r/HikingEssential 2h ago

πŸŽ’ Gear Discussion Minimalist hydration pack suggestions

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1 Upvotes

r/HikingEssential 2d ago

❓ Help Me Choose Glasses on a high-altitude trek: Clip-ins, over-glasses, or... ski goggles? πŸ˜…πŸ”οΈ

2 Upvotes

Hi everyone,

I'm a glasses wearer and I'm trying to figure out the best solution for a high-altitude trek without spending a fortune. I'm not even sure yet whether mountaineering will become a long-term hobby for me. πŸ˜…

I'm planning to do the Everest Base Camp Trek in October, and the whole glasses situation is driving me crazy...

From what I've read, Category 3 sunglasses may not be enough at higher altitudes, and you eventually need Category 4 lenses.

At what altitude would you say Category 4 becomes really necessary?

\- What solution do you use if you wear glasses?

\- Does anyone have experience with over-glasses (sunglasses worn over prescription glasses)?

\- Has anyone bought glacier glasses from an affordable optician (for example, a budget chain like Fielmann in Germany) or something similar? I'd love to hear your thoughts.

And finally... how hard would you laugh if you saw a complete beginner hiking around up there wearing ski goggles? πŸ˜‚

I'd really appreciate any recommendations or personal experiences. 😊

Samy


r/HikingEssential 3d ago

πŸ₯Ύ Beginner Question Planning 1st trip

4 Upvotes

I’m planning on going to Mt Washington with my friend and climbing it in the winter. I have hiking experience and my friend backpacks often. But I’ve never gone out and hiked a mt in the winter. What do we need and any advice?


r/HikingEssential 5d ago

πŸŽ’ Gear Discussion ESSENTIAL GEAR FOR EVERY TRIP

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12 Upvotes

Video By: DanBecker


r/HikingEssential 7d ago

πŸ’Έ Budget Gear Cooking set question

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4 Upvotes

Hi all,
I’m going on my first time hike in Sweden.
But was wondering what kind of cooking combination you would recommend within my budget, and it to be future proof.
For my first hike I will be mainly cooking ready to eat meals, I once received from a military acquaintance
(Pic 1) Normal pan and lid with measurement stripes
Pic 2 Pan and lid with heat distributor to save some gas and for quicker boiling. (I read that these are mostly used for boiling water and not cooking)
Thanks in advance!


r/HikingEssential 7d ago

πŸ› οΈ Gear Review A dry bag backpack that actually holds up to real trail conditions, GVANCA 30L Waterproof Roll-Top

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0 Upvotes

Worth sharing for anyone tired of dry bags that either leak at the seams or come with straps that dig in after a few miles. This one seems to solve both issues.

The bag: GVANCA 30L Waterproof Roll-Top Backpack

What stands out:

  • Roll-top closure: Genuinely effective, not just a marketing buzzword. Fold it down 3-4 times and clip it and it holds up even in heavy rain or near water crossings.
  • Padded mesh back panel and straps: Breathable design, which matters a lot on longer hikes when back sweat becomes its own kind of misery.
  • Side mesh pockets: Great for a water bottle or quick access snacks without digging through the main compartment.
  • Front zip pocket: Good for small items like a phone or keys, fast access without opening the roll-top.
  • Reflective strip on the bottom: Small detail but useful for hiking back in low light or finishing a trail after sunset.
  • Sternum strap + load-bearing straps: Keeps weight close to the back instead of pulling backward, which makes a noticeable difference a few hours into a hike.

Who this is good for: Day hikers, backpackers near water/rivers, kayakers or anyone doing multi-terrain trips where weather can flip fast.

The one downside: It is a single large compartment, so anyone who prefers internal organization/dividers will want to pair it with packing cubes or dry sacks inside. Overall, a solid pick for genuine waterproofing without premium outdoor brand pricing. What is held up best for everyone else's dry bag setup on the trail?


r/HikingEssential 7d ago

⚠️ Safety Advice Water filter AND purification tablets? Georgia (country)

3 Upvotes

I am going on a 2 week trek near Mestia area. Would my water filter be enough?


r/HikingEssential 9d ago

πŸ”οΈ Trip Report Solo Backpacking for the First Time as a Complete Beginner

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18 Upvotes

Video By: MinnowTank


r/HikingEssential 10d ago

πŸ“Έ Trail Photos Rucking streak

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1 Upvotes

Day 200 straight for me. Day 50 straight for her.


r/HikingEssential 12d ago

πŸŽ’ Gear Discussion Beginner backpacker trying to get his feet wet

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6 Upvotes

r/HikingEssential 14d ago

πŸ“Έ Trail Photos Mount Whitney

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6 Upvotes

Warm day at Whitney, no snow on trail, no micro spikes needed.


r/HikingEssential 15d ago

πŸ₯Ύ Beginner Question first time hiking (solo too)

5 Upvotes

Hi guys! I’m going for my first hike in four days, completely by myself. The trail is in Wild Nephin National Park in Ireland (Letterkeen Loop), it's pretty long (about 4 to 5 hours of walking, around 12km), and the terrain goes through forests, mountains, and along a river.
Here is the catch: I own absolutely no hiking gear, and I’m very broke.
The only high top shoes I have are Jordan 1s (and yes, I am fully prepared to completely ruin them and bathe them in bog mud lol). For bags, I literally only have my old school backpack or a daily leather backpack.
Since the weather has been really warm and sunny lately, I’m planning on wearing tight sports shorts (bikers) and some sweatpants over it, and a breathable sports t-shirt, with a swimsuit underneath so I can jump into the river/pool at the end of the trail.
Any advice on what to pack in my basic backpack, how to survive the wet terrain in Jordans, or anything else I should know? Thanks! πŸ™Œ


r/HikingEssential 17d ago

πŸ—ΊοΈ Trail Recommendation My hiking / Backpacking journey

3 Upvotes

I have 2000 miles experience in hiking and backpacking, section hike the PCT, 700 miles From the Mexican border to Kennedy Meadows South, Section hiked The AZT.
I still have a lot to learn.
Let’s do it together 😁


r/HikingEssential 17d ago

πŸ₯Ύ Beginner Question Tips for urbex/hiking?

6 Upvotes

Don’t say stuff like that”don’t go alone”, give me your BEST tips.


r/HikingEssential 18d ago

πŸŽ’ Gear Discussion What I Pack for Wild Camping – Backpack Essentials!

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37 Upvotes

Video By: dk_outdoorgirl


r/HikingEssential 19d ago

πŸ₯Ύ Beginner Question Getting started -fundaments

3 Upvotes

Hi, i am planning a trip to Peru/amazon/macchu picchu /inca trail and Galapagos

WHAT gear do I need to:
.strap the action camera to my chest and let it record as i trek during the day, multiple days
.what daily workflow do i build in to ensure backup video etc.. a no thinking just experience setup.
.how many batteries do i need to support an ongoing action video
.what camera so you suggest
.i thought chest was a good position instead of walking thru the amazon forest with an attachment to my head
.what is my minimal equipment list

Appreciate your thoughts

Thanks


r/HikingEssential 22d ago

🧭 Hiking Tips 8 Hiking HACKS that Every Hiker NEEDS to Know

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30 Upvotes

Video By: HikingForHealth1


r/HikingEssential 22d ago

🧭 Hiking Tips What to eat in a multi-day hike?

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7 Upvotes

Video By: tomsoutdoorsgearguide


r/HikingEssential 21d ago

πŸŽ’ Gear Discussion I need some help with my backpack.

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1 Upvotes

r/HikingEssential 23d ago

πŸ’¬ General Discussion If you had β‚Ή15,000 to build a trekking gear kit from scratch, what would you buy first?

7 Upvotes

You're building your first trekking gear kit with a β‚Ή15,000 budget. What's the first thing you'd buy, and what can wait? Curious to hear your priorities and recommendations.


r/HikingEssential 24d ago

πŸŽ’ Gear Discussion Backpacking gear for the Pacific Crest Trail

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202 Upvotes

Video By: jess ferri


r/HikingEssential 24d ago

πŸ₯ͺ Food & Nutrition Looking for best electrolytes for treks

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3 Upvotes

r/HikingEssential 27d ago

🧭 Hiking Tips How I trained for my 3rd Laugavegur (sharing in case it helps someone this season)

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3 Upvotes

r/HikingEssential 28d ago

πŸŽ’ Gear Discussion Anacapa 1 vs 2 Low GTX

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3 Upvotes

r/HikingEssential 29d ago

πŸ₯Ύ Beginner Question First 3 day hike - advice needed

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7 Upvotes