A day hike needs far less than people pack. This kit covers the trail and the city evening after, and none of it is specialist mountaineering gear.
The list
0 of 9 packed- Peak Design Everyday Backpack Zip 20LBags & Luggage
Keeps layers dry in drizzle, though 20L fills up fast once a jacket and bottle are in.
A packable rain shell for him that lives in the bottom of the day bag for uncertain forecasts.
The women's cut of the same shell: light, waterproof and packable.
- Nalgene 32 oz Wide Mouth BottleWater Bottles & Hydration
A tough, leak-proof 32 oz bottle that pairs with many water filters.
- THRIAID Mini First Aid Kit, 100 piecesHealth & Safety
A compact first-aid kit with the blister care and tape that hikes actually need.
- Sawyer 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent Lotion, 4 ozHealth & Safety
Picaridin repellent for mosquitoes and ticks that won't harm your sunglasses or camera.
- Peak Design Capture Clip V3Camera & Photo
Keeps a light camera on your pack strap and within reach on the trail.
- Boot Bananas Original Shoe DeodorizersFootwear & Shoe Care
Stops worn hiking shoes from making the rest of your bag smell.
- Aerotrunk Ultralight Compression Packing CubesBags & Luggage
Ultralight compression cubes that keep trail clothes and evening clothes apart.
How do you pack for day hikes on a trip?
Pack the day bag the night before, so an early start is just shoes and go. Water, a rain shell, a small first-aid kit and a snack cover most day hikes.
Keep trail clothes and evening clothes in separate cubes so nothing muddy touches what you'll wear to dinner.
How do you go from the trail to dinner?
Pick a day bag that looks fine in town, and you won't need a second one for the evening. A shell that packs into its own pocket works on the trail and on a rainy walk to dinner.
Shoe deodorizers stop worn hiking shoes from making the rest of your bag smell.
What should you leave at home for hiking?
Technical gear for routes you're not doing, like ropes, crampons or a full backpacking kit. Day hikes need very little.
Leave the big suitcase too. A carry-on and a day bag cover a trip like this.
Questions people ask
What should I pack for a day hike while traveling?
Water, a packable rain shell, a small first-aid kit, insect repellent and a snack, all in a day bag. Add sun protection and a layer for early starts.
Do I need hiking boots for day hikes?
Not always. Trail runners or sturdy walking shoes are fine on most marked day trails. Boots earn their weight on rough, rocky or wet ground.
How much water should I carry on a day hike?
It depends on heat, distance and whether you can refill on the way. A 32 oz bottle is a good base for a short hike, and carry more in hot weather.
Prices change often — the price on the retailer’s page is the one you pay.