of a whole roll, just wrap some around your water bottle and unwrap as needed.

Bring power bars and protein snacks that will help keep your energy up. Nuts and dried fruit are super light, and don't forget to pack a little extra in case you get lost.

For a shorter trip, bringing a nalgene water bottle (filled up, of course) will be plenty. However, if you are going for a few hours or more, you should consider packing an actual lightweight water filter that you can carry in case you end up staying longer than expected or get lost. Water filters like this one, as well as water purification tablets, are essential for trips lasting more than a few hours.

Any mylar or plastic lightweight shell (like this one) should always be in your backpack in the event of a surprise rain storm.