What to pack for a hiking holiday

Whether you are doing an epic 15-day hiking holiday, or trekking for a couple of days as part of a mixed itinerary, what to pack for a hiking holiday adds another level to the holiday packing dilemma! Below is a list of essentials to pack for a hiking holiday, which has been compiled based on my own experiences.

Rucksack

Whether it’s a day pack, or a large bag for you to carry all your belongings with you, make sure that you have a comfortable rucksack. Comfortable may seem like a strange way to describe a rucksack, however if you have a poor fitting rucksack for a hiking holiday your shoulders will know about it pretty quickly and it can make the experience miserable. I have had my Osprey day pack and large rucksack for a decade and they are a pleasure to carry.

NB: a handy extra is a waterproof cover in case you get stuck in rain and don’t want your belongings inside to get wet.

Hiking boots

It is essential on a hiking holiday to have proper well-fitting hiking boots. This item will make or break your experience so ensure you have tried out different types/sizes/styles to get the right ones for you. My current boots are Meindl Kansas, which are really comfortable, however I tried on many pairs before deciding on these and it was worth putting the time in. I recommend wearing boots that cover your ankles to protect yourself if you trip or twist over your ankles. In addition to getting the right footwear, make sure you break them in before your holiday so that they are super comfortable when you are in the wilderness.

Hiking Sandals

Excellent for warmer destinations, walking through water or resting your feet in the evenings, a good pair of hiking sandals are a great idea. I prefer ones that cover my toes as I have a tendency to stubb my toe, and have a pair of Teva sandals which are so old I don’t know what the model is anymore! However if you are less clumsy than me open toe ones are also great.

NB: if you are going to colder places like the Himalaya or the Huayhuash, you may want to bring normal trainers to rest your feet in the evenings as your feet may get too cold in sandals.

Trekking trousers

Comfortable, breathable and quick drying, specialist trekking trousers are an excellent addition to your hiking packing list. They are much better for this type of activity than heavier, slow-drying materials, such as jogging bottoms. For versatility I always take hiking trousers with zip off legs in case it warms up during the day and I wish I’d worn shorts.

Quick dry t-shirts

T-shirts that dry quickly, such as running or training tops, are a fabulous option. Materials that dry more slowly will make you very cold and miserable, and potentially ruin your enjoyment of the holiday.

Base layers

Base layers are absolutely vital for cold mornings and night times in mountainous regions like the Himalaya. You may end up having to change out of them at your lunch time stop as you warm up, but you’ll never regret bringing them to help you get moving in the morning. I always wear merino wool base layers, both top and bottom, and they have got me through many a cold morning in the mountains. 

Fleece

I love a fleece and always take one with me on a hiking holiday. Fleeces are an excellent option as they keep you warm but aren’t too heavy. The key to dressing correctly for hiking is layering so that you can add or reduce items without suddenly getting too hot or cold. Therefore having a number of light layers, including a fleece, is recommended.

Waterproof jacket

Depend on your destination and time of year, this is an absolute essential as it doubles up as protection from the rain as well as adding another layer if you need one.

Hiking socks

The right boots need the right socks. Good hiking socks will be breathable, keep your feet warm, and add cushioning in the right places.

Sunglasses

Wherever you are on your hiking holiday and whatever the temperature, ensure you take sunglasses. Walking into the sun without them is not enjoyable. At high altitudes you may be dealing with sun glistening off snowy peaks which can be blinding and uncomfortable. I always prefer wearing wrap around glasses to prevent the sun coming in the sides. 

Sun hat

A sun hat is important to protect your face from sunburn. In some destinations you may not feel the heat of the sun as the air temperature is cold but it could still be burning your skin. Make sure you are safe.

Gloves and hat

Early mornings in most mountain destinations will require gloves and hats. Whilst you’re unlikely to need them all day, your mornings will be dismal if you forget these essential items. I feel the cold and these are some of the first items I add to my rucksack!

First aid kit

Any activity runs the risk of injuries, for example tripping and cutting yourself. Make sure you have a well-stocked first aid kit with you when embarking on your hiking holiday. I always make sure that I have a variety of plasters, antiseptic cream, antiseptic wipes, bandages safety pins and painkillers. If your destination requires it also include insect repellent and cream to treat itchy bites. 

Sun protection

As with the sun hat, you might not feel the sun as you don’t feel hot but it could nevertheless be burning you. Make sure you have sunscreen (I always use factor 50) to avoid getting burnt.

NB: In case you forget to put on the sunscreen one day, I recommened also taking after sun to treat any unfortunate sunburn. 

Tissues/wipes

Whether it’s for the toilet or to clean your face/hands, you may not find running water or paper readily available so these are useful items to bring with you. Make sure you take all your used tissues with you and don’t spoil the natural landscape with rubbish.

Waterproof bags (reusable)

These are a very useful addition to your hiking holiday packing list as you can put dirty or wet clothes in them and keep these items away from the rest of your belongings. If your trek is combined with other activities such as rafting, you can use these bags to keep your electronics or important items dry and safe.

Hand sanitiser

A staple in most peoples travel kits since covid, this has always been a crucial item for a hiking holiday, especially when you are planning on walking somewhere remote, or where there are only bush toilets and nowhere to wash your hands.

Water bottle

Much better for the environment than disposable bottles, make sure that you take a water bottle with you that you can refill. It’s extremely important to keep hydrated when undertaking physical activity.

NB: as an alternative, I love and always use a backpack reservoir so that I can keep my hands free and drink from the tube whilst walking.

Snacks

Granted you can probably buy these in-country, however make sure that you take snacks with you to keep your energy up whilst you are taking in the incredible scenery, wherever it is your hiking holiday has taken you!