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Hiking Checklist

4.7/5 with 124 votes
Table of Contents

Introduction

Use this Hiking Checklist when going on your next trip:

Save the full checklist and customize it later.

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  • Preparation
  • Break in your shoes
    Hiking shoes feel different than regular shoes or sneakers. Wear them for a few days to accustom your feet so you don't get blisters.
  • Practice carrying a load
    Take a few walks with your backpack. Having a heavy load on your back takes getting used to.
  • Warm up
    Hiking is not like walking, it is far more demanding on your legs and back. Your calves and hamstrings need preparation for this vigorous exercise.
  • Get experience
    If you have never hiked before, you might come to regret taking on a long demanding trail, so start off easy. If you are planning on taking a walking stick with you, learn how to handle the stick to your benefit.
  • Gear / Equipment
  • Hiking shoes or boots
    Without the right shoes your feet will suffer. It is best to select shoes with a thick sole for stability and comfort, and check for proper ankle support. Boots are best for mountain climbing or water crossings.
  • Backpack
    For a day-trip you will need a place to store essentials.
  • Food and water
    Hiking will made you hungry and thirsty. Be sure to pack some fruit, nuts, and energy bars.
  • Walking stick
    Not really necessary, but handy to have, if you know how to use it effectively.
  • Rope
    You never know when you may need it.
  • Matches
    If you end up needing a fire, you will need a way to start it. Store these in a waterproof case.
  • Things to Pack
  • Personal identification
    It's always good to have ID on you with the name and phone number of a contact person.
  • Sunscreen.
    Regardless of the season, in the outdoor your skin needs protection
  • Bug repellent.
    If you wear short sleeves or shorts, you really need this item!
  • Extra clothes and socks
    An extra T-shirt and socks weigh nothing but can come in handy.
  • First Aid
    Scrapes and cuts are common in the outdoors.
  • Communication
    Take your cell phone with you. If anything were to happen, you can call for help.
  • Camera
    There will be lots to see during your hike. Preserve the memories.
  • Map of the trail or surrounding areas
    This can be invaluable in case you get lost.
  • Compass
    Sometimes you need a little extra direction.
  • GPS
    A navigational tool may be for sissies - but it could save your life.
  • Safety Tips
  • Respect your boundaries
    If you get tired, take a break; you don't want to wear yourself out. It takes time to be an experienced hiker.
  • Don't wander off the trail
    Those trails are laid out for a reason. They are designed to keep you safe. Random hiking in the wilderness is for the experienced.
  • Stay together
    If you hike in company, stay with the group.
  • Familiarize yourself with danger
    Know which plants and bugs are poisonous.
  • Know your enemy
    Find out what wildlife might be in the area (rattlesnakes, bear, wild cats, elk or boar) and how to react appropriately.

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Presented by:

Nicole Nichols-West

Nicole Nichols-West
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Details

Hiking is an excellent way to experience the great outdoors. It gives your body the exercise it needs by opening you lungs, getting your heart rate going and giving your muscles a workout. Seeing how hiking is physically demanding, hikers should be in reasonable fit condition before setting off on their first trail. If your body is up to the challenge, your mind is surely to benefit of the experience.  Even though hiking is exhausting for the body, for the inner self nothing is quite as relaxing.  Stress will as good as disappear once you set off on your adventure!

Hiking Checklist Tips

  • People who are new to hiking should start off with a fairly short and easy track. Demanding too much, too soon, could lead to injuries.
  • Equally important is the equipment you pack for the hike. Not much is needed for a short day hike, but what you take with you has to be of good quality. The most important pieces of gear for a hiker are his shoes. Without comfortable shoes, hiking can turn into a nightmare. Also, wear long pants or slather on bug repellent if wearing shorts. Take a light windbreaker or jacket even if the weather is warm.
  • Taking food and water along on your hike is equally important. You'll be burning energy, and might need to refuel. A small snack could make all the difference to your blood sugar.
  • If you hike in high altitudes, take it easy. You can easily get altitude sickness if you overexert on your first fee times out! Don't forget to let someone know where you are going, and have a backup plan in case you run into trouble on your hike.
  • Last but not least, don’t forget to enjoy your hike. Whether you are alone or in company, you are in the fresh air and surrounded by the beauty and wonder of nature. Be sure to pay attention to everything around you to avoid danger, and enjoy the outdoors.

Prepare Your Body for the Hike

A hiking checklist helps with gear, but a short movement routine can also help before or after a long walk. Use the Stretch Routine App to build a simple stretching routine for your legs, hips, and back.

For stiffness after travel, climbing, or long days outdoors, the Mobility Workout App can help you create a reusable mobility routine.

Who it's for

This Hiking Checklist is for anyone who wants a simple, practical way to get things done without missing steps.

  • Avoid forgetting - keep all your Hiking essentials in one place (external memory)
  • Save time - start from a proven Hiking structure instead of a blank page
  • Stay on track - track progress, come back later, and keep momentum
  • Coordinate with others - share the list and divide responsibilities
  • Learn the process - follow the steps in a sensible order, even if it's your first time

How to use it

How to use this Hiking Checklist

  • Save Hiking Checklist to your free Checklist account so your progress is saved and synced across devices.
  • Customize it in the app: remove anything that does not apply, then add your own details for Hiking (dates, sizes, addresses, notes).
  • If others are involved, invite them to collaborate and divide responsibilities.
  • Work through the list: check items off as you go, and set reminders for time-sensitive steps.

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