Essential Items to Pack When You Go Hiking!

Whether you are planning on going on a short or long hike, it's good to be prepared. Here is a list of the essentials I bring with me when my family and I go out for a day of exploring.

Hiking List:

Water bottle - When hiking for short or long distances, this is the most important thing you can bring. You need to stay hydrated.

Hiking Boot Insoles - Nothing stops a hike quicker, than tired, sore feet. A great way to keep your feet feeling comfortable and supported are with hiking boot insoles that have Dynamic Arch Technology. With cushioning to absorb shock and anti-slip features, you will have more confidence for uneven terrain and downhill descents. Start your hike with them already in your shoes and your feet will be thanking you. They will also help to extend the life of your favorite hiking boots, saving you money as well.

Snacks - As you hike, you will be using a lot of energy, and you need to fuel yourself with some snacks that will fill you up and give you the energy you need to keep going. Protein bars are a great source of fuel.

First Aid Kit - Always a good idea to pack a first aid kit. Hopefully you won't need it and you will have a fun and easy hike. And hey, if you have it, you usually don't need it... but if you don't have it, you wish you did. It's always good to have it handy.

Cellphone - Make sure your cellphone is fully charged before you go out on any hike, even if it's short. Your cellphone not only can act as a lifeline, but also double as a flashlight if it starts to get dark. Plus, you'll need it for capturing those epic views! :)

Battery Bank - This is just in case you are going out on longer hikes. A battery bank is a great way to charge your electronics on the go.

Sunscreen - It's important to protect yourself from the sun's rays. There's nothing less fun than feeling yourself getting fried while out for a hike and dealing with the discomfort of a sunburn for the next week.

Hat - A great way to shield your head and your eyes from the sun.

Waterproof Jacket - The forecast could be looking like clear skies when you head out on your hike, but then all of a sudden, the rain starts. It happens, and having a waterproof jacket on, or stored in your bag, will keep you nice and dry.

Insect Repellent - Depending on where you are going, some places are more prone to pesky bugs. Don't let your fun time be dampened by having mosquitos or pesky gnats bothering you.

Emergency Whistle - A whistle is a great accessory to have strapped to your bag, or in your pocket. Blowing a whistle will notify people around you, that there is someone in distress.

Sunglasses - In any season, sunglasses are important for a hike. The sun's rays are strong in the summer and reflection off snow in the winter can be blinding without them.

Sling Bag / Backpack - For shorter hikes, I love to bring my sling bag. It can hold all my necessary items for an adventure out with the fam. Longer hikes, we pull out the backpack. We can store a lot more and everything is conveniently packed together in one handy location.

Happy Hiking!