Day Hike in Europe Gear List

You’re off on a day hike in Europe. The most important question is what to pack and how to stay comfortable. This advice from Dev Randhawa will help.

First, consider:

• How long does the hike take on average?
• What is the altitude gain?
• What is the weather forecast?
• Will you be hiking by yourself?

Here are some tips for what to bring to stay warm, dry and happy when you’re out on a day hike.

• A day pack is the most essential piece of equipment for any hike.
• Water bottle, preferably with a loop in it to secure to the outside of your pack.
• Besides lunch and a fruit, bring along some nuts and chocolate for energy.
• Band-aids and antiseptic ointment in case of minor cuts and blisters.
• A charged cell phone in case you get lost.
• Camera
• Small notepad and pen
• Comfortable hiking shoes or boots, depending on the terrain of the hike.
• Two pairs of socks. Wearing two pairs of socks protects against blisters. If you are wearing boots, it’s extremely helpful to have one thin pair of socks for sweat-absorption underneath a thicker pair of socks that can be pulled up over your ankles.
• Comfortable trousers, zip-off trousers or long shorts that do not constrain your waist.
• A long sleeved shirt to protect against the sun, and a hat to protect your head and ears from too much sun.
• No matter what the weather looks like when you leave, pack a lightweight fleece and a lightweight rain jacket for inevitable sudden weather changes.