Pointless Ponders: What to Pack for Day Hiking or Backpacking

I am often asked what to pack or bring along on a hike. Here is a list of items that I always bring, and are recommended by rescue professionals.

Always tell someone where you are going and when you plan to get back.
Dress in layers and prepare for rain, the mountain front usually experiences surprise showers on otherwise clear days.
Wear proper shoes that fit well and have a good tread.
Always bring water and a small first aid kit.
Wear sunscreen and a hat – heat stroke can happen to anyone and is easily avoidable.
Bring a cell phone and a list of necessary numbers.

Small roll of duct tape - good for mending clothes, gear and protecting blisters
Large safety pin
Band Aids
Athletic tape for wrapping sprains
Burts Bees Res-Q ointment - good for scrapes, burns, stings
Alcohol wipes
Aspirin
Benadryl
Anti Diarreal
Small swiss army knife with tweezers
Lighter/matches/fire starter (cotton balls with vaseline work great)
Water purification tablets
Sunscreen
Thread and needle

First Aid Kit
Light weight rain jacket
Sunscreen
Wide brimmed hat
Snacks - granola bars, whole fruit
Water - at least 32 oz.
Walking poles - these transfer up to 25% of the load from your legs to your arms
Wet wipes, and extra zip lock bags
Small trash bag to carry any trash - pack it in, pack it out!
Camera/Binoculars/Pocket Trail Guide/Maps

Everything from the day hike list plus:

Light weight underlayer for chilly evenings - top and bottom
Light weight rain jacket/pants
Stocking cap and gloves
Sleeping pad
Sleeping bag
Reading material
Headlamp/Flashlight
2-3 handkerchiefs to clean up with
Biodegradable soap - Dr. Bronner's Magic Soap is good for both body and dishes
Toothpaste/toothbrush/floss (yes, floss - floss every day otherwise your mouth stinks. Trust me)
Water tablets for purification - the new ones do not have any aftertaste
2-3 water bottles - one gallon of water a day per person
Camp shoes - flip flops or crocs work well
Small campstove and pans for cooking
Utensils
Tent or groundcloth
Small, lightweight backpack or bag to take on day hikes from base camp

Pointless Ponders