For the past three years, I’ve been doing some form of an extended vacation. I was in Ireland for six weeks the summer of 2019, then Thomas and I went to Sedona, AZ for six weeks in 2020 and 2021. We love hiking, which is something that Louisiana sorely lacks due to how flat the state is. We’re going back to Sedona this year for 10 days and I plan on hiking every single day. Here are some of my favorite things to take with me for both short and long hikes.
For day hikes, I always bring a 32 oz. Nalgene bottle, and maybe a snack depending on the length of the hike. For longer hikes, I carry a hydration bladder for quick access to my water. I like a bladder because they’re lightweight (minus the water) and easier to carry than a few bulky water bottles.
Footwear
Salewa brand is my hiking boot of choice. I don’t dick around when it comes to footwear. The wrong pair can really ruin your hike. I’ve got wide toes and high arches, so I need that good arch support and a toe box wide enough to not pinch my pinkies. My boots are worth every penny as I’m on the third year with them and they show very little wear despite racking up a slew of trail miles.
Socks are really important, too. I like Bombas, Smartwool (in winter), but any good, thick sock will do. You want the extra cushion. Look for extra cushion in the toes and heels, especially if you’re doing a hike with a lot of elevation gain. If you’ve got a steep descent, the last thing you want is to smash your toes against your boots. Trust me, you don’t want to lose a toenail.
Bandana
It’s not a hike without a bandana! I always hike with a bandana or neck gaiter. A bandana is such a multipurpose item. It keeps the sun off your neck, you can use it to wipe sweat from your eyes, it functions as a potholder when handling a hot camp stove, etc… I have several and I like to get them soaking wet on hot days, which really cools you off.
Backpacks
Again, it’s all about comfort and functionality. I have two Deuter brand backpacks, one for backpacking, and one for day hikes. When I buy gear, I look for durable products that will last me for years and I research all the features. It’s best to try on gear in a store, especially if you have a short torso and are petite, like me. I got my “big bag” at Massey’s in New Orleans so I could try it on. You don’t want to find out on the trail that your pack doesn’t suit your size, especially if you plan to do an overnight backpacking trip.
Camera
Get yourself a comfortable camera strap. I bought this BlackRapid Backpack Breathe last year and it was such a solid investment. The carbingers attach to your backpack straps, eliminating the need for a neck strap. I hate neck straps, so this is perfect for me. Before I bought this, I’d have to finagle my shoulder strap around my backpack straps, which wasn’t comfortable and would rub my neck. I also really like BlackRapid’s wrist strap when I’m shooting analogue. If you’re hiking without a backpack, I really like this strap designed for people with boobs.
Sun protection
Sunscreen is a must, even though I hate the way it feels on my skin. I’ve invested in several hats and last summer I bought long sleeved swimsuits with built in UPF protection and these sun sleeves that protect your hands and arms. Sure, they look goofy as hell but it’s better than getting melanoma.
Portable charger
I really enjoy unplugging when I’m hiking, but a phone comes in handy for emergencies, navigation, a back up flash light, etc… I have a few portable phone chargers but I really like the ones from Anker. They’re solar powered, so you can recharge it while you’re out. I bought mine after Hurricane Ida left us without power for days. It’s really handy to have.
Headlamp
I always bring a headlamp with me, even during the day. You never know if you’re going to get lost and trust me, you don’t want to try to navigate your way in the dark.