Are you planning your first solo day hike and feeling overwhelmed with what to bring? Don’t worry, I’ve got your back.

I’ve spent the past eight years hiking and backpacking solo across iconic trails including the Pacific Crest Trail, John Muir Trail, and Everest Basecamp. As a solo female hiker and backpacking coach, I’ve dialed in exactly what gear you need for a safe, comfortable and confident day hike.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through:

  • What I bring for a day hike
  • How I pack my day hiking backpack
  • Essential gear for safety, comfort and solo hiking confidence

Let’s dive in!

Day Hike Gear Checklist: What I Bring on Every Hike

The gear I bring depends on location, time of year, weather and trail conditions. Here’s my go-to list of day hiking essentials, especially for summer hiking in places like Montana.

Navigation

Hydration & Water Filtration

Food & Snacks

  • Snack every 1–2 hours while hiking
  • A full lunch for longer hikes
  • Extra meal/snacks: always pack for the unexpected!

Pro Tip: Bring food you’re excited to eat. If it’s not tasty, you’re less likely to eat it.

Clothing System: What I Wear + What I Pack

Hiking Clothes (Worn)

Packed Clothing Layers

Always be prepared for sudden weather changes. Even in summer.

The Day Pack I Use: Gossamer Gear Loris 25

A frameless, 25L pack that’s light (under 20 oz) and functional. Features include:

  • Large external mesh pocket
  • Two side mesh pockets for water bottles/water filter
  • Hydration reservoir sleeve
  • Over-the-top closure
  • Shoulder strap pockets (for bear spray and Garmin)

Bonus: My Fanny Pack

Instead of hipbelt pockets, I use a Thru Pack Summit Bum for:

10 Essentials for Every Day Hike

Every hiker should carry the Ten Essentials, especially if you’re solo hiking:

  1. Navigation (onX Backcountry + paper map for backup)
  2. Sun Protection (hat, hoodie, sunglasses, SPF)
  3. Insulation (extra layers)
  4. Illumination (headlamp)
  5. First Aid Kit (Click here to see how I made mine)
  6. Fire (storm proof matches + fire starter)
  7. Repair Tools (knife, krazy glue, tenacious tape, duct tape)
  8. Extra Food
  9. Extra Water
  10. Emergency Shelter (emergency bivy)

Carrying the 10 Essentials might seem like overkill, but they can save your life in an emergency.

Personal Safety Gear I Never Hike Without

Bear Spray

Essential in Montana’s grizzly country. Always carry it where it’s accessible, not buried inside your pack!

Garmin inReach Mini 2

My must-have for solo hiking. This satellite messenger let’s me:

  • Communicate via 2-way messages (even in remote areas)
  • Track my route for friends/family at home
  • Access SOS services

Phone + Power Bank

Keep your phone in Airplane Mode to conserve battery. Always bring a fully charged portable power bank to charge electronics while you’re out on trail.

Bug Protection

Don’t get eaten alive. My bug repellent system includes:

Poop Kit: Leave No Trace

My hiking poop kit includes:

How I Pack My Day Hiking Backpack

Here’s how I organize my gear for comfort and easy access:

Inside My Pack

  • Bottom: Puffy jacket, fleece dress, rain jacket
  • Middle: Food bag, first aid kit, repair/tool kit
  • Along the Spine: Hydration reservoir (2L)
  • Hydration Tube threaded through pack hole

Outside Pockets

  • Side Pockets: Water filter + electrolyte bottle
  • Front Mesh Pocket: Poop kit, bug repellant
  • Shoulder Straps: Bear spray + Garmin
  • Fanny Pack: Wallet, phone, camera, keys, snacks

Packing Tip: Everything has its place. Knowing where your gear is = more confidence on trail.

Final Thoughts: Confidence Comes from Being Prepared

What I pack for a day hike isn’t about cramming my bag with the most gear. It’s about packing smart, staying safe and being ready for the unexpected.

As a solo hiker, this is how I feel prepared and confident on the trail, EVERY TIME!

What’s the one thing YOU always bring on a hike? Drop a comment below. I’d love to hear!

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