2024 has been my year of saying, “YES!” to new adventures! One of the adventures I’ve said yes to was hiking! Back in May, I went on my very first hike in Shenandoah National Park located in Virginia. We hiked Rose River and Dark Hollow Falls, and can I just tell you, I FELL IN LOVE WITH hiking on this trip! Never in a million years would I think of myself as a girl who would enjoy camping and hiking. But here I am, writing a blog post outlining the ultimate newbie hiker’s checklist!

Kickstart Your Adventures: Hiking Gear Essentials for Newbie Hikers

If you haven’t tried hiking yet, you’re missing out on a fantastic adventure. It’s not just a walk in the park—it’s a chance to immerse yourself in nature, challenge yourself, and have a great time. I know that picking the right gear and figuring out what to pack can feel daunting, but don’t worry, I’m here to help. One of my close friends is an experienced hiker and has guided me through all my hiking questions. Now, I’m here to be your go-to guide. Let’s break it down together and get you ready for your first outdoor adventure!

This blog post is referencing day hikes, so I have omitted any camping gear.  I highly suggest researching the climate of the location you will be hiking in, and have the proper gear for those weather elements. 

The Ultimate Newbie Hiker’s Checklist

Footwear:

First things first—your footwear! The right boots will make or break your hike. They need to be comfy and sturdy, with great traction for those tricky trails. And because the weather during a hiking adventure can be unpredictable, waterproof is the way to go!

I have these hiking boots  and I LOVE them! These boots kept my feet nice and dry in the rain and while walking through streams. They also provide great ankle support and are very comfy. The boots I own are currently unavailable, but here is a similar pair.

As far as socks go, you will want to wear a sock designed for hiking with extra cushion on the sole. If you are planning a hike in the winter, thicker, wool socks are the way to go. For a spring/summer hike, you can opt for a lightweight hiking sock.

Dressing for Success

One of my favorite questions, “What am I going to wear?”. Weather can be unpredictable, right? Depending on the day and time of year you are hiking in, you’ll likely face many different versions of the weather in one hike. Layering is key: start with moisture-wicking clothes, add some warmth with an insulating layer, and top it off with a waterproof jacket. Every layer serves its purpose, you can also remove a layer while on the trail or add an additional layer. And don’t forget your hat and sunglasses for sun protection—super important!

I currently have this raincoat. It served it’s purpose on my last hike, but I will definitely be upgrading to a raincoat with vents, like this one!

Your Backpack

Now, your backpack—your portable treasure chest! It should fit like a dream and have enough space for all your essentials. Think water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and maybe a light jacket—keep it light and organized.

My backpack is 35L, it fits A LOT! I have this bag, except in pink. This one comes with a rain cover, which is a MUST have in my opinion.  A tip I have for you, especially if this is your first hike, pack your backpack, and see how heavy it is, BEFORE you go out on a hike. I was a little extra and walked on my treadmill with my packed backpack to get a feel for the weight I was going to be carrying.

Stay Hydrated, My Friends!

Stay hydrated, my friends! Water is your best bud on the trail. Pack a reusable bottle or hydration bladder and aim for at least two liters for a day hike. Remember, if you’re thirsty, sip away—dehydration is no fun! I also make sure to pack a post-hike hydration drink with electrolytes to drink once I get back to the car.

Fuel Up Smart!

Fuel up smart! Forget the chips—think nuts, energy bars, dried fruit, or a good ol’ pb & j sandwich.

These are a few of my favorite hiking snacks: fruit strips, tropical trail mix, yogurt covered raisins, banana chips, a few pieces of chocolate and beef jerky, (I like Archer’s , Chomp’s, and Epic Bars.)

Navigating Like a Pro

Find a friend that knows where they are going, and hike with them! Haha. My hiking buddy always knows the way, but in the event you don’t have a friend with a great sense of direction, or you hiking on a unguided trail, have a map and compass handy, even if you love your smartphone apps. Your phone’s great, but knowing how to read a map is a skill that’s golden on any adventure.

Safety First, Ladies!

Safety first, ladies! Pack a basic first-aid kit—it’s your hiking BFF. A multi-tool’s handy too, like your very own Swiss Army knife! We ran into a situation on our last hike, and needed TWINE!

PERSONAL HYGIENE

When heading out for a day hike, it’s important to consider how you’ll handle bathroom breaks while staying environmentally conscious. Using a pee cloth or packing out your toilet paper are great ways to practice Leave No Trace principles. A pee cloth is a reusable, antimicrobial cloth that can be used instead of toilet paper, reducing waste and keeping the trail clean. If you prefer to use toilet paper, remember to pack it out in a sealed bag to avoid leaving any litter behind. By being mindful of our impact, we can ensure the beauty of nature remains for everyone to enjoy!

Ready to Rock Your Hike?

Ready to rock your hike? With the right gear, you’ll be unstoppable! Every step is a chance to grow and discover something new. So gear up, step outside, and let the adventure begin! The trails are calling, and trust me, you’re ready for it! Happy hiking, ladies—you’ve got this! I am so excited for you to experience this new adventure!

 

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