What you carry depends where, when and how far you plan to go, where, and when. The most important things you should have for a one-day hike are:

• • Map and compass
• • Water flask
• • Sturdy footwear and extra socks
• • Rain coat
• • Watch
• • Trash bag
• • Guidebook
• • Insect repellant
• • Sunglasses
• • Sunscreen
• • Gloves
• • Personal medications
• • First aid kit
• • Walking poles (optional)
• • Mobile phone

For longer hikes, or hikes in remote, rugged areas, you may want to add the following:

• • Flashlight (with extra batteries)
• • Heavy-duty garbage bag
• • Sharp knife
• • Fire starter

When it comes to hiking, dressing for comfort and safety is a key factor. Since walking will make you sweat regardless of the weather, wearing loose pants and shirts, and thin layers will help you move with more ease and regulate your body temperature. In general, thin layers of quick drying synthetic clothes are better than cotton or wool. You will need also polar fleece jacket, in addition to a waterproof and windproof coat. It is also useful to wear specialist trekking pants made of lightweight, quick-drying and tear-resistant fabric. As for your shoes, you will need a pair of sturdy hiking shoes with firm ankle support and good soles to avoid slippery. It is also important that you wear thick socks that will protect your feet and absorb sweat.