Step Into Nature: Top Hiking Gear Essentials for 2024 Adventure
- Emma Hamrick
- Jan 20, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 10, 2024
The whole world developed new hobbies during the COVID-19 pandemic era. Some people learned to bake bread or whip coffee. I opted to fixate on hiking and being outside. And while I wouldn’t call myself a full “granola girl,” I would consider myself to be a slightly crunchy fan of hitting the trails.
Since embracing the great outdoors, I’ve gone on hiking trips to Grand Teton, Yellowstone, Hawaii Volcanoes, Joshua Tree, and Rocky Mountain National Parks and traversed countless California trails from Torrey Pines in San Diego to Montaña de Oro in San Luis Obispo, CA.
I have many miles ahead of me, but I have learned a thing or two about hiking in the ground I’ve covered. Here are a few of my must-pack hiking essentials for 2024!
ESSENTIAL GEAR FOR LOCAL HIKES IN 2024
Water Bottle - I’m by no means a water bottle brand loyalist. I’ve tried Hydroflask, I’ve tried Stanley, I’ve tried Yeti and I’ve tried cheap bottles from Target. Here are the three attributes that make a good hiking bottle in my opinion:
Metal to keep cold
Straw for sipping
Handle for easy carrying
Water Bottle Sling - This was the biggest game changer for me recently! Gone are the days of banging my bottle around or whacking my hiking partner. This sling from Hydroflask holds a larger size bottle and has a convenient pocket for a driver’s license and credit card.
Trail Running Shoes - Leveling up from basic tennis shoes to trail running shoes gave me the confidence I needed to traverse steep trails. I love these ones from Altra and have had friends rave about the HOKA Challengers as well.
Lululemon Belt Bag - Basic? Yes. Essential? Also yes. I can’t imagine going anywhere without my belt bag, and that includes going on a hike. It’s the perfect size where it won’t weigh you down, but fits a granola bar, Chapstick and cell phone without a problem!
Hiking Socks - I didn’t realize what an impact having quality socks has on your hiking experience until I borrowed some from my mom while we were in Joshua Tree. Now, I won’t hike more than a few miles without quality socks. These are by far my favorite!
Lululemon Define Jacket - My brother got me this jacket for Christmas one year and it’s been my go-to for a few years. The sleeves fold over the hands and thumb hole to keep fingers warm while the moisture-wicking material allows for a comfy and breathable fit.
ESSENTIAL GEAR FOR DAY HIKES / NATIONAL PARK DAY TRIPS
Nocs - This nifty pair of binoculars is small enough to stash in a Lululemon belt bag and powerful enough to spot wildlife from far away. I purchased these for my trip to Alaska and have tossed them in my bag a few times when visiting nature-dense locations. They won’t break the bank and add to the nature spotting experience.
Weekend First Aid Kit - I throw this weekend first aid kit into my pack whenever I’m going for a longer hike or weekend trip. It’s great for grabbing quick meds on the go or cleaning up cuts and blisters on the trails.
Blister Bandages - Blister bandages came in clutch when I visited the Rocky Mountains with my brother and best friend. I especially find it useful after river crossings and wet socks, or after wearing high heels out to dinner!
Headlamp - A solid hiking must-have that has allowed me to spend a little extra time on the trails.
Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket - This one is a bit of a splurge, but I do love my Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket. It packs down super small without too much weight, so it’s great for carry-on bags or as a “just in case” item in my hiking pack.
Winter Headband - I get weirdly cold ears if the weather is below the 60s (Is this just a me thing?). But I had some extra REI Co-Op points and decided to pick up a winter headband and I’m glad I did as I’ve worn it everywhere from Joshua Tree to Colorado to Alaska!
Snacks - My favorite trail snack has to be Clif Bars. I never leave without a few of these in my bag!