45+ Hiking Essentials: The Ultimate Hiking Packing List for Beginners

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Last Updated on March 6, 2024 by Lauren Melnick

Does packing for an overnight hike make you want to set your hair on fire and send you into a state of panic? Then this is the article for you!

I’m sharing everything you should include in your hiking packing list to make sure you have the most stress-free experience while in the mountains.

However, you don’t need to bring allllll these items for every single hiking trip. You’ll need to tweak it according to your needs. For example, multi-day hikes like the Otter Trail have huts so you don’t need to pack a tent and an insulated mattress.

As someone who has had quite a view hiking fails from not packing the right gear, I’ve learned a thing or two about you need (especially the things that’ll help you get a good night’s sleep).

Trust me, by the time you get to the end of this article, you’ll be an absolute hiking packing master

So, let’s get started – here are all the hiking essentials to pack for a multi-day trek!

Psst…Want more hiking tips and inspiration for your next adventure? Check out these other posts:

15+ Best Hikes in South Africa With Mind-Blowing Views12 Best Hiking Trails in Cape Town With Jaw-Dropping ViewsThe Best Drakensberg Hikes That’ll Take Your Breath AwayHiking The Otter Trail in South Africa: Absolutely Everything You Need to KnowHiking Tugela Falls: Africa’s Highest Waterfall10+ Spectacular Multi-Day Hiking Trails In The Western Cape

Table of Contents

Multi-Day Hiking Packing ListHiking Gear for BeginnersBackpackRain CoverHead LampTrekking PolesDry BagHiking ShoesWater BladderFirst Aid KitMosquito and Bug RepellentSPF Lip BalmSunscreenToiletriesWhat to Wear HikingSweat Wicking ShirtInsulated JacketWindbreakerMid-LayerRain JacketHiking ShortsHiking PantsThermalsHatWool Hiking SocksSandalsGlovesSunglassesNeck BuffCamping EquipmentTentSleeping BagSleeping Bag LinersInsulated MattressPillowToilet Paper and Plastic BagsBaby WipesKnife and Duct TapeKitchen EquipmentJet Boil and FuelLighterFoodSporkMugWater BottleDishwashing Liquid + ClothElectronics EquipmentPortable ChargerCamera/PhoneTripodMulti-Day Hiking Packing ListHiking Gear for Beginners

Before you go into the mountains, you need the right hiking gear. Here’s what to add to your overnight hiking checklist:

Backpack

The most important item for any overnight hike is a hiking backpack.

You want to make sure you’re investing in a bag that is made specifically for multi-day hikes. It’s going to give you all the support you need and keep your weight off your back.

I use the Osprey Aura 65l. It’s one of the best hiking backpacks for women as it’s designed for our bodies for a more comfortable fit.

SHOP NOW Rain Cover

While the weather forecast may say clear skies, sometimes you can’t predict the weather.

A rain cover for your backpack is one of those must-haves for hiking to keep all your gear dry (like your camera and sleeping bag).

If your pack doesn’t come with one, you can buy a rain cover separately. I bought this one from Outdoor Warehouse before I upgraded my pack to an Osprey.

SHOP NOW Head Lamp

A headlamp needs a spot on any hiking equipment list. It’s also one of my essential items for photography as I often wake up before sunrise to shoot or venture into the wilderness to shoot the Milky Way at 1 am.

When you’re packing for a multi-day hike, a headlamp is going to make it easier to see what’s lurking around your campsite at night.

Plus, you might need to start hiking before sunrise if you’re doing the Otter Trail and need to cross the Bloukrans River at low-tide.

SHOP NOW Trekking Poles

Do you need trekking poles for every single overnight hiking trip? Yes and no.

If your multi-day hike is strenuous (like the Mnweni Circuit in the Drakensberg), trekking poles will go a long way in helping you get up the mountain while it’s not required for an easier hike like Tugela Falls.

However, if you have bad knees, you should invest in poles even if you’re doing easy day hiking trails.

SHOP NOW Dry Bag

Why do you need a dry bag if your backpack has a rain cover? Extra precautions.

If you’re someone like me who brings expensive camera gear on adventures, you’ll want to add a dry bag to your hiking trip packing list. 

SHOP NOW Hiking Shoes

Choosing the right hiking shoes for your trip is incredibly important. You want to consider the type of conditions you’re trekking through as well as the style of hiking.

My go-to hiking shoes are the Altitude V Ultra from Hi-Tec. While these hiking boots are quite heavy, they are waterproof (I love jumping in puddles!), have an excellent grip (a must if your route involves scrambling), and super comfortable. For something lighter, I love the K-Way Women’s Scree Shoe.

SHOP NOW Water Bladder

Water bladders are one of the first things to pack for hiking trips.

It makes it easier to stay hydrated, and you don’t need to keep taking off your pack to pull out your water bottle. I use the 2l water bladder from First Ascent, and it also comes in a 3l if you want more carrying capacity.

Always remember to check the trail has water points and pack purification tablets.

SHOP NOW First Aid Kit

When you’re out in the mountains, you never know what might happen.

You could need a headache tablet, or you might trip and cut yourself on the trail. Add a small first aid kit to your hiking packing list.

Outdoor Warehouse has kits specifically designed with hikers in mind, and it tells you how many people can use it.

SHOP NOW Mosquito and Bug Repellent

If you’re hiking in the summer months, you’ll want protection from the swarms of mosquitos.

If you’re wearing sweet-smelling deodorant, you might attract a few more unwanted friends.

Pack a small bottle of bug and mosquito repellent to get a good nights sleep and avoid bites while on the trail.

SHOP NOW SPF Lip Balm

I’ll admit, I’m not the best at remembering to pack my SPF lip balm, but it’s a hiking essential. My lips always start to crack and sometimes bleed on a backpacking trip.

When I don’t use my lip balm, I’m in pain for the next couple of days after the hike while the cracks recover. 

SHOP NOW Sunscreen

Don’t leave home without packing sunscreen! It’s one of the top 10 essentials for hikes and will protect you from painful sunburns.

I use the Cetaphil SPF 50+ for oily skin from Dischem. I’d highly recommend it if you’re someone who finds the ‘greasiness” of sunscreen makes you breakout.

P.S. You should wear sunscreen every day to prevent signs of ageing and skin damage.

SHOP NOW Toiletries

Toiletries include things like your toothbrush, toothpaste, face wash, make-up etc.

It’s anything that will make you feel clean and comfortable. When packing for a hike, try to use small bottles to lessen the weight in your pack.

What to Wear Hiking

 Not packing the right clothes for hiking will leave you freezing or sweating your butt off in the mountains. Here’s what to add to your hiking wardrobe:

Sweat Wicking Shirt

When you start building a hiking wardrobe, invest in a moisture-wicking and quick-drying shirt.

On multi-day hikes, you’re going to sweat A LOT, and you want to wear something that can keep you comfortable.

K-Way has sweat-wicking shirts made from Quik Wic fabric to keep you cool and dry outdoors.

SHOP NOW Insulated Jacket

 As someone who is a reptile and gets cold as soon as the sun dips under the horizon, I am obsessed with my insulated jackets.

I use the K-Way Women’s Swan ’18 Down Jacket. It’s incredibly light-weight and packs down small.

K-Way also has the Women’s Ember Re: Down Jacket, made from 100% recycled down.

SHOP NOW Windbreaker

I bought my first windbreaker for my overnight Tugela Falls hike, and it changed my life.

The K-Way Franklin Rain Jacket is light-weight, windproof and waterproof. I used it as an extra layer in the late afternoons and early mornings when the temperatures were cooler and loved it.

When the wind did pick up, it insulated me and kept me comfortable the entire time. I love that you can adjust the sleeves with a velcro strip to stop the wind from sneaking in up your arms!

SHOP NOW Mid-Layer

Another investment I made towards my hiking wardrobe is an insulated mid-layer.

I often reach for my long sleeve mid-layer when I am layering under a heavier jacket or when I want a bit of extra warmth.

My favourite is the K-Way Women’s Hazel Crewneck Fleece. It uses an insulating waffle knit, making it perfect for chilly outdoor conditions. 

SHOP NOW Rain Jacket

If you have a waterproof windbreaker, you can get away without buying a separate rain jacket.

However, if you’re hiking or trail running in heavy rain, you might want to invest in something like the First Ascent Ladies AR-X Waterproof Running Jacket or the First Ascent Ladies Submerge Rain Jacket.

Both are light-weight, packable, and designed to keep you dry in heavy downpours.

SHOP NOW Hiking Shorts

For multi-day hikes in the Drakensberg or anywhere else in South Africa, a pair of hiking shorts will go a long way in keeping you cool in the summer months.

I’ve been using a pair from Boody (it’s made from sustainable bamboo), but I have noticed it’s not the most durable material.

I’m looking at upgrading to First Ascent’s Ladies Corefit Short Tights which has a pocket for your phone!

SHOP NOW Hiking Pants

For colder temperatures of if you want to limit sun exposure on your legs, add a pair of long pants to your hiking packing list. 

Hiking leggings are a great choice, but if you’re going through more bushy areas, opt for more durable hiking pants.

SHOP NOW Thermals

I did Mnweni without a pair of thermals, and I will never make that mistake again. 

Thermals are excellent base layers when you want extra warmth and double as pyjamas in the evening. 

SHOP NOW Hat

Have you ever had sunburn on your head or ears? It’s the WORST! Protect yourself with a sun hat on your overnight hiking trip.

I often wear a cap from Stoked (one of my favourite South African brands) but opt for a wider brim hat like Olive Venture Wide Brim Hat if you want extra protection.

SHOP NOW Wool Hiking Socks

A thick pair of hiking socks will go a long way in preventing blisters.

For your hiking packing list, look for hiking socks that are breathable, moisture-wicking and odour resistant.

I like to double up my socks as an extra precaution for blisters, and it works like a dream!

SHOP NOW Sandals

After a long day of hiking, a pair of sandals will feel like the ultimate luxury for your toes.

I bring a pair of flip flops, but if you want to wear socks with your sandals in the evenings, opt for a pair like the K-Way K-Way Women’s Lily Sandal.

SHOP NOW Gloves

Gloves are essential for your trekking gear list if you’re going to colder climates or the temperature will drop quite a lot in the evenings.

Gloves will keep your hands toasty in the evenings and make it easier to cook or take photos in the cold.

SHOP NOW Sunglasses

Another must-have for sun protection is a pair of polarised sunglasses.

I love the Gold Vintage Octo Lens With Metal Frame from Escape Society. These sunglasses are super affordable and stylish.

SHOP NOW Neck Buff

Buffs are a handy piece of gear to own.

You can use them as a mask when shopping or use them to protect your neck and face from the sun, wind, and cold.

SHOP NOW Camping Equipment

For overnight hikes, your camping equipment can make or break your trip. Here are some backpacking essentials to make your night in the wilderness more comfortable:

Tent

For multi-day hikes, you want to pack a light-weight tent that can handle outdoor elements like wind and rain.

My go-to tent is the Helio 2 Person 4 Season Hiking Tent. It’s small enough to fit into the bottom of your pack and weighs only 2.45 kg.

SHOP NOW Sleeping Bag

The right sleeping bag is crucial to getting a good night’s rest on your overnight backpacking trip.

When I first started multi-day hiking, I used the same cheap sleeping bag I bought for OppiKoppi. BIG MISTAKE. I froze my butt off and didn’t sleep a wink.

For my next trip, I added the First Ascent Ice Breaker Down Sleeping Bag to my hiking packing list. It has a comfort rating of -3°C and an extreme rating of -18°C. The bag weighs 1.62kg and is made from responsibly sourced down filling.

SHOP NOW Sleeping Bag Liners

Sleeping bag liners aren’t necessary, but they go a long way if you’re someone like me who struggles with staying warm. 

SHOP NOW Insulated Mattress

Without a doubt, one of the most underrated items on an overnight hiking checklist is an insulated mattress.

After sleeping on a yoga mat inside a Drakensberg cave, I had the worst sleep in my life. I kept on getting cold, my entire side would go numb, and I could never get comfortable.

When I got back home, I invested in First Ascent Ultralight Insulated Mattress. It’s light-weight, takes up hardly any room, and insulates your body heat, so you don’t freeze to death at night.

SHOP NOW Pillow

For some reason, I never bought a hiking pillow until my overnight hike to Tugela Falls. In the past, I used a neck pillow or my backpack.

After taking the plunge and buying a self-inflating pillow, I’m never going back. The First Ascent Deluxe Pillow is light-weight, compact, and comfy.

SHOP NOW Toilet Paper and Plastic Bags

When hiking and camping in the wilderness, one-ply toilet paper is the way to go. It’s the best for the environment as it breaks down quicker than two-ply.

You should always pack a plastic bag to practice leave-no-trace principles and keep the trail waste-free.

Baby Wipes

After one or three nights camping in the wilderness with no showers, you’re going to feel gross.

Packing baby wipes can help you feel a bit cleaner, especially if there aren’t any rivers to swim in. Just don’t bring scented baby wipes, or you might attract hordes of bugs.

Knife and Duct Tape

You never know when you might need a knife. From cutting rope, opening bags/cans, or cutting something up for dinner.

Duct tape is one of the most useful items you can pack. Your tent pole could snap, and you need a quick fix, or your sleeping pad gets a hole.

Kitchen Equipment

The best part of any backpacking trip? Taking your pack off, putting on your flip flops, and making a delicious cup of hot chocolate with mini marshmallows! Here are the kitchen essentials you need to survive a night or two in the wilderness:

Jet Boil and Fuel

A Jet Boil is an investment, but it will change your life. It’s a nifty device that boils water in less than five minutes!

Plus, most Jet Boil’s come with a 2-in-1 pot and bowl, helping you save space in your pack. Just don’t forget the fuel!

SHOP NOW Lighter

Always pack a lighter. Even if you think you won’t need it, chances are something will happen, and you will.

Plus, it’s always a good time to have a spliff on a mountain at sunset.

Food

I tend to DIY some trail mix on multi-day hiking trips, throw in a few energy bars, and dried food.

At Outdoor Warehouse, you can buy dehydrated food packs, which are super light-weight but a bit pricey. Don’t forget to bring along some instant coffee or a coffee press if you don’t mind the extra weight.

SHOP NOW Spork

A spork is an excellent backpacking utensil. It doubles as a spoon and a fork, meaning that’s one less thing for you to pack. 

SHOP NOW Mug

Pack a mug for your coffee or tea. You can clip your mug to the outside of your bag if you’re running out of space.

SHOP NOW Water Bottle

Bring along a small water bottle to use at the campsite at night.

It’s super useful for when you’re cooking with your Jet Boil or when you need to clean your pots and utensils.

SHOP NOW Dishwashing Liquid + Cloth

I usually decant a small amount of dishwashing liquid into a travel-sized bottle and pack a small cloth.

It makes the clean-up process in the evening and morning that much easier!

Electronics Equipment

You don’t need a lot of electronic equipment for a hike, but here are a few essentials you may want to pack:

Portable Charger

Tip #1 for making your battery last longer, put it on Airplane Mode.

Tip #2, always add a fully charged portable charger to your hiking packing list.

SHOP NOW Camera/Phone

For the casual photographer, your smartphone camera is perfect for multi-day hikes.

However, if you’re someone who wants to shoot landscape or get fancy with astrophotography, you’ll need to pack a camera.

I currently shoot with a Canon 80D and the 18-35mm 1.8 fs Sigma Art lens, but mirrorless cameras from Canon, Sony, and Fuji are a better light-weight option.

SHOP NOW Tripod

You only need to pack a tripod if there are specific shots you need, and stability is a must!

I use the Manfrotto Traveller range.

SHOP NOW 

What are your essentials for a hiking packing list? Hit ya gurl up in the comments!