Best Travel Hiking Gear of 2025
Best Travel Hiking Gear
Whenever we travel we always add in a hike on our trip, so we make sure to bring travel hiking gear. We obviously can’t bring all of our hiking gear, but I never leave without these items!
This list includes my go to hiking gear for hikes abroad. It took my husband and I quite awhile to research our favourite gear, so I help this helps you too! It can be a bit overwhelming picking out gear, so I have included all of the gear that I think is important to have. I like to keep things light when I travel, so most of these items are light weight and can fit in a carry on. I chose not to add hikng boots, and a lot of clothes because I think it is important to try them on first!
Note: if you forget something you can always buy something cheap abroad or even rent equipment. For bigger items that I do not like to carry around on a trip, I usually choose to rent them if I am doing an overnight hike. For instance, you can always rent a sleeping bag and/or tent when abroad, just make sure to have a good sleeping bag liner!
CORE GEAR
The backpacking essentials are often the heaviest and most expensive items. If you don’t feel comfortable getting high quality gear at first try buying used gear or cheaper brands. However, the thing to note with higher quality gear is that it is wayyy lighter and it will last longer.
Backpack
The Osprey 50 Liter Backpack make great backpacking backpacks. I love Osprey products as they are high quality which means they last a long time and have a great warranty. It’s very comfortable, has plenty of pockets and makes packing really simple!Day Backpack
I like to keep things light, so the Osprey Daylite Daypack is perfect for travelling. It is 13 liters and fits a CamelBak or tablet. If you need a bigger bag, Osprey has other options too. These backpacks last so long, I love them. This one in particular is really light and fits easily into a big pack for when it is not in use.
Sleeping Bag
I do not usually travel with a sleeping bag, but when I went to Nepal I brought my down bag from home. Down bags are perfect to travel with because they are lightweight and super small. The Big Agnes Lost Dog (FireLine Eco) Sleeping Bag is a great good quality bag with an amazing warranty, and it will keep you super warm.Sleeping Bag Liner
When you are travelling some beds can be gross and if you have to rent a sleeping bag, I highly reccommend the Silk Sleeping Bag Liner. by Mountain Warehouse. It is lightweight, small, and comfy.
WATER WATER WATER
Being able to filter water when you travel and when you are on the trail is one of the most importance items for survival. I have included all of the water filtrations and reservoirs that work for me.
Water Filters
The Grayl water bottle is absolutely amazing. It lasts for about 150 liters, and filters out practically everything. It has a higher price tag, but I think it is really worth it to have.For something smaller and more simple, my go to is the LifeStraw . It is always handy to have because it is small and fits anywhere. It is also great for travel and day trips from camp.
Water Reservoir and Bottles
CamelBak Water Bladder are awesome for backpacking and travelling! They are the easiest way to stay hydrated, and I typically always bring one with me. I recommend getting one that has at least a 2-liter reservoir.Prior to buying the Grayl, I have always liked the Nalgene 1 Liter Water Bottle They are cheap, durable, and I like the 1 liter measurement on the side, so I can keep track of how much I drink.
SURVIVAL GEAR
Being prepared for injuries and emergencies on the trail and when travelling is important.
Key Items to Pack
Travel Size First Aid Kit Always, always have a first aid kit and appropriate medications packed.DEET Free Bug Spray Bug spray can be a life saver in certain areas, I like to always have one on me that is DEET free.This Microfiber Travel Towel is great and packs down small. Wet Wipes are also invaluable to have!I have had the same Petzl Headlamp headlamp for over 10 years, and it has never failed. You should always have one on you when hiking and travelling.
RAIN PROTECTION
Rain Jacket
I never travel without a good quality jacket. I recommend spending a bit more on this, as it will keep you dry and comfortable, and it will last a long time. If you can’t afford a good quality jacket make sure to have a good poncho as a back up. I reccommend the The North Face Women’s Venture 2 Jacket North Face products hold up in extreme weather, and do not have the high range price tags like some other brands.
Waterproof Backpack Cover
If your backpack does not already come with one, it is important to have a good rain cover. My backpack comes with one, but I have heard great things about these Waterproof Backpack Rain Cover from Amazon, and they come in different sizes
SUN PROTECTION
Hat, Sunscreen, UV Shirt and Sunglasses
Whenever I hike, I always make sure to have a good hat, sunscreen, a UV shirt and sunglasses. These are my go to’s. I love Goodr glasses because they are polarized and stay on your head! The UV shirts from amazon are great, and have a low price tag. I recently started wearing UV shirts and I love them because I hate having alot of sunscreen on when I am on overnight hikes and they really protect your skin from the sun. This shirt is really great and I find it is breathable even when there is alot of sun exposure. Also, a good hat and good quality sunscreen are key!
OPTIONAL ITEMS
Crampons
If you are doing any alpine hiking or winter hiking you will need to have crampons to prevent slipping on the ice and snow. I have these Crampons from Amazon and they are really good, and fairly cheap. They stay on my shoe really well and they are not super bulky.Compression Packing Cubes
I never travel without packing cubes, as it is important to stay organized and pack small. I love these Compression Packing Cubes because it keeps all of my belongings neat and you can compress them to make them to fit more in your bag! Hanging Toiletry Bag is a great option.Trekking Poles
I like to hike with lightweight anti-shock Trekking Poles like these ones. They really save your knees during a hike.Inflatable Pillow
I never use pillows, but if I did I would get this inflatable Hikenture Camping Pillow. I just like to use my extra clothes for a pillow, but I understand that it is important for some people
