Day Hike Checklist: The Ten Essentials and What Else to Bring

Updated November 2026

The Ten Essentials are the classic list of what to carry on any hike, even a short one. They cover the things that turn a wrong turn or a twisted ankle into an unplanned night out.

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The Ten Essentials

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Also bring

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Before you leave

Tips

  • Start early. You get cooler temperatures, easier parking and more daylight in the bank.
  • Eat and drink a little every hour instead of waiting until you're hungry or thirsty.
  • If a storm builds, get off peaks and ridges and away from tall, lone trees.
Gear to look for

Water filter

A squeeze or straw filter is light and lets you refill from streams.

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Gear to look for

Daypack

A pack with a hip belt and a sleeve for a water bladder is comfortable all day.

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Gear to look for

Trekking poles

Collapsible poles save your knees on descents.

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