Women’s Essentials to Day Hiking
Day hiking is a simple and cheap activity that can have many benefits. It can help you improve overall health by burning calories and increasing your energy levels. Along with many other health benefits, its also a great way to relieve stress, elevate your mood, and help you appreciate nature. It’s also a great way to spend time outdoors with family or friends.
Let me share with you some of my favorite women’s day hiking gear, and lets get you moving!
Osprey Tempest 20
Women's Day Hiking Pack
This backpack is extremely light and comfortable to wear. It holds about 20 liters; enough room to carry all your essentials. The backpack hugs your body, but still allows for ventilation against your back, making this an extremely breathable backpack. The aluminum rods transfer the weight from the harness to the hipbelt making this a very light backpack to carry.
Features I Love
- Lightweight
- Loads from the Top
- Side Stretch Mesh Pockets
- Helmet attachment
- Trekking Pole Attachment
- Great Lumbar Support
- Cool Against Your Back
- Large Mesh Front Pocket
- Two Hipbelt Zippered Pockets
- External Hydration Sleeve
Specs
Depending on Which Size You Purchase
Weight: 1 pound 8.5 oz – 10.2 oz
Adjustable Torso Length: 13 – 20 inches
Fits Waist/Hips: 27 – 44 inches
Material: Nylon
Number of Exterior Pockets: 7
Dimensions: 17 x 11 x 11 inches
Black Diamond Distance Z or Alpine FLZ Trekking Poles
I prefer carbon fiber trekking poles, as aluminum can be a little heavier; but these Black Diamond Distance Z Trekking Poles are still pretty light. I love that you can fold them up into three sections, making it great to pack (but not in your carry-on luggage). They are also quick and easy to set up, adjustable, lightweight, and yet durable to hold your weight on them. For a sturdier, more expensive version, you can try the Alpine FLZ ersion of this line.
Features I Love
- Aluminum Contruction
- Foldable in 3 Sections
- Quick and Easy Set-Up
- Easy Lock In Place Position
- Lightweight
- Moisture Wicking Grip Handles
- Easy To Carry in Checked Luggage
- Interchangeable Rubber Tips
- Shaft Catchers Secure Poles When Folded
- Help Minimize Impact
Specs
Depending on Which Size You Purchase
Weight: 12.1 oz – 14.2 oz
Usable Length: 39 – 51 inches
Collapsed Length: 13 – 17 inches
prAna Women's Halle Pant
I love, love, love these pants! They are so comfortable to wear, you will want to wear them every day. They come in seven different colors. They are water repellent, which is great if caught in a little rain or walking through streams. Water just beads up and rolls off. They fit just a little larger and longer, so maybe go down one size from your normal jeans. They do have a drawstring inside to pull them tighter if needed; and they fit above your waist. The material is very cool in summer, yet warm in winter. You can raise the pant leg up and buckle it at the knee for a quick capri-style look. For a zippered version to remove the pant below the knee, you can buy the Convertible version of this pant. They are UPF rated and dry pretty quick if they get wet, or you need to wash them overnight. They have back pockets, front pockets, and a side pocket at your upper leg (great for credit cards, money, etc). Try them, you won’t be disappointed.
Features I Love
- Extremely Comfortable
- Water Repellent
- Quick Drying
- Roll Up and Button at the Knee for a Capri Look
- Slight Boot Leg Look
- Trouser Style
- UPF 50 +
- Stretchy Zion Fabric
- Lots of Pockets
- Wrinkle Resistant
- Relaxed Fit
- Abrasion Resistant
- Mid Rise
Specs
Material: 97% Nylon and 3 % Spandex
Weight: 12.2 oz
Under Armour Twist V-Neck Short Sleeve Women's Shirt
V-necks are great, as I can’t stand anything around my neck. If you like, they have the normal U-shaped also. These shirts are so soft and comfortable to wear. I love that it wicks away sweat and dries quickly. Perfect for washing and drying overnight. Less to pack, and that’s always a plus in my book! They come in a number of colors, with graphics and without. Lightweight and easy to pack.
Under Armour also carries my favorite line of hiking shorts with pockets. Easy to wash and wear the next day, lightweight to pack, and super comfortable. Or you could try the Patagonia Nine Trail shorts.
Features I Love
- Anti-Odor Technology
- Ultra Soft
- Wicks Away Sweat
- Relaxed Fit
- Quick Drying
- Lightweight
- Easy to Pack
- Cool on Your Skin
- Fits to Your Hips
Specs
Material: 100 % Polyester
Merrell Moab 2 WP Low Women's Hiking Shoes
Super comfortable shoe that comes in a wide size too, if you need it. Made out of super durable leather; you never feel the rocks under your feet as you hike. This gives you great cushion and support. I love the reinforced toes so you don’t feel rocks and debris you may hit with your toes as you are going downhill; or things you may stump on your way up. Make sure you get a snug fit with just a little room for foot swelling, but still not allow your foot to move too much in the shoe. Merrell makes a low hiking shoe and you can get a higher hiking boot if you’d like a little more ankle support. They come in a waterproof version, great for hiking streams. I love these shoes, they are my go to shoes for hiking every day trails.
If you prefer a different look higher boot, check out the Danner Inquire Chukka Mid Hiking Boot.
Features I Love
- Super Comfortable Out of the Box
- Waterproof
- Protective Rubber Toe
- Suede Leather
- Breathable
- Good Arch and Heel Support
- Mesh Uppers
- Heel Air Cushions to Absorb Shock
Specs
Materials:
Performance Suede Leather and Mesh Uppers
Protective Rubber Toe Caps
Waterproof Breathable Membrane/Mesh
Nylon Arch Shank
Outsole Vibram Rubber
Weight: 1 pound 12 oz.
Darn Tough Micro Crew Women's Hiker Socks
Comfortable merino wool sock (if merino wool can feel comfortable). It is pre-shrunk and wicks away moisture. The socks are very breathable and help regulate temperatures in various conditions. They have a reinforced heel and toe. You can buy them in all colors and sizes; from a no show tab sock to an over-the-calf size sock. It’s best to wash these inside out in warm water on gentle cycle though, and tumble dry on low heat.
For a shorter and lighter version, I also like the Smartwool PhD Outdoor Light Mini Sock.
Features I Love
- Quick Drying
- Wicks Away Moisture
- No Slipping or Bunching
- Ultra Light
- Breathable
- Repels Bacteria and Odor
- Undetectable Seams
- No Blisters or Sores
Specs
Materials: 59% Merino Wool/ 39% nylon/ 2% Lycra Spandex
The North Face Venture 2 Women's Jacket
This lightweight rain jacket is perfect to pack in your luggage. Always a good idea for those unexpected weather changes. They also have zippered rain pants if you are interested. I love that this jacket has a relaxed fit to it, and I can wear lots of layers under it without it feeling uncomfortable. It’s waterproof, breathable, and windproof. It has an adjustable hood that you can tighten down snuggly. The front pockets fit naturally to your hands, relaxed at your sides; and are zippered. It comes to about hip level, which I really like. It also is completely stowable, with a hand pocket if needed.
Features I Love
- Waterproof
- Hands Lay at Your Sides When Their in the Pockets
- Fits Comfortably
- Zippered Pockets
- Stowable in a Hand Pocket
- Lightweight
- Pit-Zip Venting Breathability
- Unlined
- Zipped and Velcro Front Closure
- Breathable
- Adjustable Hood with Drawstring
- Windproof
- Great Fit Down to Your Hips
- Relaxed Fit
Specs
Materials: Ripstop Nylon
DryVent 2.5 Layer Waterproof Breathable Laminate
Body Glide
A great little anti-chafe balm that every hiker should carry. It’s small, pocket-size, and TSA travel-friendly. It glides on easily like deodorant, but its for all of those little areas that you get blisters on; like thighs, ankles, toes, feet, neck, and arms. Make sure you follow packaging directions for application and apply to intact skin only. It forms an invisible barrier to protect your skin and is safe on all clothing, footwear, and even your swimsuit. It allows your skin to breath and doesn’t clog pores. It’s water resistant, but will wash off with mild soap. It lasts all day long in humid and dry conditions. Prevention to blister-free, no irritation, or raw skin is worth it!*
Features I Love
- TSA Travel Friendly Size
- Safe on Clothing, Shoes, and Swimwsuits
- Prevents Blisters, Irritations, and Raw Skin
- Doesn't Clog Pores
- Great Blister Barrier Device on Intact Skin
- Allows Your Skin To Breath
- Water Resistant
- Lasts All Day Long
- Glides on Easily
Specs
Volume: 0.35 fluid ounces Weight: 0.5 ounces
So What Other Essentials Should You Pack
- Extra Clothing to Dress in Layers
- Plenty of Food and Snacks (protein and carb packed snacks)
- Water (more than you think you need)
- First-Aid Kit (in my kit I make sure it has lots of sizes of regular and water-proof band-aids, antiseptic wipes, ace wrap, gauze, tape, gloves, safety pins, tweezers, tick remover, scissors, duct tape, mole skin, tourniquet, sling, CPR mask, warming blanket, and small labeled prepackaged basic medications like: antibiotic ointment, antihistamines, each type of pain reliever, anti-itch creams, aloe, antacids, antidiarrheals, etc.)*
- Knife and Multi-Tool Kit with Scissors
- Navigation Tools (map, compass, GPS/Satellite communicator)
- Cell Phone Chargers
- Extra Memory Cards and Camera Batteries
- Flashlight and/or Headlamp
- Insect Repellent (BOTH mosquito and tick)*
- Fire Starter (matches, lighter, etc)
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen (including lip balm sunscreen)(even in winter and snow)
- Wet Wipes and Disinfecting Wipes
- Lotion
- Chap Stick
- Kleenex
- Hand Sanitizer
- Watch
- Beauty Supplies (hair brush, non-pulling hair bands, bobby pins, small nail file, hairspray, etc)
- Trash Bag and Zip Lock Baggies (be sure to pack out everything and not leave anything behind)
- Small amount of Cash
- Any weather related gear if needed (coat, hat, water-proof gloves, etc)
- Water Purification and/or Filtration System
Never hike alone, or let someone know where you will be and when you plan to return home. Also make sure all food supplies are tightly sealed and put away so you are not attracting wildlife. Have fun!
*Disclaimers: Product descriptions and specs are based off various sources. Please consult product manufacturers and packaging directions for current information and any usage details. This site has no affiliation with any of the products or links provided, no relationship exists, and no compensation is provided. All information is provided for educational and informational purposes only and are not intended to serve as medical or professional advice. Please consult your physician for your particular needs, or if you have any questions or concerns. By using information on this site, you (or your representative) agree and understand that this site (and its owner) disclaim any and all responsibility or liability and will provide no liability for any damages, losses, or injuries that may occur.
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Do You Have A Favorite Piece of Hiking Gear or Something Else You Like to Pack?
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Casey | 5th Feb 20
THIS is one of the many reasons I love this woman. I’m going hiking in WA again in June. I always forget something. This list is being printed as I speak! Thank you for posting.
To your readers, I also like Eddie Bauer’s women’s hiking pant, Horizon Capris. I’m 5ft. exactly and they offer short (me), regular or long. They have a cinch tie at the lower knee and have lots of pockets (for my cell and nuts or other energy treats). Also, they dry quickly and are very light! Use Bauer20 for 20% off and get them for $34. They also double as workout pants because they have a slight stretch to them. I love these shorts/pants.
I will look into your shoe recommendation. Turns out, (my) running shoes do not double as hiking shoes! I have some hiking Sorel boots (I tend to hike when it’s cold – thank you, 75% off Saint Bernard’s – check out your outlet stores). They keep my ankle in place during the steep inclines. Again, I’m 5ft tall, you lovely gazelles probably don’t need ankle stabilization 🙂
Love your article! Great tips for us gals 🙂
Journey Jitters | 5th Feb 20
Thank you! I love your tips too. I’m going to have to try those Eddie Bauer Women’s Hiking pants now. Always great to share clothing and tips we love.