What to Bring on a Day Hike || REI

Summary

The video outlines essential items to bring on a day hike to stay safe if you end up being outdoors longer than planned. It covers the 10 hiking essentials like navigation tools, sun protection, first aid, emergency shelter and food, extra clothing, and other necessities. It also describes helpful additional gear like a pee rag, phone, GPS watch, and appropriate clothing. Planning ahead with an itinerary and checklist allows you to customize your pack to conditions and prevents forgetfulness about critical gear for an enjoyable, prepared hike.

Takeaways

• 😊 Always carry the 10 essentials - navigation tools, headlamp, sun protection, first aid kit, fire starter, shelter, food, water, extra clothes
• 👓 Bring navigation tools like a map and compass to avoid getting lost
• 🔦 Pack a headlamp in case you end up hiking when it gets dark
• ⛅️ Protect yourself from the sun with sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen
• 🩹 Carry a first aid kit for minor injuries
• 💧 Pack plenty of water and food in case your hike lasts longer than expected
• 🌡️ Choose clothes based on weather - fleece for cold, rain jacket if wet
• 📱 Bring your cell phone to take photos and for emergencies
• 🚽 Consider a pee rag instead of toilet paper to reduce waste
• 📝 Leave an itinerary with someone so people know where you are hiking

Q & A

What are the 10 essentials that one should bring on a day hike?

The 10 essentials for day hiking include: navigation tools like a map and compass, sun protection like sunglasses and a hat, first aid supplies, fire starters like matches, a knife, shelter like a space blanket, extra food and water, extra clothes, a personal hygiene kit, and a headlamp.

Why is proper navigation important for day hiking?

Proper navigation tools like maps, compass, and GPS help hikers stay on trail, know where they are, how far they have hiked, and how to get back safely. This is important in case conditions change or hikers get lost.

What type of clothing and footwear should one wear for day hiking?

Appropriate hiking clothing includes wicking t-shirts, quick-dry shorts or pants, durable hiking boots, and hiking socks. The exact items brought should depend on weather conditions.

Why is extra food and water an essential item for day hikes?

Even on short hikes, having extra food like energy bars and extra water is essential in case hikers end up on trail longer than expected or if other issues arise.

What should the contents of a day hiking first aid kit include?

A day hike first aid kit should include bandages, antibiotic ointment, medications like pain relievers and antihistamines, tweezers, medical tape, antiseptic wipes, gloves, and other basic medical supplies.

What is a pee rag and why does the narrator recommend bringing it?

A pee rag is a small reusable towel that can be used in place of toilet paper. It is more environmentally friendly and practical on trail than carrying toilet paper.

Why does the narrator recommend leaving gear like sandals and extra socks in your car?

Leaving extra gear in your car that you may want after your hike, like sandals, socks, coffee, etc. helps lighten your load on the trail.

Why is an itinerary and communication plan important for day hiking?

Leaving a copy of your hiking plans with someone and in your car helps people know where to look if you don't return on time from your hike.

What extra gear might be needed for winter day hiking?

For winter day hiking extra gear like microspikes, snowshoes, heavier insulation layers, hand/foot warmers, etc. may be needed depending on conditions.

Where can someone find a helpful day hiking checklist?

The video creator mentions a helpful customizable day hiking checklist in the description of the YouTube video.