Heading out on a hike? I’m sharing my favorite gear that I use when out on the trail!
Backpacks
I use a variety of packs depending on the length and condition of the day hike. My new standard pack is the Osprey Talon 22, a nice balance of size, features, and weight. Previously, I was using the Osprey Stratos 36 Pack for most of my hikes. When I have a bigger load to carry for the day (think long desert hikes), this is the one I will use. I also use the Osprey Talon 6 Waistpack for shorter hikes. It has enough room for the essentials I need on the trail.
Trekking Poles
I almost never hike without my Cascade Tech Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles. As an older hiker, my knees like the help they give me.
Hiking Shoes
I recently switched over to Altra Lone Peak 9s as my main footwear, and have been enjoying them. When I am in rougher terrain, I will switch to my Merrill Moabs for some added protection.
Water Storage
I got lucky and got M!GO water bottles from Mazama Design and have really liked using them on both day hikes and overnight trips. While a touch heavier than a smart water bottle, I don’t worry about them accidentally breaking while I am out. As an added bonus, they have fill markings, so no more guessing “is this 16 oz?”
GPS DEVICE
A Garmin InReach Mini 2 is one of two GPS-capable devices I carry. I leave it off because this is my actual safety device, and I want to preserve its battery if I ever need to use it. My iPhone 16 is my secondary device and the one I use to track my route. This iPhone also allows for satellite messaging, which I have used several times.
Navigation
Like many, I use my phone as my primary navigation tool. I use a collection of apps to help me along the trail. OnX Backcountry is currently my primary app, with GaiaGPS as a backup. When I am actually peakbagging, I use the Peakbagger mobile app. For all these apps, I make sure the map data is downloaded. For remote hikes, I will also carry a traditional paper map.
Headlamp
While not always in my pack, when I am on a longer hike, I will toss my Black Diamond Spot 325 Headlamp in just in case I need some additional light on the trail.
First Aid Kit
I carry two different kits depending on the type of hike I am doing. If I am “in-town”, I have a smaller one, but if I am more remote, I carry a more robust kit. I have also taken a Wilderness First Aid course to give myself a bit more confidence while out on the trail.
Other Items
A small roll of duct tape, a Swiss-Army style knife, and a buff are also in my pack.
Hiking Clothing
Tops
I recently started using sun-hoodies as my primary top. I have both the REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie and the Outdoor Vitals Sun Hoodie. If the weather is going to be a tad cooler, I will wear my Ridge Merino Solstice Sun Hoodie instead.
Bottoms
Depending on the trip, I might wear PrAna’s Zion IIs or convertible hiking pants from REI or Columbia.
Jackets
My jacket of choice is from Mountain Hardware and has kept me nice and warm. If I need just a fleece, I have one from Columbia that I will put on.
Rain jackets
I carry the REI Co-op Rainier Rain Jacket in my pack if there is a chance of rain, but I mostly hike in Southern California, so it doesn’t see much use.
Hat
Just a standard trucker-style cap, paired with my sun hoodie.
Snacks
Yes, please! Various bars, jerky, dried fruit, trail mix, and the occasional Snickers bar can be found in my pack.
Electrolytes
I am old-school and use Gatorade Zero packets for my electrolytes.
