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Big Bear Hiking Adventures

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10 essentials of hiking

10 ESSENTIALS OF HIKING

10 Things to Bring With You on a Hike

Before heading out on any trail, it’s important to be properly prepared. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned hiker, having the 10 essentials for hiking with you can make a huge difference. These key items help you stay safe, comfortable, and ready for the unexpected.

For example, weather can change quickly in the mountains, even on short hikes. Therefore, packing the right gear is a must. At Big Bear Hiking Adventures, we carry much of what you need for your hike so you don’t have to. Click here to find out what you should where and bring on your BBHA guided hike.

When out trekking on your own, we encourage everyone to understand and carry these hiking essentials. They include tools for navigation, weather protection, first aid, and more. Most importantly, they give you peace of mind so you can focus on enjoying the outdoors. On this page, we list the 10 essentials for hiking.

Flat lay of essential emergency survival kit items including first aid and water bottles.

10 Essentials of Hiking

1. Navigation: map (both paper and digital)

2. Headlamp

3. Sun Protection (UV rays are more potent at elevation)

4. First Aid

5. Knife/Multi-tool

6. Fire Starter

7. Shelter

8. Extra Food

9. Extra Water

10. Extra Layers

Packing the 10 essentials for hiking helps you stay particularly prepared and confident on any trail. As a result, you’ll be better equipped to handle unexpected changes, minor injuries, or delays.

These items are not just for long trek. In fact, they’re useful on any hike. Although your tour guide may supply some gear, you’ll likely need to bring a few essentials yourself. To avoid surprises, ask for a packing list when you make your reservation. That way, you’ll know exactly what to expect. With the right equipment and a little planning, your hike will be safer and more enjoyable. Above all, our team at Big Bear Hiking Adventures wants to help you have a fun, memorable, and stress-free experience outdoors.

If you have any questions, please contact us any time.

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Big Bear Hiking AdventuresLogo Header Menu
  • Choose Your Adventure
    • Special Events
    • Events Calendar
    • Featured Hikes
    • Snowshoeing
    • Women’s Gatherings
  • Plan Your Adventure
    • Sign Your Waiver
    • Price Your Adventure
    • FAQs
    • What to Wear and Bring
    • Gear Recommendations
  • About
    • Meet your Guide
    • Trail Etiquette
    • 10 Essentials of Hiking
    • Partners
    • Volunteer Opportunities
  • Contact
    • Contact
  • Blog
    • Trail Shaunanigans
  • BOOK NOW
    • Book Special Event
    • Book Featured Hike
  • Instagram
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