Hiking Packing List: What to Bring and How to Save Money

Por: Huillca Expedition

Hiking is one of the best ways to connect with nature, but poor packing planning can turn the experience into an unnecessary challenge. Carrying too much weight, forgetting essential items, or using the wrong gear can affect both performance and safety on the trail.

This guide provides a detailed list of essential hiking gear and money-saving tips without compromising quality.

Backpack and Gear Organization

Choosing the right backpack is crucial for efficient weight distribution and avoiding discomfort in the back and shoulders.

How to Choose the Right Backpack

Recommended Capacity:

• Day hikes (1 day): 20L - 30L
• Multi-day treks: 40L - 60L
• Long expeditions (+7 days): 65L - 90L

Key Features:

• Adjustable hip belt and shoulder straps to distribute weight properly.
• Water-resistant material or rain cover to keep gear dry.

💰 Money-saving tip: Buy backpacks from outdoor outlet stores, second-hand shops, or wait for seasonal discounts.

Proper Hiking Clothing

Hiking clothing should be suitable for the weather, ensuring both comfort and protection.

Recommended Clothing List:

• Breathable, quick-dry shirts
• Trekking pants (waterproof for rainy conditions)
• Windproof and waterproof jacket
• Thermal base layers for cold weather
• Hiking socks (avoid cotton to prevent blisters)
• Hat, gloves, and buff for cold temperatures
• Sunglasses and a cap for sun protection

💰 Money-saving tip: Buy clothing during sales seasons or choose less commercial brands with good reviews.

Best Hiking Footwear

Footwear is one of the most important gear choices, as the wrong shoes can cause blisters, fatigue, or even injuries.

Footwear by Terrain Type:

• Easy trails: Lightweight hiking shoes with a non-slip sole.
• Rough or mountainous terrain: Mid or high-cut hiking boots for better ankle support.
• Snowy or wet conditions: Waterproof boots with Gore-Tex or similar membrane.

💰 Money-saving tip: Avoid luxury brands and look for clearance sales or well-maintained second-hand options.

Camping Gear (Optional for Multi-Day Treks)

If the trek includes overnight stays, having lightweight and functional camping equipment is essential.

Recommended Camping Gear:

• Ultralight tent
• Sleeping bag suited to the destination’s temperature
• Sleeping pad or insulated mat
• Portable stove and lightweight cooking utensils

💰 Money-saving tip: If you camp only occasionally, renting gear from outdoor stores is often cheaper than buying.

Food and Hydration for Hiking

Maintaining proper nutrition and hydration is key to sustaining energy levels throughout the hike.

Essential Items:

• Reusable water bottle or hydration system (CamelBak)
• Water purification tablets or portable water filter
• High-energy snacks like nuts, protein bars, and chocolate
• Freeze-dried or canned food for multi-day treks

💰 Money-saving tip: Buy snacks from supermarkets before the hike instead of expensive tourist-area stores.

Additional Hiking Accessories and Equipment

• Trekking poles to reduce knee impact
• Headlamp with extra batteries
• Multi-tool knife or survival knife
• Sunscreen and insect repellent
• Toilet paper and waste bags (Leave No Trace principle)

💰 Money-saving tip: Purchase accessories in bundles or survival kits from camping stores.

Essential First Aid Kit for Hiking

A basic first aid kit is crucial for handling emergencies on the trail.

Recommended First Aid Items:

• Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medication
• Bandages, gauze, and medical tape
• Antiseptic for wounds
• Personal medications (if applicable)
• Blister patches

💰 Money-saving tip: Assembling a custom first aid kit by buying items individually is cheaper than pre-packaged kits.

Lightweight and Safe Hiking Packing List

Item	Essential	Optional	Approx. Weight
Hiking backpack	✅ Yes	❌ No	1-2 kg
Hiking boots/shoes	✅ Yes	❌ No	1-1.5 kg
Waterproof jacket	✅ Yes	❌ No	300-500 g
Trekking pants	✅ Yes	❌ No	200-400 g
First aid kit	✅ Yes	❌ No	200 g
Trekking poles	❌ No	✅ Yes	250-500 g
Tent	❌ No	✅ Yes	1.5-2.5 kg
Sleeping bag	❌ No	✅ Yes	800 g - 1.5 kg
Headlamp	✅ Yes	❌ No	100 g
Food and water	✅ Yes	❌ No	1-2 kg

Carrying light and functional gear prevents overloading and enhances the hiking experience.

Common Packing Mistakes for Hiking

• Carrying too much weight, making movement difficult and causing fatigue.
• Not testing footwear before the hike, which can lead to blisters.
• Not planning hydration properly, resulting in running out of drinking water.
• Failing to check the weather forecast, leading to inappropriate clothing choices.

By following these packing tips, you can hike safely, comfortably, and cost-effectively.