5 Essentials for a Successful Hiking Trip

With spring and full bloom, the mountains and trails have been calling my name. If you’re new to hiking, there are a few things I think you should have in order to have a safe and successful experience. If I can be honest, my first few hikes I was under prepared, it wasn’t until I was deep within the mountains, or far out on the trail, before I realized this fact. To help you avoid this, I thought it would be cool to give you my top five essentials when I go hiking.

Check out my top 5 hiking essentials

• Hiking Pack
• Hiking Socks
• Hiking Shoes
• Water Vessel
• Protection

Hiking Essential #1: Hiking Backpack

First up on the list is, your backpack… We’ve got to have something to carry our goodies in right? While any backpack will work. There are backpacks made  specifically for the purposes of hiking. These backpacks will have a space inside where you can hold what’s called a water bladder. A water, bladder (or camel pack), is a vessel that holds a certain amount of water and is meant to replace a water bottle so that your hands can be free as you explore. Currently, my favorite backpack is my Cotopaxi pack. Not only do their bags come in a variety of sizes and vibrant colors… But each of their classic bags are unique because they are crafted from recycled fabrics that would have otherwise ended up in the landfill. Saving the planet while enjoying nature and practicing self-care is a practice you really can’t beat. 

I remember the first backpack I purchased, it was from the sporting good section of Walmart. I took that thing everywhere and it lasted years until I accidentally broke one of the straps on it. Ultimately, when choosing your backpack you want to be sure it has space for all the things you may need while being light weight yet durable. Be sure try it on, walk around with it, adjust the chest straps and get a good sense of how it feels on your body. Most hikes typically last hours so you want to be comfortable. This step is especially important if you are on the shorter side of life. As a woman who barely reaches the height of 4’11 it can be challenging for me to find backpacks that fit comfortably for my hikes.

#2: Let’s Talk About Socks Baby!!

The second hiking essential you want to get are socks… It’s such an underrated item!! As a woman who has a kick ass sock collection, I was one of those people that take to the trails in regular socks. Fortunately, I didn’t have to experience the effects that can accompany hiking in said socks. Blisters and open sores are never fun and can be a result of not wearing the right socks. Your feet are precious and should be highly protected when you hit the trails. Here are a few things to consider when looking for hiking socks.

• Compression
• Arch support
• Flexibility
• Natural fiber material
• Breathability

I was recently gifted a pair of ToughCutie socks and recommend them to everyone who will listen. I’ve tried several types of hiking socks, and none are like my ToughCuties. They have all the qualities I just mentioned plus they were created by a black woman who is passionate about equity and inclusion in outdoor spaces. I encourage you to add a pair or two to your sock collection. You won’t regret it!

Hiking Essential #3: Hiking Shoes

While we’re on the top of feet; let’s talk about shoes. Knowing how important our feet are, making sure you have a good pair of hiking boots/shoes is super important. Before my sister got me my Columbia boots I was hiking in my trustee Nikes. While they were great on the trails, and even did well in the snow, they helped me realize I do prefer footwear with ankle support. The obvious reasons of keeping my ankles align is the most important reason; but as I embark on more rugged hikes, and find myself deeper in the mountains, I am loving that I no longer have to worry about hitting my ankles on rocks. That shit hurts! Also; keep in mind, all hikes/trails wont need boots. If you can, I encourage you to get a good pair of trail shoes and a pair of hiking boots.

Just like when you’re shopping around for your backpack, you’ll want to try your boots on. Walk around in them so you can really good feel for how your feet will feel as you move. It also might be a good idea to get insoles. Just like you when you get a pair of new heels (assuming you wear them) wearing them around the house will help you break them in. This gives you the opportunity to see where things rub so you can return them if the boots aren’t the best fit for you after all.

#4: Hydration Pack

My next hiking essential on the list is your water vessel. As you probably know, staying hydrated while you’re outdoors is very important. Because of this I place a high value on finding the right water vessel to support your adventures; you have many options to choose from!! If you’re anything like me and tend to fall a lot while you’re hiking, water bottles may not be the best option for you. I am differently abled, so I always need be freehanded especially on more rugged hikes. Although my bladder typically last the entirety of my hikes, I do always bring an extra water bottle that stays in my backpack because one of my fears is getting lost in the woods. Should this ever happen… I’mma need my water! As you start searching for your water vessel, be sure to pay attention to your backpack capacity. This will let you know what size bladder can fit nice and snug inside your pack. 

Hiking Essential #5: Protection

The last hiking essential I have for you; but certainly not the least, is protection. Being outdoors you always want to do your research about the wildlife you couldn’t possibly encounter while hiking. This research will give you the knowledge you need to protect yourself in the event that you do cross paths with wildlife or even come across weird human beings.

Living in Colorado, I always take a can of bear spray, mace, a knife, and a mini taser with me. While I am all for caring a handgun, I do not take my when I go hiking. Remember when you are outdoors you are a visitor!! I like to shuffle my feet every so often and sing as I explore. This lets animals know I am coming and keeps them from getting startled. A scared animal; even if they are non predatory, can/will attack and seriously injure you. Keep your distance and never turn your back to any animal. Here in Colorado, MANY people have been attacked by Elk and Moose because they didn’t respect boundaries. Don’t be like those people!

There you have it, my list of must have for your next adventure. Below you will find a few additional items I like to take with me. Be sure to keep your eye out for part two and let me know a few essentials you’ll be taking on your next hike down in the comments. While you are out exploring remember to LEAVE NO TRACE!

Bonus Essentials!