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Oct 10

Oct 10 What's in my daypack?

So these are the articles, videos and photos I have OBSESSED over since I've started doing all this hiking business, so I'm DEAD EXCITED to do my very own personal "What's in my backpack" thingey. I'd like to thank my parents, my fans etc etc.

When you're setting out for a day hike it's important to bring everything you need to be comfortable and safe in the great outdoors. Since you're spending a whole day outside you're pretty likely to get stuck in a rain shower, get tired, or might start getting a blister (why God why!), and by packing these essential items you can deal with whatever is going on and go and have some more fun! Easy peasy! If you're in total unknown territory where you probably won't see other humans for hours at a time (i.e. national parks, the Moon), have a look at this excellent checklist from REI as well.

A note on the bag itself. I use an Osprey Talon 18L which is a so-called technical backpack, which means it's waterproof, super comfortable to wear, and is adaptable for more serious hikes so it fits a hydration bladder and hiking poles. This thing is an absolute GEM and I would recommend it to Jesus Christ himself. However, when you first start out hiking any backpack that feels comfortable and is big enough to fit in what you need for the day and a layer of what you're wearing (in case you get too hot) is great! So without further ado *drumroll*, here's what's in my bag when I set out for a day hike!

1. Directions OR a map and compass

You won't get far without knowing where you're going! Duh. I usually go on walks from the Saturday Walker's club and print off their walking instructions PDF. To find out how to plan a hike have a look at my blog post here.

2. Phone with GPS app, plus external charger and cable

I don't know about you but my phone's battery is pretty useless so a charged external battery pack is essential when romping out into the wilderness. I use my phone as backup navigation with the GPS tracker app maps.me, to which I download the route I'm taking. Since I use a camera to take pictures I try not to use my phone too much while I'm out walking. Digital detox innit.

3. First aid kit: blister plasters, tissues, hand sanitizer, ibuprofen

Aha! The sexy stuff! I've got a little makeup bag I keep these bad boys in and rarely leave the house without it these days. Also contains a pen and lipstick. Always be prepared.

4. Rain protection: waterproof trousers, extra socks

I got some fantastic waterproof over-trousers (that's what they're called right) from Peter Storm on sale for a tenner and they come with me on every hike just in case there's a downpour. A second pair of socks come in handy for the train home if you did get wet feet, or as a mid-walk treat. Mmmmh. Clean socks.

4. A beanie/sun hat/baseball cap

FASHION MOMENT! The place to truly let your creativity soar is headgear. As long as your hat is warming when it's cold out or will keep the sun off your head and out of your eyes when it's hot and sunny, you've got pretty free reign here. I'll be living in my chunky new North Face beanie until Spring and wore a Levi's baseball cap all summer.

5. Sunglasses

Ideally lightweight so they don't fall off your face and fairly sturdy. Mine are neither of these things but they *are* polarized and look cool so HA.

6. Lip balm!!!

Lots of wind can be pretty dehydrating, and not having lip balm when you want lip balm is possibly THE worst feeling in the world. I've twice forgotten lip balm before hikes and raced to WH Smiths at the train station to buy one, nearly missing my train both times. Worth it? Omg yes. The best lip balm on planet Earth IMO is bebe zartrose which I import from Germany in alarming quantities.

7. Snacks

A vital part of why I enjoy hiking is eating vast quantities during and after the hike. I like Trek bars or make my own granola bars or energy balls, or basically anything that has a slow energy release is good to keep you going all day. Plus a little choccy a happy hiker makes.

8. Water bottle

ALWAYS bring water! I have a Kleen Kanteen stainless steel water bottle that I've shlepped across the globe, covered in National Park stickers and love to bits. Its only downfall is it's impossible to drink from in a car: you either knock your teeth out or get water all over yourself. Or both. Pro tip: when you reach a water source (drinking fountain or tap, pub) drink up whatever is in your bottle and get a refill. You need to drink a TON of water when you're out all day and running out of water with hours of walking ahead of you is not fun.

9. Torch

Possibly the dorkiest part of my kit, but after having gotten stuck in a field Epping Forest in the dark one time LET ME TELL YOU it's great to have. Plus useful for poking fellow hikers.

10. A book

Not very ultralight of me, but I don't go far in life without a book. I can warmly recommend Mindful Thoughts for Walkers by Adam Ford for its ample wisdom and approachable writing on walking in zen. Chill be with you, amigos.

11. Camera

I use a Canon Power Shot G16. I know nothing about cameras. It's fantastic.

And that's it! I hope this is remotely helpful, and if you've got any epic hiking gear you pack for a day hike please hit me up in the comments. Happy hiking!