When planning a hike, it’s very easy to think about the great views you’ll see, or how good you’ll feel after the challenging route, or perhaps even the burger you’ll be craving after you get down. But less frequently do we stop to think about potential twisted ankles, needing to help other hikers or any other unfortunate circumstance. The list of hiking essentials are an effective way to help you be prepared for the unplanned, have what you need to deal with most simple problems you may encounter, and most importantly to stay safe and alive. Conditions out in nature can change fast, particularly in British Columbia. Make sure you have what you need to look after yourself.
Thankfully, I’ve never had or come across any major incidents when hiking, but as I imagine we all learn over time, I’ve had a couple of moments that made me stop and think about what I should have done differently. With that experience, I have written this guide with everything you need to consider to stay warm, dry, safe, hydrated and fed – all of which will help you enjoy your hikes and love what British Columbia has to offer.
Table of Contents
Hiking Gear - The 13 Essentials
Adequate Footwear
Supportive hiking shoes are the most essential piece of equipment you can bring. Many people get caught out on the trails of Vancouver and BC, with inadequate shoes, resulting in twisted ankles and injuries. Many of Vancouver’s trails are uneven or involve hiking over stones, rocks and roots. Wear the correct footwear and ensure that you have a great day by staying injury free.
Headtorch & Spare Batteries
Ideally, it’s best to carry a separate source of light to your phone, which for me is a powerful, red/white and waterproof headtorch, ideally lightweight. I’ll talk through each of those points below. Most likely, you’ll have your phone out during the day to take photos and navigate, which means you can’t rely on its battery to light your way should you be on the hiking trails longer than expected.
Headtorch or Torch? First things first, a head torch is far more practical than a torch. It can sit on your head whilst you use your hiking poles, or grab branches or push your way through anything else in your path. You can even use your hands to take off your pack, whilst your head lights what you’re doing. A hand held torch is simply no match for the practicality of a head torch.
What does powerful mean? Headtorches are sold with different brightness specs, with general brightness measured in lumens. I would recommend you look for a head torch with a minimum of 250 lumens to ensure it’s bright enough to light your path.
Why waterproof? Well, I used to carry just a basic head torch – until one day when change in the weather forced a last-minute change of camping plans after sunset. We hiked down a number of kilometers to move to a campsite nearer the trailhead, and during that walk it began to rain. Although my light didn’t fail it made me think, yes, any headtorch will give you light.
Red/White Lights? Some head torches have an option to emit red light as well as the default white. There’s a good reason for this, as red light doesn’t kill your night vision. Ever walk into a dark room from a bright environment? When you first walk in, you can’t see anything because your eyes take a while to adjust, which is the same effect that a bright, white light will have. A red light allows you to see in the dark, without compromising your night vision. In certain scenarios, especially camping, this is an exceptionally useful feature.
What does lightweight mean? For me lightweight means small enough that its never a burden to carry. If you’re head torch weighs so much that you start being tempted not to take it – its too big. The standard Black Diamond type head torches are approximately 5cm x 3cm x 3cm, excluding the head strap and will do the job perfectly for most conditions.
Spare Batteries. A key consideration with headtorches is how you power them. Some are powered by an internal battery, some a separate battery pack that sits on the back of your head, and either might be lithium-ion, triple AAA or even double AA batteries. Some head torches need to be plugged in, some have rechargeable batteries and some can be charged via USB. So which do you choose? For me, versatility is the key – I want to know that my light will work in every scenario I find myself in. So that means a headlight that has rechargeable AAA batteries that can be replaced if necessary, that can also be recharged via USB. I carry a spare set of batteries in a little kit bag, just in case I need to swap them out.
Navigation Device & Power Source
The most fool-proof and resilient method to navigating in all possible conditions is to have yourself a waterproof, paper map as well as a compass and the necessary skills to use them. Realistically, I am conscious that most people will not choose this approach, and will instead focus on navigating with an electronic device, phone or otherwise. With that in mind, I will focus my attention on those options. Whilst I used to be a map and compass guy back in the UK, on most hikes these days, I too rely on electronics. There are three elements you need to consider: Availability, redundancy, and power source. I’ll talk through each below.
Power Source. Here we’re talking battery power, which is especially important when you are using your phone for multiple different tasks. Is your device reliable enough to last all day, considering all the photos you’ll likely take? What if you end up on your hiking trail for longer than expected? Will you have the battery power to use your mapping app, take photos, and then call search and rescue (911)? I generally hike with my phone in airplane mode to conserve battery, ensure my phone is fully charged, and on multi-day trips I generally take a solar-optional external battery.
Redundancy. If you’re hiking in a group of two, the general assumption is that you have two devices to navigate. As I’m often the planner in the group, I often find that not everyone in the group has the map on their phone – which they really should. Has your friend also looked at and downloaded the map? Did they remember to charge their phone. If not, you’re already relying on a single device before you even start your hike. Get into a habit of charging your phone, and reminding everyone in your group to have an offline map.
Availability. Availability refers to whether your chosen mapping system is always available. For a paper map, that would potentially mean a water proof cover. But for most of us that rely on electronic devices, aside from the question of power mentioned above, availability refers to if you can access your map when in the back country. Canadian cell coverage is very poor compared to outdoor areas in smaller countries – understandable when you consider its size! What ever your chosen mapping app, you should make sure you have a way to access it offline, once you lose signal. If using Google Maps on an easy trail, its easy to download an offline copy. If you’re hiking out in nature, I recommend and use AllTrails+ and Gaia Maps.
Reliable Communications
As mentioned above, cell signal is not reliable when hiking in British Columbia. Beyond the problems for navigating, this also means that communication becomes tricky. Thankfully there exist communications devices that can help keep our mobiles connected to communication and get help should we need it. There are generally two categories of these devices, one which uses a satellite network to give your phone connectivity almost anywhere. The other type replaces your mobile device and acts as a separate comms device. A few can do both.
The first time I seriously considered getting a small satellite communications device was on a trail to Twin Lakes, north of Pemberton, in the back end of October. We drove an hour north of Pemberton, then another hour along a forest service road, followed by 5 or so hours of hiking. It was snowy and slippery up at the top lake. It suddenly dawned on me that if one of us was injured, it would take a minimum of 7 hours before we could even tell someone that someone needed help. After that, I bought a Garmin In Reach Mini 2, a small satellite device that send short messages, or give added connectivity to your phone in the backcountry.
There have been several iterations of the Garmin In Reach Mini, that all aim to give you peace of mind in the back country. Garmin, and other competitors all generally charge a subscription fee to use their satellite network, which as at February 2024 is about $20 per month. Whilst that may seem like a lot at a glance; for me, it’s become an essential part of my “insurance” and I think of it as a cheap way to ensure that I can always get help if I need it.
Itinerary or Hiking Plan
- This really is a basic requirement for hiking, and yet so many of us are incredibly bad at this. Every time you go out hiking, make sure that some one responsible knows where you’re going, and when you’re supposed to be back. Don’t wait to do this at the trailhead, as often you won’t find any cell signal. Instead, make a plan before you leave home, and text it to or leave it with someone.
In your hiking plan – include the following information if you have it:
- The area or trail you will be doing. Be as specific as possible.
- Any alternative hikes you are considering?
- When are you planning to be back within cell service?
- At what time should someone get worried and call search and rescue (In BC you should call 911)?
In addition you should think about the following:
- What is your group’s agreed time to turn back towards the trailhead to get back before sunset?
- What is your group’s agreed plan on how to get down if the weather changes?
Knife of Multi-Tool
A knife or multi-tool is an indispensable item for any hiker, or outdoor enthusiast for that matter. It’s often hard to imagine where you’re going to use it, until you realize its versatility and the myriad of situations you could use it. Whether it’s cutting a piece of rope, repairing gear, or preparing a snack, having a knife or multi-tool on hand makes a lot of fiddly jobs a lot easier.
I like to carry a sturdy knife that is reasonably lightweight and that folds away to hide the blade. If you choose a multi-tool, they tend to be a little heavier, but will include not just a knife, but also pliers, a screwdriver, and maybe even a can opener. These tools can help with quick fixes for gear, making adjustments on the trail, or opening food packages.
Remember, it’s not just about having it; it’s about being prepared for whatever the trail throws at you. A knife or multi-tool is a small addition to your pack that can provide big solutions in the outdoors.
Emergency Blanket or Shelter
If you or one of your group break a leg during your hike, do you have what you need to spend the night on the mountain, waiting for search and recue? At night, it gets cold fast. A simple aluminum blanket like this one can be a welcome way to retain heat. I generally carry a 2 person foil blanket with me anytime I’m in the mountains. It’s a lightweight, high impact piece of gear I hope I’ll never use.
Remember, when using warm layers, aluminum blankets or sleeping bags for that matter – these items do not make you warm, they only help you retain heat. Which means as soon as you stop, you’ll need to preserve heat as soon as possible. Do not wait until you’re cold to put on extra layers.
Source of Fire
If you need to stay put for a few hours whilst help arrives, its well worth having a set of waterproof matches, or a lighter to help you start a fire. A little warmth goes a long way when you’re out in the cold. Not only that, but get familiar with how to start a basic fire.
First Aid Kit
Basic First Aid Kit. A basic first aid kit is essential and yet this is one of those items that you may well never use. Having a small kit in your bag will not only ensure that you can deal with minor scrapes out in nature, but that you can help others who are less prepared.
A basic first aid kit should include:
- Blister Plasters or Blister Band-aids: Various sizes to cover cuts, blisters, or scrapes.
- Adhesive Bandages: Various sizes to cover cuts, blisters, or scrapes.
- Sterile Gauze Pads: For covering larger wounds or as a primary dressing.
- Adhesive Tape: Used to secure bandages and dressings in place.
- Antiseptic Wipes or Alcohol Pads: For cleaning wounds and preventing infection.
- Antibacterial Ointment: To apply to wounds after cleaning.
- Moleskin: For blister prevention or to provide relief for existing blisters.
- Tweezers: For removing splinters or ticks.
- Scissors: To cut adhesive tape, moleskin, or clothing if necessary.
- Non-Latex Gloves: To protect against contamination when providing first aid.
- Pain Relievers: Such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, for relieving minor aches and pains.
- Triangle Bandage: Can be used as a sling, tourniquet, or as a large bandage.
First Aid Knowledge. As well as the kit itself you should consider signing up for a first aid class to learn how to deal with basic and common injuries. Your first aid kit is useless if you don’t know how to use it.
Blisters. Almost certainly the most common issue you’ll deal with are blisters. Whilst these are unlikely to be life threatening, they can severely disrupt your ability to move at a sensible speed and get back to the trailhead. The longer the hike, the more important that you deal with any sign of blisters immediately. Realistically, this is a lesson that most people tend to learn the hard way.
Eye & Skin Protection
A combination of eye and skin protection is usually required, no matter the time of year. Heat stroke is particularly easy to get when hiking up hill with limited water, so do what you can to keep the sun off your head in particular, or to keep your head warm in winter.
In summer, you can likely forego the warm hat. In the winter, I often carry a cap for the hike up, and a lightweight beanie (toque) for the way down. Additionally, the snow in winter reflects the sunlight upwards from the ground and means you may find yourself getting burned in different places than normal. Sunscreen and a sun protection in general are just as important in the winter.
Water
It’s important to stay well hydrated when hiking, which includes not only how much you drink, but trying if possible to manage how much you sweat. Staying hydrated will help you in every possible way, from making better decisions, maintaining energy, and even to helping avoid altitude sickness if at higher elevations (unlikely below 2500m, though possible with intense activity). Mountainous environments are on average less humid than lower altitudes, which means you dehydrate faster.
Managing Hydration. Everyone drinks different amounts of water, though for a day hike I tend to pack at least 1.5L of water. If sunny and hot and you’re sweating a lot, consider taking more. You’ll most likely get a sense of how much you tend to drink after dong a few easier and moderate level hikes.
Water Sources. Just because you decide you need 3L of water, doesn’t necessarily mean you need to carry it all. If the trail passes by reliable streams and lakes, you may choose to refill. It is generally not recommended to drink straight from streams and lakes, so most people tend to carry a water filter or water purification tablets. There are a number of different options and costs available which all have different pros and cons.
Managing Sweat. If you’re stubbornly pushing on up a hike, in multiple warm layers, despite sweating profusely, you’re potentially creating more problems for yourself. Wet clothes means less dry layers if you need to stop and rest for an unexpected reason. More sweat also means you’ll need to drink more. And if you always need to drink more, you’ll probably carry more, making you sweat. Manage your body temperature as best as you can and avoid having to carry or drink unnecessary water.
Food
Hiking can be intense, especially in the sun, the cold, the snow or the mountains, all of which British Columbia has in abundance. Therefore its important to keep yourself fueled up to make sure you get the most out of your hike, and remain in a good state to enjoy the views (and your company!). One of my favorite trail snacks are banana brownies, which you can find in some British Columbia supermarkets. They are a small, lightweight, non-squishy, 100% banana alternative. If you find some time to make some homemade trail snacks instead, even better!
Additional Clothing Layers
There are two main considerations when deciding what additional layers to bring, which are being wet, and/or cold. Being wet in itself can be driven by external conditions (rain or other water source), or your body (sweat), so I’ll briefly cover my thought process for how to mange these.
If we assume for a second that the average hiker sets out in hiking boots, hiking socks, pants or shorts, and a t-shirt (info on these below), then the question is what else should you pack over and above your basic clothing.
A Warm Layer: If conditions change, or you need to stop for a while, you’ll need to put on a warm layer to help you retain heat. How warm a warm layer you choose should depend on the terrain and elevation where you’ll be going, as well as the obvious weather forecast. Never wait until you’re cold to put on your layers, as warm layers don’t actually make you hotter, they can only help you retain your own heat. Particularly in emergencies where you stop moving suddenly, this is essential.
A Waterproof Layer: If the rain or snow comes in, you absolutely don’t want to let yourself get wet. Being wet whilst hiking is a sure fire way to have a miserable time, a quick way to lose body heat and just generally asking for trouble.
What To Wear When Hiking in BC
Whatever clothing you choose you bring, lightweight and quick drying is generally better. You’ll see the term “moisture-wicking” a lot, which simply means that that type of material draws moisture aware from your body, generally a good thing.
- Quick-drying pants (trousers)
- Base layer (Quick drying and moisture wicking base layer / t-shirt)
- Warm mid-layers (fleece or down jacket or other insulation)
- Good waterproof / wind proof jacket
- Gloves / Hat / Sunglasses
Optional: Other Useful Items
It’s quite amazing how many problems you can solve with Gaffer Tape. From a loose boot sole, to a broken pole or strap, Gaffer Tape is probably the single most used functional item that I carry. I usually carry a pen wrapped in a single spiral of gaffa tape, that way I don’t have to carry the whole roll, and can unwind and use however much I need at a given time.
Optional: Overnight & Sanitation
If you’re thinking of an overnight camping trip, check out the packing list for camping trips in British Columbia.
Limited Budget. What Should You Prioritize?
Let’s face it – hiking gear can be expensive. With that in mind, if you’re on a tight budget, which of the above items should you prioritize for hiking in BC? Well, there are two items in my opinion that are going to make your hiking infinitely more enjoyable, comfortable, injury free and ultimately coming back for more.
Hiking Boots & Socks: Hiking is about using your feet to go places. If you end up with blisters or your feet hurt, you’re not going to have a good time. Find a pair of hiking boots or trail shoes appropriate for the trails you’ll be doing, and most importantly, don’t buy the first pair you try. People often ask – how do you know what is comfortable? From my experience, once you try 7, 8, 9 pairs in a shop, you’ll soon get an idea of what is comfortable for you and your foot shape. Good quality, tight hiking socks that don’t slip around are great for preventing blisters.
Rain Jacket: A good rain jacket is super important for hiking in British Columbia. Outside of July and August, you may well encounter rain on your hikes, and if rain is going to do anything, it’s going to make you cold, fast. It’s very rare that I don’t take a jacket at all, only on short local walks. A quality jacket will help you stay dry, consequently warm, and help you enjoy hiking for years to come.
If you’re new to hiking and are on a limited budget, or are venturing outdoors without the essential gear such as emergency blanket, communications device, head torch etc. consider difficulty, proximity to help, and popularity of trails in your plans. Popular, less remote trails, are a good place to hone your skills, get used to what you need to bring, and explore nature in an environment where there are likely to be other people around. To search for hiking trails near Vancouver, check out this blog.
If you’re looking for cheap gear, check out Vancouver’s thrift stores, which often have plenty of second hand outdoor gear.
Where to Buy Hiking Gear in Vancouver & BC?
If you’re looking for outdoor gear, the following shops and thrift stores are a good place to start.
