Before You Leave

What should I wear hiking?

A typical hiking outfit includes a moisture-wicking base layer, hiking pants or shorts, hiking socks and suitable footwear. Add a mid layer for warmth and a waterproof shell when conditions require it.

What should I pack for a day hike?

Bring water, food and snacks, weather protection, navigation tools, a first aid kit, a charged phone and appropriate clothing. A 20–30L backpack is suitable for most full-day hikes.

What should I pack for an overnight or multi-day hike?

In addition to your hiking clothing and essentials, you’ll need a larger backpack, shelter, sleeping system, cooking equipment, food, spare clothing, hygiene supplies and repair gear.

How many layers do I need for hiking?

The 3-layer system provides a flexible starting point: a base layer for moisture management, a mid layer for warmth and an outer layer for weather protection. You don’t necessarily need to wear all three at once.

What should I wear hiking in summer?

Choose lightweight, breathable clothing that manages moisture. A base layer, hiking pants or shorts and comfortable footwear are a good starting point. Bring sun protection, water and a lightweight extra layer for cooler mornings or evenings.

What should I wear hiking in cold weather?

Start with a moisture-managing base layer, add insulation for warmth and use a protective outer layer against wind and rain. For winter conditions, add appropriate gloves, a warm hat and other seasonal protection.

Should I bring extra clothes hiking?

For a day hike, a spare layer can be useful if weather or temperatures change. For multi-day trips, bring spare socks, underwear and base layers, plus appropriate camp and weather clothing.

Do I need a waterproof jacket?

A waterproof shell is recommended when rain or strong wind is possible. Even when the forecast looks good, changing mountain weather can make a lightweight shell worth carrying.

What size backpack do I need for hiking?

As a general guide, 15–20L works for shorter hikes, 20–30L for full-day hikes, 40–50L for overnight trips and 50–70Lfor longer multi-day adventures. The amount of equipment and season will affect the size you need.

Should I use a rain cover on my backpack?

A rain cover can provide additional protection during prolonged rain. For longer trips, combining a rain cover with dry bags or a pack liner gives your clothing and equipment another layer of protection.

How much water should I bring hiking?

For a typical day hike, 1–2 litres is a useful starting point, but your needs depend on temperature, distance, activity level and whether reliable water sources are available.

What should I always carry on a hike?

At minimum, consider water, food, appropriate clothing, navigation, basic first aid, weather protection, a charged phone and a light source. Your requirements will increase with distance, remoteness and changing conditions.

Can I wear jeans hiking?

Jeans are generally not ideal for hiking because cotton absorbs moisture and dries slowly. Hiking pants made from lightweight, quick-drying and flexible materials are better suited to changing conditions and active movement.

Do I need hiking boots?

Not always. Trail shoes can work well on maintained trails and lighter hikes, while hiking boots can provide additional protection and support on rough terrain, steep trails or when carrying heavier loads.

What should I pack for changing weather?

Carry a waterproof shell and an extra insulating layer, even when conditions look favourable. Lightweight accessories such as a beanie and liner gloves take up little space and can be useful when temperatures drop.

How should I pack my backpack?

Keep heavier items close to your back, balance the load and place frequently used items where they are easy to reach. Keep clothing and sensitive equipment protected in dry bags or a pack liner.