What to Pack for a Hike (Don’t Bother With These 6 Items)
After hundreds of hikes, I finally realized I’ve been carrying way too much stuff — and it’s slowing me down. In this video, I’m sharing 6 things I stopped packing in my day hiking kit, including one item most hikers consider “essential.” (Spoiler: you probably don’t need that giant water bottle.)
Whether you’re new to hiking or looking to lighten your load, these tips will help you pack smarter, hike faster, and actually enjoy the trail more.
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⭐CHAPTERS ⭐
00:00 Intro
00:39 Item #1
01:17 Item #2
01:53 Item #3
02:39 Item #4
03:19 Item #5
04:08 Item #6
04:39 Outro
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Okay, I really need to know: am I the only one not stressed about pooping on day hikes?!
I carry the 10 hiking essentials. Since Im an Arizonan, you wear your shade! No need for Sun screen. Dude Wipes are handy not only for #2 but general cleaning tasks, hands, face etc. Sorry not ditching my Leatherman anytime soon! There are lighter options out there. Also, I ALWAYS carry a 4” sheath blade. There’s an old Norse saying; “a knife-less man is a lifeless man.” Plus, a good fixed blade beats a folder EVERY TIME. You should look into the Maorakniv Eldris. Very functional blade and it weighs nothing, cheap $ too.
Water? Yea, I’m in AZ…..not an option here!
The ULTIMATE packing list for a DAY HIKE is as follows: GPS device, roll of toilet paper, ultralight chair, ultralight quilt, ultralight rain jacket, fanny pack, Glock, ultralight backpack cooler filled with ice, bottle of water, bottle of rum, favorite mixer, fire source, antibiotic ointment, sandwiches, and a machete. OPTIONAL items: guitar, spotting scope, dog. Things to LEAVE at home: trekking poles, phone, wife.
I justify the 3L as either to help my mates on trail if water falls short, or for rucking. I also love carrying too many flashlights.
I agree with all aside a poop kit !
Getting caught out without one can be both awkward and embarrassing.
No need for a full roll of paper, but half a roll and a trowel, definitely in my pack.
Water wise I usually take two 500ml standard shop bought bottles and a squeeze filter.
Here in southern Andalusia with our temperatures now rising above 30⁰c ( they’ll soon be up in the late 30s to mid 40s ) water is essential.