My 5 Favorite Hiking Supplies
Views from the top of Mt. Outram, Manning Park, BC
Over the Summer I was reflecting on my favorite hiking accessories that make me very happy when I’m in the middle of the forest/mountains. These do not necessarily include the basics like backpack, tent/shelter, sleeping bag etc. Some are little luxuries that I find are worth the added weight and realestate. Maybe fellow hikers will agree with me on some of these items, or maybe you will discover a new item you wish to add to your hiking arsenal!
(None of these are sponsored - I wish!)
Stojo Collapsible Cup
Collapsible dishes are amazing to take hiking. I love this guy due to it’s size, a firm ring around the cup for maintaining structure and it has liquid measures written inside. It also comes with a silicone collapsible straw!
SmartWool Socks
I find these merino wool socks are worth the investment! I struggle with cold feet at night and these are the warmest wool socks I’ve found. They are also very comfortable and breathable to wear when hiking. If you look at the photo upside down, do you see the camping-themed pattern?
Wine Bag/Flask
I have carted a glass bottle of wine in/out of a site. I have also tried the wine juice boxes… neither situation was great. I have had this bag for at least 10 years and it is still serving me well! There’s something about taking in a lake or mountain view, in the middle of nowhere, with a glass (cup) of wine in hand.
Platypus Water Filter
This one is VERY practical. It holds 1-Litre of “dirty” water and is incredibly easy to squeeze through the filter into your water bottle/bladder. You could even just pour it straight into your mouth. I personally find it quicker than a pump or gravity-fed system (I know plenty of people enjoy their gravity-fed versions).
Lightweight Hammock
The carabiners are the heaviest part of the kit, and worth it. Is there anything more luxurious than sipping your coffee or reading a book while swinging in your hammock in the middle of a quiet forest? If I know I’m hiking into a forested site, I make sure I save realestate in my bag for this item.
What are your favorite back-country hiking items? Leave a comment, as I’d love to hear your additions!