Day Hike Kit

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     Essential Equipment for all Hikers

• Pack: Comfortable and adequate size, if your pack is very old, consider a new comfortable lightweight model.

• Water: At least a litre for our 15km hikes. More if hot weather, preferably in a bladder in backpack. Aluminium or heavy duty plastic containers will suffice.

• Sunscreen Water resistant SPF 30+

• Whistle

       Recommended Equipment

• First Aid Kit

• Torch Compact (windup is a good idea)

• Pocket knife

• Sunglasses

• Notepad and pencil

• Toilet paper and towel

• Matches and/or flint

• Insect repellant

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    Clothing and Footwear

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      Essential Item #1: Footwear

• Hiking boots provide support and comfort for your feet and ankles on long trails and uneven terrain.

• Consider whether hiking boots or hiking shoes are going to be appropriate for you. Some hikers have both and choose according to the hiking conditions.

• A pair of gaiters combined with shoes can stop those annoying little stones from lodging in your shoes 

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      Essential Item #2: Proper Clothing

You don't need to buy a new wardrobe before you hit the trail, but you'll need a few basics to stay safe and comfortable. While you don't need the most expensive gear, avoid cotton: it's a poor insulator when wet, making you feel colder and increasing your risk of hypothermia. Look for synthetic or wool materials instead.

• Base layer: If you’re hiking in mostly warm weather, this usually means synthetic t-shirt and shorts. It is important that the layer next to your skin is quick drying.

• Warm, insulating layer: Do you have a fleece jacket? How about a comfy wool sweater? Both of these work great as a insulating layer that provides warmth if it gets chilly.

• Waterproof/ wind-proof layer: This includes both rain/wind jackets and hiking or rain pants. The jacket will keep you warm and dry on windy ridges and rainy days, and the pants will keep you warm and protected from brush and mud.

• Socks: Hiking-specific socks offer more cushioning and breathability than cotton tube socks and protect them from blisters (particularly important on long hikes).