Affiliate Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links to gear I use and trust on the trail. If you click on these links and make purchase, I might receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
This is the gear I rely on for hiking and backpacking, from easy day hikes and coastal walks to muddy ridges and long mountain climbs. Everything here is trail tested and earns a spot in my pack.
I hike year round across Hawaii, U.S. national parks and forests, as well as international trails, so the gear here gets real use in a wide range of conditions. Some items have been with me for years, others are newer finds that earned their place after repeated trips. If something stops working or gets replaced, I update this page and only keep what I would pack again.
This page is organized by category so you can quickly find what you need for footwear, hydration, sun protection, safety, and pack essentials. Whether you are planning a short day hike or a multi-day backpacking trip, this is the gear I trust to get me through the day comfortably and safely.
Footwear and traction
Trail Buddy Hiking Poles
My go-to poles for stability on steep climbs and long descents. Especially helpful when the trail is slippery.
Salewa Trail Runners
Lightweight trail runners with solid grip. I like these for steep trails when I want traction without heavy boots.
Microspikes for Hiking
Slip-on traction cleats for extra grip on slick trails. I pack them for muddy days and slippery, icy sections.
Hydration and fuel
Owala Water Bottle
Insulated bottle that keeps drinks cold for hours, fits easily in a daypack, and comes in a variety of fun colors.
SaltStick FastChews
Electrolyte tablets I swear by that help prevent cramps and give me an energy push on long and hard hikes or backpacking adventures.
Honey Stinger Energy Gel
Easy-to-digest fuel for steady energy during long, gruesome climbs. My go-to for backpacking and ridge hikes.
Sun and weather protection
Goodr Polarized Sunglasses
Budget-friendly polarized sunglasses that stay put while hiking and look good too.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Ocean-friendly, mineral sunscreen that protects your skin for coastal hikes and swim.
DEET-Free Bug Spray
Plant-based insect repellent that helps keep mosquitoes away on forested or humid trails.
Navigation and Safety
Garmin Fenix GPS Watch
I’ve relied on this watch since 2021 and we have a love-hate relationship. It tracks everything and insists I need three days to recover from short hikes.
Rechargeable Headlamp
I always pack my rechargeable BioLite headlamp, just in case. Lightweight, bright, and perfect for early starts, late finishes, or cloudy ridge descents.
Ultralight First Aid Kit
A compact medical kit I keep in my pack on every hike for blisters, scrapes, or minor trail emergencies. Bonus points for being lightweight and waterproof.
What goes in my pack
Budget-Friendly Daypack
This is not the exact pack I currently use, but it is a solid affordable option I would consider for day hikes, especially if you want something simple and waterproof without spending a lot of money.
Sea to Summit Dry Bag
This always lives in my pack on wet hikes. I use it to protect electronics, layers, and snacks when rain rolls in or creek crossings get splashy. Lightweight, packs down small, and worth carrying.
Microfiber Travel Towel
I keep this in my pack for hikes and backpacking trips when I want something lightweight that dries fast and takes up almost no space. Great for swims, sweaty breaks, or quick cleanups.