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How to Pack for a Day Hike

You don't need much for a day hike.

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    Difficulty:
    Easy

    Instructions

    Things You'll Need

    • Snack Foods
    • First Aid Kits
    • Moleskin
    • Sunscreen
    • Backpacks
    • Compasses
    • Plastic Water Bottles
      • 1

        Get a small backpack - the smaller the better. Otherwise, items tend to fill the available space.

      • 2

        Pack water in a strong, resealable plastic bottle. You will need at least a quart for a day-long walk.

      • 3

        Bring snacks. In general, fruit, nuts and candy are cheaper than energy bars.

      • 4

        Pack suntan lotion in an easily accessible pocket.

      • 5

        Put a compass in the bag for orienting yourself to your map.

      • 6

        Pack a map in a shirt pocket or outside pocket of your bag.

      • 7

        Place a light coat in the back wall of the bag to form a cushion between your back and the bag's other contents.

      • 8

        Bring your lunch and any utensils, if applicable, in plastic, and then put the plastic in the bag.

      • 9

        Pack a small first-aid kit.

    Tips & Warnings

    • A sturdy book bag should be more than sufficient for a day hike. If it isn't, you are bringing too much stuff.

    • Bring some moleskin for blisters.

    • Bring water, even on a cold day.

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    Comments

    • ww10443 Jul 02, 2009
      Bring a headlamp, flashlight, or wind-up dynamo light in case you get caught in the dark.
    • Terria Fleming Apr 30, 2008
      Good article, informative and interesting. Here in Oregon we always know the weather can change fast so we usually bring a coat even in the summer.
    • Terria Fleming Apr 30, 2008
      Good article, informative and interesting. Here in Oregon we always know the weather can change fast so we usually bring a coat even in the summer.
    • Nov 22, 2005
      Wet feet? That's serious. Bring extra socks. And double sock; it helps prevent blisters. Also bring rain gear. Weather on a mountain can take an about-face in a minute. But if you're dry, even a rainy day on the peak can be an exciting adventure!
    • Nov 22, 2005
      Almost everyone has a cell phone these days, and even though it may be out of range, you may luck out if you get lost and are desperate! You can wrap a paper towel around it and place it in 2 ziplock bags to protect it from moisture and from getting damaged if your bag falls.

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