What Hiking Gear Do You Need?
A successful hike—whether it’s a one-day outing or a multi-day trek through the wilderness—largely depends on choosing the right hiking gear. Having the right equipment for walking in the mountains will allow you to set off without any trouble. On this page, we present the top 10 essential accessories for a successful hike. These accessories will complement your hiking and trekking gear and help you make the most of your mountain adventure.
1. Trekking Poles – Relieve Pressure on Limbs
Trekking poles (or walking poles) are not essential, but they can be extremely useful on varied terrain or during long hikes. When going uphill, they help you move forward by providing support, and on descents they reduce the strain and impact of weight on your lower limbs. By shifting some of the load to your arms, you save leg energy and improve stability. With your weight distributed across four points of contact instead of two, you protect your joints and reduce the risk of slipping on technical sections. Telescopic or foldable poles are available, making them easy to carry when not in use. Choose lightweight yet sturdy poles—such as those made from aluminium or carbon fibre—to avoid adding much weight to your pack. For many hikers, trekking poles help maintain a good pace, balance body load, and increase safety when crossing streams or rough terrain.
2. Navigation Tools – Map, Compass and Hiking GPS
Navigation on a hike isn’t something you can just improvise – it’s essential to carry the right navigation tools to avoid getting lost. The winning combination includes a detailed topographic map of the area, a compass and optionally a hiking GPS. Even though smartphone apps exist, nothing beats a good old reliable compass that doesn’t rely on battery power. Make sure you know how to use your map and compass before setting off. There are various types of compass available (basic, sighting, electronic): choose a sturdy, easy-to-read model. A GPS watch or handheld GPS can be an excellent addition to confirm your precise location and follow a route, especially if you're off marked trails. Again, there’s a wide range of handheld GPS units, some waterproof and highly accurate. Keep in mind that these electronic devices rely on batteries – bring spare batteries or a power bank if you're heading out for a long period. With these navigation tools, you’ll be able to enjoy your adventure with peace of mind, without fear of getting lost, and always find your way back to camp or your car.
3. Hydration – Stainless Steel Bottle and Adequate Water
Staying hydrated during physical activity is vital. Always carry a suitable water bottle or hydration bladder depending on the length of your hike. A stainless steel bottle is an excellent choice: this material is durable, taste-neutral, and can keep water cool (some insulated stainless steel bottles even retain heat or cold for several hours). Take at least 1.5 to 2 litres of water per person for a day’s hike—more if it’s hot or the route is particularly challenging. Stainless steel ensures the bottle lasts, even if dropped, and won’t release any unwanted substances into your water. Various types are available, from a simple metal bottle to a hydration bladder with a tube, allowing you to drink without stopping. Choose the option that best suits your hiking style. Be mindful of the weight of water in your pack (1 litre weighs 1 kg): avoid overloading yourself unnecessarily and identify any potential sources of drinking water on the map along your route. You can also bring a small filter or purification tablets to refill your bottle along the way from rivers (away from towns and avoiding stagnant water), if needed. Never overlook hydration—especially when hiking in the mountains or in hot weather—so you stay fit right through to the end of your walk.
4. Sun Protection – Sunglasses, Hat and Sunscreen
Even in cool or overcast weather, UV rays from the sun can be harmful during prolonged exposure at altitude or in open terrain. Proper sun protection is therefore one of the essentials not to forget. This of course includes a pair of high-quality sunglasses with a high protection rating (category 3 or 4 for high-altitude mountain use) to shield your eyes from glare and UV rays. Add a hat or cap to prevent sunstroke, along with an effective sunscreen (preferably SPF 50) for exposed skin. Don’t forget your lips either—use a UV-protective lip balm. If you wear prescription glasses or sunglasses, consider sunglass accessories such as a retainer strap to avoid losing them on the trail. These accessories might seem minor, but they contribute to your comfort and allow you to hike confidently in the sun. Also bear in mind that snow increases the sun’s glare: in winter or on glaciers, special lenses may be needed in addition to your usual hiking gear.
5. First Aid Kit and Emergency Blanket – Be Prepared for the Unexpected
It’s not always top of mind, but a small first aid kit is an essential part of your basic trekking gear. Pack a first aid kit in your rucksack with plasters of various sizes—such as those from Compeed—sterile dressings, antiseptic, bandages for sprains, and blister treatments. This allows you to deal with common hiking injuries. Add a whistle (often built into the sternum strap of a backpack) to signal your position if needed. Another crucial item to carry is an emergency blanket. Extremely lightweight (just a few grams) and taking up hardly any space, it could be a lifesaver in a difficult situation—such as if you need to wait for rescue at night or in bad weather. It provides protection from cold, rain or sun depending on the situation, and also acts as a visual signal thanks to its highly reflective silver or gold surface. In an emergency out in the wild, being able to stay warm and make yourself visible is absolutely vital.
6. Multi-Tool Knife – The Ultimate Versatile Tool
No list would be complete without mentioning the knife. A multi-tool knife (like a Swiss Army knife or multi-tool) is a loyal companion for any hiker. This small tool proves incredibly useful: slicing sausage or cheese during a picnic break, opening food packaging, fixing a strap or tent, whittling a stick, or gathering small wood for a fire (where permitted). Choose a quality knife made from stainless steel, which resists corrosion and will serve you well for many years. There are countless pocketknife models with various features (blade, can opener, screwdriver, scissors, etc.). It’s up to you to select the one that suits your needs and the type of hiking you do. A knife is an all-purpose tool that takes up hardly any space in your pack—but sooner or later, you’ll be glad to have it.
7. Head Torch – See and Be Seen in the Dark
A head torch is a hiker’s must-have and deserves a place in your pack—even if you plan to return before nightfall. Unexpected delays (slower pace, detours, an injured companion) can set you back, and night may fall before you’ve completed your route. A head torch allows you to keep moving safely by lighting the path, or simply to rummage through your pack once daylight fades. It also helps you signal your presence to others—or to rescue services if you’re in trouble. Choose a lightweight model with a strong beam and good battery life. You’ll find models that are USB-rechargeable or powered by standard batteries—go with whichever is most convenient for you. Thanks to the featherweight design of many modern torches, you can wear one around your head or neck comfortably while walking. Always check the charge or batteries before setting off and consider carrying spares to avoid being left in the dark. This small accessory can make a big difference when it comes to safety, especially if you're hiking late in the day or moving through remote mountain areas. If you're hiking solo, it's even more important—as you'll be relying entirely on your own light in case of trouble.
8. Backpack – The Foundation of Your Hiking and Trekking Gear
The backpack is the central piece of any hiking gear. It allows you to carry all your essentials and should be chosen according to the length and nature of your outing. There is a wide range of backpacks available—20 to 30L for a day hike, 40 to 60L for a multi-day trek, and over 60L for self-sufficient expeditions. Choose a high-quality backpack with a hip belt and adjustable shoulder straps to ensure even weight distribution. A well-fitted pack with load lifters helps keep the weight on your lower limbs manageable and prevents you from losing balance. Don’t forget rain protection: some packs come with a waterproof rain cover, while others use water-repellent synthetic materials. Waterproof models will keep your belongings dry during a shower and allow you to continue your hike without worry. Keep in mind that an overly heavy backpack can spoil your outing—pack only the essentials and avoid unnecessary weight through smart gear organisation.
9. Rugged Hiking Boots –Essential for Mountain Adventures
Good hiking boots are essential for walking in comfort and safety. Unsuitable footwear can lead to blisters and ruin your adventure. It’s advisable to choose your footwear based on the terrain and the weight you’ll be carrying. For instance, high-ankle boots provide better ankle support on rough ground, while low-cut models (or even hiking sandals on easy trails) can be suitable for light walks across flat terrain. Opt for waterproof and breathable models, especially for mountain hikes where the weather can change quickly. The materials used in the boots affect comfort and durability—leather, Gore-Tex, or other technical synthetic materials. The purpose of these materials is to strike a good balance between protection, breathability, and weight. It’s often said that a kilo on your feet equals five kilos on your back: this extra weight on your feet therefore translates into increased fatigue. Heavy boots increase the load on your lower limbs and tire the hiker more quickly. Conversely, lightweight boots provide greater agility and comfort, thanks to their lower weight. Hiking footwear materials have advanced significantly in recent years, offering ever-lighter boots without compromising on protection. Finally, consider packing a second pair of shoes to give your feet a break at the campsite: hiking sandals can be useful for letting your feet breathe after a long day, without adding much to your pack’s weight.
10. Hiking Clothing – Choose Waterproof and Breathable Options
Wearing the right hiking clothing for the weather is essential for keeping the enjoyment of your walk going. The layering technique is your best ally: a breathable base layer to wick away sweat, an insulating mid-layer (such as a fleece or light down jacket) to retain warmth, and an outer shell to protect you from wind and rain. For this outer layer, choose jackets and trousers made from technical waterproof and windproof materials. There are many waterproof models available (like hardshell jackets with Gore-Tex membranes, for example) that keep out rain while allowing perspiration to escape. Most of these garments are made from synthetic materials that dry quickly and wick moisture effectively—unlike cotton, which should be avoided for hiking as it takes too long to dry. Having a rain jacket and a fleece in your pack can make all the difference in staying comfortable. Don’t forget clothing accessories either: a beanie or neck warmer and gloves if temperatures might drop, or a sun hat for warm conditions. Spare technical socks are also a must to help prevent blisters. Adapting your hiking clothing to the season and environment is an important part of planning a successful hike.
11. Bonus: A Camera!
We’ve included it as a bonus because it might not seem as essential as the other items on this list—yet it absolutely deserves a place. A camera is the perfect companion for any hike, allowing you to capture powerful moments and extend the emotion of the experience long after you've returned. Over time, memories fade, majestic landscapes become hazy in our minds, and even the details of our most remarkable adventures begin to slip away. Capturing these moments in images not only helps you relive them but also share them with loved ones. To avoid adding too much weight to your pack, there are now compact and lightweight models that offer excellent image quality—much more suitable than a smartphone in challenging conditions. Whether it’s the changing light atop a summit, morning mist over a lake, or the brief appearance of a wild animal, a camera lets you preserve those unique moments that only hiking can offer and keep a faithful record of every trip into the wild.
With these ten types of accessories in your pack, you’ll have the essential gear needed to hike safely and make the most of your outing. Of course, the list may vary slightly depending on the weather, the duration, and whether you're hiking solo or with others, but these fundamentals remain the same for most hiking trips. Every one of the hiking accessories mentioned here has a role to play in your comfort or safety, and even the smallest item can make a big difference when needed.
Additionally, depending on the terrain or season, consider supplementing your kit with specialist equipment: for example, snowshoes for a winter mountain outing, or hiking sandals to cross a stream without soaking your boots. Every adventure is unique, and it's important to adjust your gear accordingly.