The Essential Hiking Kit: Gear Up for Your Next Adventure

Embarking on a hiking adventure is an exhilarating experience, offering a blend of physical challenge and the serenity of nature. 

But, as any seasoned hiker will tell you, the difference between a memorable trek and a miserable one often boils down to your gear. 

Having the right kit not only enhances your comfort but also ensures your safety on the trail. 

So, let's lace up our boots and delve into the essential hiking kit list that every hiker should have with them.

1. Why Having the Right Hiking Kit Matters

Imagine setting off on a trail, the sun shining, birds chirping, only to realize a few miles in that you've got the wrong hiking gear. 

Your shoes are giving you blisters, and you've run out of water. 

Not the idyllic scenario you envisioned, right? 

The UK's diverse terrains and unpredictable weather mean that being well-prepared isn't just advisable; it's essential. 

The right hiking gear can be the difference between a joyful jaunt and a call to mountain rescue.

2. The Core Essentials for Every Hiker

Let's break down the must-haves:

a. Navigation Tools

• Map and Compass: Even in this digital age, a physical map and compass are invaluable. Technology can fail, but these trusty tools won't. Grab yourself an Ordnance Survey or Harveys map.
• GPS Devices or Smartphone Apps: Handy for tracking your route, but always have a backup. Remember, batteries have a nasty habit of dying at the most inconvenient times. Try out the OS Maps app.

b. Proper Footwear

• Hiking Boots vs. Hiking Shoes vs. Trail Shoes: Your choice depends on the terrain. Boots offer ankle support for rugged paths, while hiking & trail shoes are lighter for well-trodden routes. This is an area that will receive different strong opinions on depending on who you speak to, but just experiment and see which option you prefer.
• Wear them before you go: if you're buying a new pair of hiking boots for your trail, be sure to wear them before you actually get out on the trail to break them in. Nobody is a fan of blisters, and breaking them in before you get on the trail will maximise your likelihood of avoiding blisters and having an enjoyable time on the trail.
• Socks: Invest in moisture-wicking socks. And always pack an extra pair if the weather is bad or you're heading into the mountains where weather can change quickly; wet feet are unhappy feet. Don't scrimp here, you'll thank yourself for investing in a high quality hiking sock. Try brands like Bridgedale and SmartWool.

c. Weather-Appropriate Clothing

• Layering System: Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating mid-layer, and top with a waterproof shell. This combo prepares you for the UK's mood swings and should be easy to lob in your hiking pack.
• Waterproof jacket: generally speaking, I tend to pack a waterproof jacket all-year round. It will be a lightweight Pac O Mac in the summer and a more substantial rain jacket in the colder, wetter months.
• Hat and Gloves: If you're heading out in the colder months of the year, make sure to pack some gloves and a hat, in case you need to keep warm when stopped or if the wind starts whipping up a chill. We all know what the UK's weather can be like.
• Summer Clothes: if you're out in the warmer time of the year (on the two days its sunny in the UK?! you lucky bas**** you!), then be sure to pack some hiking shorts, sunglasses, suncream and a lightweight top.

d. Food & Water

• Hydration: Carry enough water for your journey. Consider a hydration bladder for easy sipping.
• Snacks: High-energy foods like nuts, jerky, and flapjacks keep you fueled. There are lots of more sport specific and hiking specific foods you can take with you on the trail. Including a company called Real Meal, which allow you to pack some more calorie dense snacks to keep you fuelled on the go.
• Water Purifier: In case you need to refill from natural sources. Better safe than sorry!

e. Emergency Supplies

• First Aid Kit: Customize it to your needs, but include basics like plasters, antiseptics, and pain relievers. This is often one people overlook because “it won't happen to me”, but packing a first aid kit (even a light one with the bare essentials) will help you to deal with some minor injuries on the trail without it escalating into a bigger problem. If you hike with a dog, then you may need to pack some dog-specific first aid kit additions like a tick remover. Super easy to find hiking specific and lightweight first aid kits from the likes of Cotswold Outdoor and other similar outdoors retailers.
• Whistle and Torch: For signaling and navigating in low light.
• Survival Blanket: Lightweight and can be a lifesaver in emergencies as an emergency shelter. This is obviously more relevant if you're planning a trip into the mountains, however there is no harm in packing one if you're going to wilder places like Moorland (e.g. Dartmoor National Park).

f. Backpack

• Size Matters: For a day hike, a 20-30 litre pack suffices. A multi day hike or long distance hike might require 50 litres or more. This will also depend on whether you are looking to camp (and therefore need to pack a tent, sleeping bag and your sleep system).
• Fit and Comfort: Look for adjustable straps and good weight distribution. Your back will thank you. Depending on the budget you have, you can find some hiking bags with large capacity but that are pretty lightweight.

3. Extras That Make a Big Difference

• Trekking Poles: Great for stability and reducing strain on knees. Hiking poles / walking poles are not just for the older hikers out there, believe me! Especially for coming downhill, they really help to take the strain off your knees, and improve efficiency on the flat and uphill sections too.
• Blister Plasters: Because prevention is better than hobbling back in pain.
• Sit Pad: A dry, comfy spot for breaks.
• Power Bank: Keep your devices charged, especially if using GPS apps, or going on multi-day hikes.
• Gaiters: Keep mud and debris out of your boots, especially on those boggy UK trails.

4. Don’t Forget the Personal Touch

Every hike tells a story, and what better way to commemorate your adventures than with a keepsake?

• Notebook or Journal: Jot down memorable moments, or even sketch that stunning vista. This is something I am vowing to do more of, as I hate how I forget the beautiful moments on the trail a few months after the fact.
• Camera: Don't need to explain this one! Capture the beautiful scenery and vistas on your route as you go.
• Hiking Patches: Celebrate your achievements with our unique patches here at A Trail To Remember. Whether you've conquered the South West Coast Path, the West Highland Way or summited Snowdon, we've got a patch to mark the occasion. Made from recycled threads with easy iron-on backing, they're a badge of honour for your backpack or jacket.

Conclusion

Equipping yourself with the right gear transforms a good hike into a great one. 

It's about safety, comfort, and making the most of the beautiful trails the UK has to offer. 

So, pack wisely, tread lightly, and don't forget to commemorate your journey with a patch that tells your story. 

Happy hiking!

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Feel free to explore our collection of hiking patches to find the perfect memento for your adventures. Each patch is designed with love, reflecting the spirit of the trails you cherish.