If you’ve ever typed “what to pack for a hike” into Google, you’ve probably stumbled across something called the 10 Hiking Essentials. They pop up everywhere – blogs, forums, hiking groups, and can make beginners feel like you need to haul a survival bunker up the mountain just for a Sunday stroll.
So, what are they really? Do you need them all? And how do you choose the right gear without emptying your bank account? Let’s break it down.
Quick List: The 10 Hiking Essentials
For the skim-readers (I see you), here’s the classic list:
- Clothing
- Food
- Water
- Head torch
- Communication & navigation
- First aid kit
- Shelter
- Warmth
- Sun protection
- Multi-tool
Now, let’s dig into why each one matters, and how to choose wisely.
1. Clothing: How to Layer for Hiking
Your first line of defence against the elements. The golden rule? Stay dry — from rain and sweat.
The layering system is your best friend:
- Base layer → wicks away sweat
- Mid layer → fleece or insulation for warmth
- Outer layer → waterproof/windproof shell
⚠️ Avoid cotton. It soaks up moisture and won’t dry quickly — cold, soggy misery guaranteed.
Footwear tips:
- Boggy, uneven mountain trails → waterproof ankle boots (dry, warm, ankle support)
- Woodland or maintained trails → trail runners/trainers usually fine
And yes, Irish weather can flip in five minutes — so pack that extra layer.
2. Food: What Snacks to Bring on a Hike
Hiking burns calories, so you’ll want snacks you can eat on the move:
- Protein bars
- Trail mix
- Dried fruit or sandwiches
- Mug shots or soup for cold days (trust me, nothing beats it at 600m in the wind).
💡 Always pack a bit extra. Hikes run long, weather delays happen, and waiting around without food is the worst.
3. Water: How Much to Carry
Rule of thumb: ½ litre per hour of moderate activity in moderate weather.
- Bring more than you think you’ll need.
- Water is heavy (1L = 1kg) → consider a water filter if you’re sure you’ll pass safe water sources.
- Don’t drink untreated stream water – even clear mountain water can carry bacteria or parasites like Giardia.
4. Head Torch: Don’t Rely on Daylight
Plenty of rescues happen because people thought they’d be “back before dark” (Mountain Rescue Ireland, 2023).
Bring a head torch even on day hikes:
- Waterproof models are best
- Replaceable batteries beat USB rechargeables for long trips
- Your phone torch? Nope – save that battery for emergencies.
5. Communication & Navigation: Beyond Google Maps
Phones are handy but unreliable in the hills (patchy coverage, battery drain).
- Fully charge before leaving
- Tell someone your route + finish time
- Use apps like Hiiker (with EastWest maps included) to share live location
- Always carry a paper map & compass (and learn to use them – Mountain Skills courses are excellent)
- GPS devices (like Garmin InReach) are brilliant in emergencies, though pricey
6. First Aid Kit: Hiking Edition
A small kit is fine – just add a few hiker-specific extras:
- Blister plasters
- Antihistamines
- Tick tweezers
- Bug spray & hand sanitiser
- Mirror (for eyes/face injuries)
💡Store it where you can grab it quickly, not buried under your sandwiches.
7. Shelter: Staying Dry and Warm
You don’t need a tent on every hike, but you do need emergency protection.
Think ON / IN / UNDER:
- ON: mat or sit pad to insulate from cold ground
- IN: extra clothes, survival blanket, bivvy bag
- UNDER: tarp or storm shelter to block wind/rain
⚠️ Hypothermia is one of the biggest risks in Irish hills – shelter buys you precious time.
8. Warmth: Skip the Campfire Fantasy
Online lists often say “fire.” Realistically, in Ireland, you won’t find dry wood in a boggy storm.
Better bets:
- Foil/survival blanket to reflect body heat
- Small stove or flask of tea/coffee – hot drinks are magic when you’re freezing
9. Sun Protection: Not Just for sunny days
Yes, even in Ireland. At higher altitudes, UV exposure increases, and windburn is common.
- SPF 30+ minimum
- Wide-brimmed hat for full coverage
- Buff to protect your neck – dunk it in streams on hot days for a DIY cooling system
10. Multi-tool: The Fix-Everything Essential
Tiny but mighty. Use it for:
- Cutting cord for tarps
- Repairing broken kit
- Opening stubborn snack wrappers
Add duct tape too — it fixes almost everything (except poor life choices).
⚠️ Quick reminder: check local knife laws before carrying.
Wrapping Up
That’s the 10 hiking essentials, explained in plain English. You don’t need to overpack or spend a fortune, but having the basics covered can keep you safe – and make your hike far more enjoyable.
If you’re starting out, upgrade your kit gradually, learn how to use it, and most importantly — enjoy the adventure.
🌲 what’s your “secret 11th essential”? Let me know – I’m always curious what makes it into people’s packs.
Happy hiking, agus slán go fóill!
Sources & Further Reading
- Mountain Rescue Ireland – Safety Tips
- Leave No Trace Ireland – Outdoor Skills & Safety
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