Hiking - Day / Night - Gear List

Adjust what you carry depending upon the length, duration, terrain and difficulty of your outing. For example a 1-mile hike will not require all that a 5-mile or a 10-mile hike will.

Day Pack
Get a pack large enough to carry what you need. You may want different size day-packs for different outings - for example a small pack for short hikes; a larger pack for longer outings.

Dress
Pants - synthetics made for hiking and outdoor use are best. Avoid cotton clothing, when it gets wet it stays wet
Shirt - synthetics made for hiking and outdoors use are best. Avoid cotton clothing, when it gets wet it stays wet
Socks - inserts and outer sock - use synthetic socks designed to keep you dry and warm
Underwear - long-johns if weather is cold (synthetic nylon or polyester)
Hat - for protection from the sun and for warmth (skull cap) at night
Gloves - essential for cold weather use; water-proof shell with inserts a good choice
Boots - hiking boots are important for comfort, stability and protection. Hightops which give ankle support are the best choice
Rain Clothes - a poncho can be used also (water proof cloths are essential). Rain clothes keep you dry and warm.

Hydration
Water - the most important item to have. Keep plenty, Drink often!
Water bottles - carry at least two bottles and refill regularly
Water-filter - essential for water re-supply
Water-bag - good for collecting water and having at campsites
Iodine Tablets - to assist in purifying water
Food Always carry plenty of food to eat - sandwiches, fruits, nuts, etc. Eat often to keep your energy level up. Do not wait to get hungry.

Safety
Maps - always know where you are and where you can go (learn to read topographical maps - get a book or take a class)
Compass - essential for finding your way (learn to read a compass get a book or take a class)
Altimeter - essential when traversing altitude
Hiking Poles - a must to distribute weight and stress from back, legs, knees and feet (essential for maintaining your health)
Flashlight and batteries - always carry even on day-hikes
Whistle - important for sounding warnings and alerts
First Aid Kit - must have
Cell Phone - can be use-full, also can be a nuisance
Radio and batteries - stay informed

Miscellaneous
Mosquito head-net - use during 'bug season'
Knife - A multipurpose knife is essential
Toilet Tissue - for those special times
Camp Shovel - to did holes and to cover the results of your comfort stops (the shovel can be plastic for lightness of weight) Zip-loc bags - use for food, trash bags, urinals
Bug Repellant - essential during some seasons and some locations
Camera - document your outings.
Journal - document your outings. A micro-cassette, portable and lightweight, works well
Binoculars - there is a lot to be seen in the outdoors. Binoculars help. Guide books - bird guides, plant guides, insect guides, geology guides can assist you in enjoying and learning about the environment you are in.

Notes:
Hiking is an excellent way to develop and maintain cardio and aerobic health. Hike often and go further for better health and enjoyment.

Journey: African American Outdoor Sports Association