When you first get into hiking, you quickly start wondering what hiking equipment you actually need to buy (or borrow from a friend who’s already done it). Between the never-ending lists you find online and shops that seem to have an answer for everything, it can feel like you need to empty your bank account before you’ve even walked your first kilometre.
In reality, it’s not that complicated. With time and kilometres under my belt, I’ve come to realise there are really just a few key essentials. The rest depends on the type of outing: a gentle afternoon walk, a mountain day hike, and a multi-day trek all need very different kit. Duration, terrain, and season change everything. A few hours around Annecy doesn’t require the same preparation as a full mountain day in winter, let alone a week-long trail. For multi-day trips, I’ve covered that in a separate article on what to pack for a long-distance hike.
This guide focuses on day hiking and weekend outings, the kind of walking most people do on a Sunday, with or without a dog, with or without a solid plan. And it’s precisely because it seems simple that people tend to underprepare. So here’s what I genuinely consider essential for a good hiking equipment list.
Hiking equipment: questions to ask yourself before you buy
Before spending anything, it helps to ask yourself three simple questions. The answers will shape what you actually need, and it’ll help you avoid buying things that’ll just take up space in your garage.
How long will you be out?
A two-hour walk on a well-marked path and a full day in the mountains are not the same thing at all. The first requires very little. The second means you need to think ahead: enough water and food, a layer for when the temperature drops, something waterproof. The more hours you plan to be out, the more you need to prepare for things going differently than expected.
Where are you going?
The second thing to consider is terrain. And again, the needs are completely different.
A walk on an easy forest path or peri-urban trail is accessible with fairly simple kit. The elevation gain is usually limited, help is nearby, and the weather is easier to predict. A good pair of walking shoes will often do the job; in some cases, your trail running shoes might even work. Poles are optional or barely useful, and your bag can stay light.
Mountain hiking is a different story altogether. Even on routes that aren’t technically difficult, conditions can change very fast. I’ve had summers in Haute-Savoie where it was 28°C at the trailhead and I ended up finishing the hike in a storm at 12°C. In the mountains, you always need to be prepared for things to evolve. That means packing a waterproof jacket even when the morning looks clear, and a warm mid-layer even in summer. Terrain can also be more demanding: loose ground, exposed sections, possibly snow even in June at higher elevations.
What season?
Season matters a lot. Summer hiking has its own risks too: heat, UV exposure, hydration. For hot weather hikes, I’d recommend checking out some practical advice on hiking in a heatwave. In winter or on snowy terrain, your footwear and layering choices become critical. In autumn, you can be caught out by both rain and unexpectedly low temperatures.
Why it’s better to invest in a few good basics
It’s tempting to try and buy everything at once and tick every box on the list. In practice, that’s rarely the best approach. The risk is ending up with a pile of mediocre kit that neither protects you properly nor lasts very long.
What I always recommend is starting with a few quality basics (particularly footwear and a backpack) and building the rest gradually depending on how your hiking evolves. A solid pair of trail shoes that you wear a hundred times will serve you better than three cheap pairs that fall apart after two outings.
Hiking equipment: my gear list
Rather than giving you a list of products to buy, I want to explain what each piece of kit is for and what to look for when choosing it. Because the “best” gear is always the gear that fits your practice, not someone else’s.
Hiking equipment: the essentials
These are the pieces of kit that matter on every hike, regardless of terrain, duration, or season. The stuff you don’t go without.
Footwear: the single most important thing
If you’re only going to invest in one thing, make it your shoes. That’s not just a cliché. Wrong footwear can ruin a hike or even ruin a holiday. I have a very vivid memory of ending a long walk carrying my shoes because they were causing me so much pain. We’ve all been there.
What you’re looking for in a good hiking shoe: decent ankle support (especially on uneven terrain), a grippy sole, and at least some level of waterproofing. A lot of manufacturers now offer GTX (Gore-Tex) versions, which are worth considering even in summer, since a wet foot early in a hike quickly becomes a blister problem.
Low-cut shoes work well for flat or non-technical trails. As soon as there’s significant elevation gain, loose ground, or technical terrain, a mid or high-cut boot with ankle support is a sensible choice. And as always: break them in before a big day out. Never, ever wear brand new shoes on a long hike.
Hiking socks: the essential item people underestimate
Socks are the second most important item on any hiking equipment list, and probably the one that gets overlooked the most. I know it sounds odd to spend proper money on socks, but once you’ve tried a good pair, you don’t go back.
What you want: wool or wool-blend (Merino ideally), padding in the right places (heel, ball of foot, toe), and good moisture management. Cotton socks are out: they retain moisture and cause blisters fast. I’ve also found that good socks actually make cheaper shoes more comfortable, which shows how much they matter.
The other thing that’s easy to get wrong: sock thickness. Too thick a sock in a snug shoe = pressure and blisters. If you’re trying a new combination, test it on a short walk first. It sounds like a small detail, but a good shoes-and-socks combination genuinely changes how your feet feel over several hours of walking.
The hiking backpack: finding the right volume
For a day hike, you’ll generally be looking at 15 to 30 litres. Under that and you’ll struggle to fit the basics. Over that and you’ll end up packing things you don’t need, and carrying extra weight for no reason.
Personally, for a standard day out, I use an 18 to 22-litre pack. It’s enough for a waterproof layer, a day’s food, 1.5 to 2 litres of water, a first-aid kit, my camera, and the usual bits and pieces. For longer days or uncertain weather, I’ll opt for 25 litres to give myself a bit more room.
Beyond volume, what really matters in a hiking pack is the carrying system. What I look for: good back ventilation, padded shoulder straps, and a hip belt that transfers weight to your hips rather than hanging it all from your shoulders. A well-fitted 20-litre pack is far more comfortable over a long day than a poorly fitted 30-litre one.
Technical clothing: breathability and protection
The golden rule for hiking clothing is the layering system: a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating mid-layer, and a protective outer layer. Even in summer. Even if it looks sunny at 8am.
The base layer is what goes against your skin. Its job is to wick sweat away and keep you dry. Cotton is a no-go here too: it holds moisture and gets cold fast. Go for synthetic fabrics or Merino wool.
The mid-layer is for insulation when temperatures drop. A light fleece or a packable down jacket (or synthetic equivalent) does the job without weighing a tonne. Something you can stuff into your pack easily.
The outer layer is your waterproof and windproof shell. It’s the one that protects you when the weather turns. A proper hiking softshell or hardshell jacket is an investment, but it’s worth it. I’ve hiked in a light cotton hoody that felt fine at the trailhead and was utterly miserable two hours in when it started raining. Never again.
For the bottom half: hiking trousers or shorts depending on season, with convertible options being genuinely useful if you hike in variable conditions. Avoid jeans: they’re heavy, hold moisture, and chafe.
Women’s hiking equipment: are there real differences?
It’s a question that comes up often: is there really such a thing as women-specific hiking gear, and does it actually make a difference? The short answer is yes, but not necessarily for the reasons you might expect (it’s not just about being available in pink).
In most cases, the differences come down to fit and comfort. Manufacturers have understood in recent years that women don’t just need a smaller version of men’s gear. Foot shape, shoulder width, hip position, and back length all directly affect how a backpack or pair of shoes will perform over several hours of walking.
But beyond the marketing, what actually matters is simple: kit that fits your body and suits how you hike. Whether it’s labelled “women’s” or “unisex” doesn’t matter if the fit is right. Some women prefer men’s trail shoes because they have a wider foot. Others find that a women’s-specific backpack, with its shorter torso length and adapted hip belt, makes a huge difference in comfort over a full day out.
Fit, ergonomics and body shape
The main differences you’ll find in women’s-specific hiking gear are in the shape of the last (the foot mould for shoes), the shoulder harness width and angle (narrower on women’s packs), and the hip belt position (higher and more curved). These are real ergonomic differences, not just aesthetics.
My advice: try things on properly. With shoes, wear your hiking socks for the fitting. With a backpack, load it with some weight before deciding. What feels fine empty often feels very different once you’ve got 8 kilos in it. And always check the return policy, because fit is personal and sometimes you only find out what works after a full day on trail.
Common mistakes when choosing hiking gear
Over the years I’ve made most of these myself, so consider this a friendly heads-up rather than a lecture.
The first mistake: buying everything before you’ve hiked enough to know what you need. It’s very easy to get caught up in gear lists and end up with a wardrobe full of technical kit and no feel for what actually matters for your style of hiking. Start with the basics (shoes, pack, waterproof) and build from there.
The second mistake: underestimating the conditions because you’ve done easier routes before. The fact that you’ve done lots of gentle walks doesn’t mean you’re prepared for a mountain day. It’s not about fitness; it’s about knowing what to expect and what to carry. The same shoes that worked on a forest trail won’t necessarily cut it on a rocky ridge.
The third mistake, and a more subtle one: trying to replicate someone else’s kit list exactly. On social media and in specialist shops, it’s easy to get the impression there’s one “perfect” hiking equipment list. In reality, what works brilliantly for one person won’t necessarily be ideal for you. Body shape, gait, cold sensitivity, the way you sweat. All of it changes things.
With experience, you realise that the right gear is the gear that suits your own hiking practice. Some people prefer to go very light. Others like a bit more comfort in their pack. Some hike fast and run warm; others go slowly and feel the cold. Your kit list will evolve with your experience, and that’s completely normal.
Useful hiking equipment to always keep in your pack
Beyond the main items, there’s a category of gear that doesn’t weigh much but makes a real difference. These are the things you’re glad you packed, and very glad of if something goes wrong.
Navigation and communication
At minimum: a fully charged phone with an offline map downloaded (I use Komoot or Hiking Project; having the map available offline matters if you lose signal). A power bank is a good idea on longer days. If you hike regularly in remote areas, a GPS watch or dedicated hiking GPS is worth considering.
For emergencies: know the local mountain rescue number before you go. In France, that’s 15 (SAMU), 18 (fire service), or 112 (European emergency). In the mountains, tell someone your route and expected return time before setting off.
Small everyday essentials
A few small items that earn their weight:
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+ in the mountains, since UV exposure increases significantly with altitude)
- Sunglasses (polarised lenses for high-altitude routes with snow or water)
- A hat or cap and a warm beanie (depending on season and elevation)
- Lip balm with sun protection
- A small torch or headtorch (even on a day hike, worth having in case you’re out longer than planned)
- A multi-tool or basic knife (optional but often useful)
Clothing and protection for changing conditions
Even in summer: a waterproof jacket (a light packable one takes up almost no space) and a thin warm layer. The mountains have their own logic, and “it’s sunny this morning” is not a weather forecast.
In autumn or spring: a buff or neck gaiter, light gloves, and a beanie can make all the difference. These weigh almost nothing and can save a cold, wet afternoon from becoming miserable.
Food and hydration
The basic rule: bring more water than you think you’ll need. For a full day hike, I aim for at least 1.5 to 2 litres, more in hot weather. A hydration reservoir (bladder) is easier than stopping to get a bottle out every time. If there are reliable water sources on your route, a filter or purification tablets can allow you to refill.
For food: enough for the day plus a small emergency reserve. Calorie-dense snacks (nuts, dried fruit, cereal bars, cheese) work well for sustained energy. A proper lunch, even a simple one, makes a big difference to how you feel in the afternoon. Don’t skip it in the name of going faster.
Basic safety gear
A small first-aid kit is non-negotiable on any day hike. At minimum:
- Blister plasters (specifically designed for blisters; they make a difference)
- Standard plasters and wound dressings
- Paracetamol and ibuprofen
- An antiseptic wipe or small antiseptic spray
- A bandage
An emergency foil blanket is a classic example of something that weighs almost nothing and can matter a lot. It’s useful if someone gets injured, if the weather turns bad, or if you’re waiting for help. It won’t turn your pack into an expedition bag, but it means you’re not completely unprepared for the situations that do occasionally happen.
With experience, everyone adapts this list to their own practice, terrain, and how long they tend to be out. The goal isn’t a perfect universal list, it’s a kit that suits you.
Frequently asked questions about hiking equipment
What hiking equipment do I need as a beginner?
You don’t need to buy everything at once. The basics that genuinely matter: good shoes, technical socks, breathable clothing, and a waterproof jacket. Build the rest gradually, based on the terrain and duration of your outings.
What backpack for a day hike?
For a full day, a 15 to 30-litre pack is the right range. Personally, I use 18 to 22 litres for most day hikes, and around 25 litres when the weather is uncertain or the day is long.
Can you hike in trail running shoes?
It depends entirely on the terrain. On easy, well-marked trails without significant elevation, trail runners can work perfectly well. As soon as you’re on loose, rocky, or technical ground with significant elevation gain, a hiking shoe or boot with ankle support and a stiffer sole is safer and more comfortable. On multi-day treks, hiking shoes are almost always the better choice.
Are hiking poles useful?
It depends on the route and the person. On flat or gently rolling terrain, they add little. On steep climbs and especially descents, they make a real difference to stability and knee comfort. If you hike in the mountains regularly or have knee issues, they’re well worth trying.
What’s the difference between hiking shoes and walking shoes?
Walking shoes are designed for flat or paved surfaces: they’re light and flexible. Hiking shoes are built for uneven terrain: stiffer sole, better grip, ankle support. For anything beyond a gentle park walk, hiking shoes are the right choice.
How do I know if I’m well equipped for a hike?
Ask yourself these three questions before you go: do I have enough water and food? Am I dressed for a sudden change in weather? Do I have something basic for first aid? If the answer to all three is yes, you’re in a reasonable position to start. The rest will come with experience on the trail.