Planning a Hike - A List of Gear

When planning a hike it helps to have a checklist of items that will make your adventure more enjoyable. I classify hiking gear into three categories: essential for all hikes, keep it fun, and hard-core.

Essential for All Hikes

• Water using BPA-free water bottles and food (e.g., meals, snacks, energy bars)
  
• Sun care for lips and skin supplemented with a hat (i.e., a bucket hat is my preference)
  
• Trail map
• Watch
• Waterproof Camera: what's the point if you can't share your adventures with friends and family?
  

Keep It Fun

• iPod: keeps your tunes rock'in when your favorite radio stations go dark in the mountains
• Sandals: your feet will thank you after a hike when you take off your socks and boots to put on some arid sandals
• Bug spray: trail maps and guides tend to leave out bug hubs
  
• Rain jacket: storms can come out of nowhere in the Rocky Mountains
  
• Real hiking boots: not basketball shoes or running shoes
• Two pairs of socks: blisters can compromise your next hike
  
• Hand sanitizer: especially if you're changing diapers :)
• Sun glasses
• Hiking with kids: Kelty child carrier backpack, baby sunscreen, baby hat, baby bug spray, and diaper bags.
• Hiking with dogs: collapsible pet bowls, dog packs, dog waste bags, dog leash, and dog treats.
  

Hard-Core for Long Hikes and Overnight Expeditions

• Topographic map and compass
• Knife
• First aid kit
• Flashlight
• Waterproof matches
• Whistle
• Lightweight thermal blanket
  

What am I missing?