Day Hike

• Backpack or large fanny pack.
  Each hiker should have at least a fanny pack to carry their own snacks, water, walkie-talkie or phone, sunscreen, and trail map.
• Water and water bottle (with clip to hook onto backpack or belt loop)
  Allow 8 ounces for every hour of hiking in moderate weather. You can also pack an energy drink or juice, but water is generally best. Try adding a little lemon or lime for flavor.

  Place the water bottle in the freezer before leaving for a day hike to help keep the water cool for longer.
• Healthy snacks
  Snacks that are good for a hiking trail are lightweight and full of protein. Consider nuts, healthy cereal in small baggies, granola bars, or protein bars.
• Pocket knife
• First aid
  Limit the items and place in a waterproof bag.
• Identification
  While on a day hike, it is best to keep identification in a waterproof container, sealable baggie, or I.D. holder. Attach to the inside of a pocket or hang around your neck.
• Cash for parking (if needed)
  Before going on a day hike, find out if you will need to pay cash for parking at the trail head.
• Extra car keys (for others in your group.)
  In case people get separated it is good for them to a key for the car located at the end of the trail.
• Map of the trail
• Waterproof sunscreen
  50 SPF is recommended.
• Bug repellant
• Individually packaged wet wipes
• Biodegradable toilet paper or a few paper towels folded and in a sealable plastic bag.
  Just in case nature calls and you can find a good bush.
• Walkie-Talkies or cell phones (fully charged)
• Small flashlight
  A flashlight is optional when going on a day hike, but you never know when the hike may take longer than you expect and, if it gets dark, you'll be glad you brought it along.
• Extra batteries
• Camera
• Binoculars
• Lip balm
  When spending time outdoors, it is best to use a lip balm that is enhanced with at least a 15 SPF.
• Clothing for a Day Hike Actions...
• Long-sleeved shirt
  Lightweight and loose-fitting shirts can be used to cover a short-sleeved shirt for added warmth or to protect from sunburn. Choose a sweatshirt or long-sleeved shirt that can be easily tied around your waist.
• Bandana
  A bandana is an all-purpose cloth that is useful for wiping away perspiration, provide shade for your neck, or to tie up your hair in a pony-tail.
• Sunglasses (with attached neckband)
  The trail may lead you into the sun and then shade. It is nice to be able to take off your sunglasses and leave them hang around your neck.
• Lightweight boots or tennis shoes with plenty of support and traction.
  Take extra care to make sure your hiking boots or shoes are ready before wearing on a hiking trail. You should wear the boots or shoes at least a few times for at least a couple hours and walk around in them before taking them on the trail. If your footwear is stiff, rub with plenty of an emollient to soften the leather. Shoes or boots that are too tight or rubbing can cause blisters.

  Also, it is a good idea to spray boots or shoes with a water-repellent spray before using on a day hike.
• Two pairs of socks (a thin cotton pair and a thin wool pair.)
  Even a short day hike can cause blisters if you are not wearing the right socks. It is best to shop at your favorite hiking apparel store for socks that are specially designed and recommended for day hikes. A good pair of socks will be your friend when hiking even short distances.

  Unless it is very warm, first put on the cotton socks then thin wool socks over the top. On warm days, wear a new pair of absorbent cotton socks and bring an extra pair to change into after hiking for a few hours.
• Short-sleeved shirt (containing polyester or designed for athletics)
  Avoid wearing cotton as it may get wet from perspiration or rain and does not dry quickly. A lightweight shirt made with polyester works well as it pulls the moisture away from your skin.
• Shorts with pockets (or jeans, depending on the weather and personal preference.)
  Whether you plan to hike several miles or go on just a day hike, you will want to choose shorts that fit snug enough to avoid rubbing and chaffing.

  When hiking, it is more important to dress for comfort than appearance. If chaffing does occur, rub an emollient on the affected area.
• Lightweight water-repellant jacket or rain coat.
  An actual rain coat and waterproof hat is usually more effective and easier to hike in than a loose-fitting poncho.
• Hat with a brim or visor (if sunny or hot)
  For hot weather, consider wearing a micro cool hat. After getting wet, they stay cool for hours.