Day Hiking Checklist

The Bare Essentials

Phone - We know you'll probably take it without thinking but it may even save your life. Not only are they great cameras these days, but they can also serve as compasses, a GPS, beacon, torch and many other great things.
Water - Get your water bladder, drink bottle or maybe just a filter if you're going past a lot of streams. Stay hydrated out there!
Food - Hunger is definitely something we always underestimate. If you think you even might take the long way back or stop by another scenic spot, then take the extra sandwich or risk the munchies taking over when you get back. Not to mention it's good to have some high energy food for emergency situations. When hiking we often opt for bars, trail mix, nuts and fruits. Also PLEASE take any rubbish back with you if there aren't bins where you're heading.
First Aid Kit - If you never end up using it, that's a good thing! A small one is better than nothing, so put something together.
Sun Protection - Apply sunscreen before you go or take it with you if you'll be out a while. Especially when at high altitude exploring the mountains the sun gets nasty! No one likes to hide from the sun when you're already burnt, so don't make the initial mistake. Hats and sunglasses are almost always taken with us.
Bear Spray - It's for when you least expect it so don’t pretend like you’ll be fine without it. It's also good for protecting yourself from more than just bears out there. Adventure safe!
Air horn/Bear Banger - Be smart about where you're going. Especially if you're trail running or carrying any animal attractants (non sealed up food) you might want an extra defence. Bear spray is only useful at close range and we prefer no close encounters!
Layers - Ogre have layers and we should also have layers. Mountain terrain is unpredictable. Wind, rain, or even snow in the summer. It can happen. Bring at least something to shelter you from the harsh winds if you have ANY doubt.
Knowledge - Knowledge is key, knowledge is power! Do you know where you're going, how long it should take you, if there are any emergency shelters or any other useful information that you should know? Some landscapes are unpredictable and injuries can also happen. Have a plan or at least be knowledgable about what you're doing/where you're going. It's also always a good idea to inform someone of where you are because time is crucial for search and rescue - if it ever comes down to that.

Mountain glacier, and glacial lake views at Garibaldi National Park, BC

The Glitz and the Glamour

Insect repellent - Rarely have we taken it with us. Usually we apply bug spray at the beginning of a hike and we cope just fine, but if you're planning on making extended stops you may want some form of repellent.
Extra Socks - Ever been on a 23km hike and sunk knee deep in mud during the first 2km? Ask Liz if she's glad she had extra socks. Sometimes the extras are worth it.
Power bank and charging cords - We often carry a small 6000mAh charger with us on day hikes. Phones nowadays have many safety features so it's good to have extra battery. Note - keep battery banks out of direct sunlight and if it's cold keep it in a warmer part of your pack e.g. close to your back where your heat will keep it warm. The cold could run your battery bank flat before you even use it!
Camera (and tripod) - As amazing as phone cameras have become, nothing will ever beat a good camera. Just make sure you can keep that fragile piece of equipment safe!
Toilet Paper - You never really know when you'll need it. If you're out for a while there's a chance it'll come in handy.
Hand Sanitiser - Hopefully this is obvious enough after the toilet paper.
Cooker, Fuel and Lighter/Matches - If snacks aren't doing it for you or you have a big crew out for the day, take a nice pit stop and cook up a storm! Don't forget any utensils if necessary too.
Towel - Lightweight and quick dry hiking towels are definitely the way to go here if you're thinking of making a refreshing pitstop. We purchased some $3 ones from K-mart in Tasmania, so you don't need to break the bank.
Hiking poles - not really our thing because it ends up being another thing to carry while scrambling up summits. If however, you enjoy having them (and have the money to buy them) then go for it!
Backcountry Navigation Equipment - if you're heading into areas where trails aren't maintained or well defined it's essential to be well equipped. Compass, GPS, watch, whistle and an altimeter might be pieces of equipment you may need. Not to mention any emergency overnight equipment e.g. shelter and blanket.

Day Hiking Checklist

The Bare Essentials​

Phone - We know you'll probably take it without thinking but it may even save your life. Not only are they great cameras these days, but they can also serve as compasses, a GPS, beacon, torch and many other great things.

Water - Get your water bladder, drink bottle or maybe just a filter if you're going past a lot of streams. Stay hydrated out there!

First Aid Kit - If you never end up using it, that's a good thing! A small one is better than nothing, so put something together.

Bear Spray - It's for when you least expect it so don’t pretend like you’ll be fine without it. It's also good for protecting yourself from more than just bears out there. Adventure safe!

Air horn/Bear Banger - Be smart about where you're going. Especially if you're trail running or carrying any animal attractants (non sealed up food) you might want an extra defence. Bear spray is only useful at close range and we prefer no close encounters!

Layers - Ogre have layers and we should also have layers. Mountain terrain is unpredictable. Wind, rain, or even snow in the summer. It can happen. Bring at least something to shelter you from the harsh winds if you have ANY doubt.

The Glitz and the Glamour​​

Insect repellent - Rarely have we taken it with us. Usually we apply bug spray at the beginning of a hike and we cope just fine, but if you're planning on making extended stops you may want some form of repellent.

Extra Socks - Ever been on a 23km hike and sunk knee deep in mud during the first 2km? Ask Liz if she's glad she had extra socks. Sometimes the extras are worth it.

Camera (and tripod) - As amazing as phone cameras have become, nothing will ever beat a good camera. Just make sure you can keep that fragile piece of equipment safe!

Toilet Paper - You never really know when you'll need it. If you're out for a while there's a chance it'll come in handy.

Hand Sanitiser - Hopefully this is obvious enough after the toilet paper.

Cooker, Fuel and Lighter/Matches - If snacks aren't doing it for you or you have a big crew out for the day, take a nice pit stop and cook up a storm! Don't forget any utensils if necessary too.

Towel - Lightweight and quick dry hiking towels are definitely the way to go here if you're thinking of making a refreshing pitstop. We purchased some $3 ones from K-mart in Tasmania, so you don't need to break the bank.

Hiking poles - not really our thing because it ends up being another thing to carry while scrambling up summits. If however, you enjoy having them (and have the money to buy them) then go for it!

The Bare Essentials

The Glitz and the Glamour