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Day Hiking Essentials: The Gear You Need for Quick Trail Adventures

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What are the basics for tackling a weekend day hike? We’ve got you covered with our editors’ picks for the bare necessities.

Pack? Check. Rain shell? Check. Headlamp, BUFF, water bottle? Don’t worry, we won’t overload you with a bunch of gear you don’t need for a day hike. But there are some essentials you should carry with you for a safe and fun day on the trail.

In this video, we show you the types of gear you’ll need, along with a few handy suggestions our editors recommend. And be sure to let us know the gear you can’t hike without!

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