More and more people are opting for a staycation this year and it’s great to explore your home country landscape. If you’re planning to hike a mountain as part of your trip, and it’s not something you’re experienced in doing, this list will help you to be prepared. Here’s my list of mountain hiking essential kit.
Your essential mountain hiking kit list
Footwear
Footwear is the most essential thing to get right when planning your mountain hiking kit. This year there have been so many reports of people needing to call Mountain Rescue because they’ve attempted to climb a mountain in flip-flops. Don’t be one of those people. Trainers aren’t a good idea either, as the terrain can be rocky and you don’t want to ruin your trip with a sprained ankle. Here’s what you need:
Waterproof hiking boots with ankle support
Mountain hiking routes are typically rocky and uneven, so it’s important to make sure you have hiking boots with ankle support. I have Keen Terradora Waterproof Hiking Boots (read my review here) – they are the most comfortable boots I’ve found and I swear by them.
Hiking socks
It’s important to wear hiking socks as they have additional cushioning in the sole, for increased comfort if you’re walking a long way. Merino wool hiking socks regulate temperature and are breathable, so I usually opt for these. It’s a good idea to pack an extra pair in case your first pair get wet, as damp socks are more likely to cause blisters.
Layers are essential mountain hiking kit
Mountain weather is unbelievably changeable. You can set off in bright, warm sunshine and end up freezing cold in heavy rain and gale-force wind. So it’s essential to be prepared for anything, even if the mountain forecast says the weather will be fine. Lots of light layers in your mountain hiking kit will give you the flexibility you need and won’t be too heavy to carry. You’ll need:
T-shirt or base layer
Any technical t-shirt will make a good first layer – you want something light and breathable as your body temperature will vary according to the changing terrain. I prefer a merino wool base layer as merino is excellent at temperature regulation and controlling body odour. You can wear one of these for a several days of trekking and the t-shirt won’t smell bad.
Fleece
Even if the weather is warm at the base of the mountain, don’t make the mistake of leaving a warm mid-layer behind. Mountain weather can be extremely changeable so, whilst you may start off in 30*C sunshine, the summit might be 5*C and windy. I have a couple of North Face fleeces which are lightweight and warm.
Down Jacket
Down jackets are incredibly lightweight and scrunch up impressively small in your bag, so taking one of these is a must. It won’t add much to the weight of your pack, but you’ll be glad to have it at a cold mountain summit. One of these is always worth the investment, particularly for any travel with luggage limits.
Waterproof jacket
You can get jackets that are both warm and waterproof, however I recommend getting separate jackets and layering up. On a mountain hike this will help you to wear the right layers for the changing weather, so you don’t get too hot or cold.
Make sure you take a good waterproof jacket as, if you get wet, you’ll get cold – and it’s a long way down from the top of a mountain.
Accessories
Warm hat
Pack a warm beanie hat, without a bobble so that it fits underneath your jacket hood if necessary. If the weather turns, you’ll be glad you did.
Waterproof gloves
I always take a pair of waterproof gloves with me on any mountain hike. The weather can be unpredictable so rain is usually likely. Any gloves are better than no gloves, but wool will become cold very quickly if it rains. I have a pair of Sealskins gloves (read my review here) and I love them.
Sunglasses
Backpack for your essential kit
You’ll need a comfortable backpack to carry your essential mountain hiking kit. I like Osprey packs as they have plenty of padding and hip straps, which take the strain away from your shoulders. These will last for years. 20 Litres should be plenty for a day hike up a mountain.
If the backpack isn’t waterproof, make sure you take a waterproof backpack cover as well.
Drinks and Snacks
How much water you’ll need will vary person to person but, although it is heavy, it’s far better to have too much than not enough. If you’re hiking a steep mountain incline you’ll need plenty to drink. Take at least one litre, most people will need more!
Snacks are also important for keeping your energy levels up. You don’t want to run out of steam and collapse! Take a sandwich for lunch plus plenty of high-protein cereal bars, nuts and dried fruits.
First Aid Kit
Don’t forget to pack a basic first aid kit. Paracetamol, plasters, antiseptic wipes, hand sanitiser, antihistamine, and a small mountain whistle should cover the basics. Plus spares of any regular medication you take.
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