I hike, backpack, paddle, camp in the backcountry, snowshoe, and cross-country ski a lot every year. I’ve learned what gear works and what doesn’t, and this post rounds up the best hiking gear for 2025–2026 – the stuff I truly rely on. Some of it is pricey, but it lasts forever, or at least until you’re truly good and sick of it.
Buy quality if you can as it relates to your safety and survival. That includes good footwear, rain gear and shelter. Consider your purchase a long-term investment. For any of you trying to make a dent in what you need when it comes to the best hiking gear, I’d recommend checking out The Last Hunt, Mountain Warehouse, Decathalon, MEC branded gear and clothing and Facebook Marketplace. My friend Taryn from Happiest Outdoors also does a weekly newsletter roundup of Canadian Outdoor Gear Deals that is very helpful.
You might also like: Tips on How to Make Outdoor Gear & Clothing More Sustainable
This roundup of the best hiking gear includes items I’ve tested for years on trails across Canada, the United States, Norway, Sweden, Spain, Italy, France, Switzerland, Tanzania, Morocco, Iceland and even in the Caribbean.
This post includes some affiliate links. If you make a qualifying purchase through one of these links, I will receive a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. I very much appreciate your support.
The North Coast Trail is one of those places where you want the best hiking gear because of the climate and tough hiking conditions
Best hiking gear for day hikes
1. Daypack
Gregory Targhee 30 L Backpack (MEC )
I like a 30L daypack because I almost always have my bulky camera with me – and anything made by Gregory has stood the test of time. This one features an adjustable torso, dual side mesh pockets, a trekking pole attachment, and reflective gear loops.
2. Hiking shoes
Salomon X Ultra Mid 4 Gore-Tex Light Trail Shoes (MEC I Valhalla Pure)
What fits one person, doesn’t fit another. I have used these Salomon’s or a version of them for the past decade. They work well for me with my wide foot – but I think you need to find a brand that works for you. I haven’t bothered with leather hiking boots in years because of their weight – and haven’t found that decision wanting.
3. Trekking poles
Black Diamond Distance Carbon FLZ Trekking Poles (MEC I Amazon)
These poles collapse into a little bit of weightlessness and easily fit into a pocket on your backpack. When I pick up my old, heavier hiking poles and compare to these ones I can’t believe the difference. They are worth every penny. Just be sure to get the sizing right as they ARE NOT adjustable.
4. Headlamp
Fenix HM61R V2.0 Rechargeable Headlamp (MEC I Amazon)
I have a basic headlamp that does the job if nothing goes wrong. And then I have a powerful Fenix headlamp that illuminates a trail in the dark really well. It’s more expensive, but if you get caught out in the dark, or you’re riding a bike through an inky black tunnel like I did last year, this is the headlamp to have.
5. Water filter
Katadyn BeFree AC 1L Microfilter (MEC I Amazon)
In the summer I always carry this water filter as you can simply fill from a stream, river or lake and drink. When you’re finished, it packs down into nothing.
6. Emergency locator device
Garmin inReach Mini 2 (MEC I Amazon)
I know many people with iPhones that have now have satellite SOS and messaging are forgoing an InReach. But the downside to your phone is limited battery and coverage. The Garmin inReach might save your life one day, so I think it’s worth the investment. You do need a basic subscription at a minimum once you’ve bought it.
My friend Scot using the Black Diamond Distance Carbon FLZ Trekking Poles on the Alta Via 2 in the Dolomites
Hiking navigation – some of the best hiking gear for staying on track
1. Best free hiking app
Organic Maps – I use Organic Maps exclusively. It’s a free, offline hiking app with all the features you need – though there is a learning curve to make the most of it.
2. What most of the world uses
All Trails is likely the most used hiking app. The only reason I ever go to All Trails is to get timely trail updates, but I prefer Organic Maps.
3. Battery backup
BioLite Charge 80 PD Power Bank ( MEC )
This pocket-friendly 20,000mAh power bank charges your phones in only four hours. It comes with a four-level battery indicator.
Screen shot from Organic Maps showing some of my tracks
Hiking emergency kit
1. Lighter
Survive Outdoors Longer Fire Lite Fuel Free Lighter (MEC I Amazon)
Of course, you can always pick up a couple of cheap Bic lighters at any convenience store, but if you’re after a fuel-free lighter that has an electric arc as an ignition source – and can light in wind or rain than this is an excellent choice. You get 45 uses on a single charge.
2. Water purification tablets
Aquatabs Water Purification Tablets (MEC I Amazon)
I always have Aquatabs in my pack. They-re almost weightless and in just 30 minutes you can have a litre of safe drinking water.
3. Chews for energy
Clif Shot Bloks Energy Chews (MEC I Amazon)
I’ll chew three or four Clif Shot Bloks (changing up the flavours every few days) when I’m in need of an energy boost. I found they really helped in mid-afternoon, when my energy was waning on the Alta Via 2.
4. Whistle
Fox 40 Classic Whistle (MEC I Amazon)
Many backpacks come with a built-in whistle now. But if yours doesn’t, be sure to purchase a whistle and carry it with you. It’s also a good idea to set up a signal with a partner or friend e.g. three short blasts mean help.
5. Duct tape
Survive Outdoors Longer Duct Tape (MEC I Amazon)
Duct tape can get you out of many a pinch including fixing a cracked water bottle or mending broken boots.
6. Bivy sac
Survive Outdoors Longer Escape Lite Bivy (MEC I Amazon)
I admit that I often don’t carry a bivy sac with me – but it’s the smart thing to do, especially on longer, more difficult day hikes. This waterproof, breathable bivy sac weighs in at just 156 g. It’s capable of reflecting 70% of your body heat back at you.
7. Compass
Suunto MC-2 NH Mirror Compass (MEC I Amazon)
I learned to navigate with a compass, though I realize most hikers don’t reach for one these days. But if your phone battery drops to zero, a map and compass can still save the day – assuming you know the basics. I prefer this one because the declination is adjustable and the mirror works well for sighting bearings or even popping in your contacts
9. Calorie rich snacks
I would suggest purchasing a bag of salted mixed nuts, carry good quality chocolate, and packing several high protein energy bars.
10. Sunscreen
Bioré UV Aqua Rich Weightless Moisturizer with SPF 50 (Amazon)
This moisturizer with SPF 50 UVA & UVB is feather-light, spreads easily and absorbs instantly to hydrate and help protect from UV rays. It’s my new go-to after getting a recommendation from a hiking friend.
11. Lip protection
Pick up a tube of lip balm that will both hydrate and protect your lips with an SPF 15 rating at a minimum. This one is reef safe too.
12. Sun hat
Sunday Afternoons sun hat (Amazon)
This hat protects both your head and your neck – via a six-inch neck cape. It comes with a 50+ UPF sun rating too. I have had several Sunday Afternoons hats and appreciate how practical and well-made they are.
Another option is the Sunday Afternoons Outback Storm Hat – which is great for both sun and rain.
John sporting the Outback Storm Hat by Sunday Afternoons
Hiking clothes
Some of the best hiking gear is the clothing you wear every day: quick-dry layers, a solid fleece, good socks, and a bomber rain shell.
1. Quick dry hiking pants
Columbia Women’s Summit Valley Convertible Pant (Amazon)
I love being able to convert pants to shorts. They are quick drying and feature a zippered cargo pocket. Columbia’s version comes at a good price point too.
2. Quick dry hiking shorts
My favourite hiking shorts are the Lole Bermuda shorts, but they seem to be discontinuing them. My next choice – because I love their pants so much is the stretch Fjällräven Nikka Shorts Curved. They offer good freedom of movement and a higher cut at the back to fit better with a backpack.
3. Quick dry short-sleeve hiking t-shirts
Everyone has their favourite short-sleeve hiking shirt. I want ultra-light ones on hot summer days (MEC) and heavier merino wool t-shirts on cooler days.
4. Quick dry long-sleeve hiking t-shirts
There are a couple of quick dry shirts I like. One is an inexpensive, super lightweight (150 g) long-sleeved shirt by MEC – and the other a Fjallraven merino wool shirt.
5. Fleece layer
Patagonia Better Sweater Jacket (MEC I Valhalla Pure)
I love the Patagonia Better Sweater Jacket. It’s just the right weight for coolish days over a t-shirt. It comes with a couple of zippered pockets and two roomy interior pockets. It seemingly lasts forever.
6. Hiking socks
Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks (MECI Valhalla Pure)
Darn Tough, a Vermont-based company unconditionally guarantees their merino wool socks for life. I love a company that stands behind their product, and these people do an incredible job. I love their socks too – especially the feel and the variety of prints.
7. Rain shell + rain pants
Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket – Women’s (Valhalla Pure I MEC)
Arc’teryx Beta Pant- Women’s (MEC I Valhalla Pure)
If you’re an occasional hiker in a mostly dry climate, an inexpensive pair of rain pants will usually do the job – though I always suggest investing in a good rain jacket. But if you’re out in conditions where hypothermia is a real risk, quality matters. The rain shell and rain pants from Arc’teryx are both excellent choices. I have had both pieces for years.
John decked out in the best hiking gear for rain on a wet hike in Frontenac Provincial Park
Best hiking gear for trail safety and comfort
1. Bear spray
Bear spray can only be bought in person. I always put the date I purchased it on the bottom of the can, so I know to replace it three years later. Bear spray costs between $60 and $80 per can.
2. Bear Holster
Kodiak Bear Necessities Holster (MEC)
Bear spray needs to be instantly accessible and not packed away in your backpack. But you also don’t want to set it off inadvertently – and a holster will make sure that doesn’t happen.
3. Insect head net
Sea To Summit Ultra-Fine Mesh Headnet (MEC I Valhalla Pure)
If you’ve every been attacked by swarms of biting insects, you already know the importance of a fine meshed headnet. Forget one at your peril.
4. Insect repellent
Ben’s 30% Deet Wilderness Insect Repellent Pump Spray (MEC I Amazon)
Lots of people hate Deet – and I get that – but in my considerable experience outside, insect repellent with Deet is the only way to go because it works.
5. Tick remover tool
LifeSystems Tick Tweezers (MEC I Amazon)
Ticks are awful. I think we’re all grossed out when we find one crawling on us. And they can be hard to get out. Pack a pair of tick tweezers, especially in areas where ticks are a big problem.
Decked out in a head net for the hike on a portage that bypasses Sluice Falls
Backpacking gear
When it comes to the best hiking gear for backpacking, reliability matters more than anything.
1. Tent
MSR Elixir 3-Person Tent (MEC)
MEC Spark UL 2-Person Tent (MEC)
If I’m heading out backpacking with my husband and dog, we always take our MSR Elixir 3-person tent. We’ve had our present tent for years – and the only issue has been a couple of small holes which we patched with Gear Aid tape. The tent is roomy inside and very fast to put up.
For trips when it’s just me, the dog, and a few friends and John stays home, I switch to our lightweight Spark tent. It’s the perfect size for those outings.
2. Backpack – 50 – 70 L
Osprey Ariel 65 Backpack – Women’s (MEC I Valhalla Pure)
Head out on a multi-day hike and have a look at the packs people are carrying. Osprey is a front-runner, judging from what I’ve seen. I love mine – the fit, the way it loads, and the compartments for all my gear.
3. Sleeping bag
Sleeping bags are such a personal choice. Some people are fine in a mummy bag – though I find it confining. I like my feet free while others want to be fully zipped up. It’s a good idea to go into an outdoor store and climb into some sleeping bags to see what you think.
Our six-year-old sleeping bags made by Feathered Friends in Seattle have been great. They’re lightweight and warm and as good as new.
4. Sleeping pad
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT (MEC I Valhalla Pure)
We have had some epic fails with sleeping pads in the last few years. On two trips – both a weeklong – John’s sleeping pad has failed. One was an ultralight pad with issues along the seam so there was no way to fix it. The other was a poor-quality sleeping pad that failed after a few uses. We weren’t reckless, blowing up the mattress inside the tent.
Our latest sleeping pad comes highly recommended by a friend who backpacks as much as I do. The price point is high, but I’m told we’ll have the most comfortable sleep in a tent with one of these. Stay tuned.
5. Sleeping pillow
Therm-a-Rest Air Head Down Pillow (MEC I Amazon)
I try a make a pillow with my clothes but inevitably it all falls apart by the middle of the night. Weighing in at 140 g, this down pillow is a game changer for comfort.
6. Water purification
Platypus Quickdraw Ultralight 3L Backpacking Gravity Water Filter System (Amazon I Valhalla) Pure)
If you’re after an ultralight, no-fuss water filtration setup, the QuickDraw 3L gravity system is a great choice for hikers. You’ll get a fast flow rate – up to 3 L per minute when you squeeze, or about 1.75 L per minute when you run it as a gravity filter.
The Connect Cap threads onto any standard 28 mm water bottle, including smartwater bottles, select Cnoc bags, soda bottles, and more. The hose and bottle adapter also fit both wide- and narrow-mouth Nalgenes, HydroFlasks, Cnoc bags, and most Yeti bottles, so it’s easy to mix and match with whatever you already carry.
7. Backpacking stove
MSR WhisperLite International Stove (MEC I Valhalla Pure)
We have been using the WhisperLite International stove for decades – partially because it’s been easy to purchase fuel overseas on backpacking trips. What I don’t like a- the noise it makes – but what I do love is the adjustment in the flame as we usually cook real food in the backcountry.
I also have a Forclaz Remote gas stove with lighter – MT500 from Decathalon. It weighs next to nothing, and screws into gas cannisters which I recycle when finished. For those of you wanting to pack light – and boil water, this is an excellent stove. It’s got a built-in piezo so no need for matches either.
8. Pots/pans
I don’t eat out of a bag in the backcountry – and prefer to cook a real meal. On multi-day trips I’ll whip up pancakes, fry steaks with Naan bread, make a salad – an outlier in the backpacking world.
I have a non-stick pan that’s just a little smaller than the Jetboil 10″ Fry Pan. For pots I use the MSR Alpine 2 pot set – though I usually only bring one pot. I know it’s heavier than others on the market, but I’m attached to it as I’ve used it for more that 20 years.
9. Camping mug
GSI Infinity Backpacker Mug (MEC I Amazon )
When friends go on a backpacking trip in Banff National Park – and they all pull out the same mug – you know you’re onto something great. The GSI Infinity mug is lightweight, comfortable to hold, and can double as a measuring cup. It also comes with a snug press-fit lid to help prevent spill
Not scripted – and all drinking from the GSI backpackers mug
10. Bear vault and/or Ursack
BearVault BV475 Trek Portable Bear Resistant Canister (MEC I Amazon)
I pack my bear vault when I know there are no bear lockers or trees where I’m heading. In some places like Grizzly Lake in the Yukon, they insist you have a bear vault – but the park will rent them to you.
Ursack Major Bear Resistant Bag (MEC I Valhalla Pure)
I don’t own a Ursack but I did use one for a week while backpacking in Kluane National Park in the Yukon. They are on the heavier size, but they do keep your food safe. The company we traveled with has never had any issues with bears getting into the bag.
11. Camp towel
Sustainable compact towel ( MEC )
Made with a recycled poly blend, MEC’s camp towel is super absorbent and quick drying. With an antimicrobial finish it stays smelling fresh. It comes in four sizes from face to beach size.
12. Camp chair
Helinox Camp Chair mini (MEC I Valhalla Pure)
If I’m backpacking for 2 – 4 days, I always pack my Helinox camp chair. It feels so good to have back support at the end of a long hiking day. And if it’s wet, you’re off the ground. It’s one of life’s small luxuries.
13. Campshoes
Crocs have been my go-to camp shoes for years. They’re lightweight, waterproof, comfy, can be worn with socks, and protect your toes more than flip flops.
Disappointed that you didn’t get one of the campsites you wanted? Sign up and pay a small fee with either Schnerp or Campnab to be notified the minute a campsite on your wish list opens up.
Our MSR Elixir 3-person tent in Woodland Caribou Provincial Park
The best hiking gear for cold weather: what I use for hiking, snowshoeing & cross-country ski says
For winter, the best hiking gear is all about warmth, traction, and staying dry.
1. Microspikes
Kahtoola MICROspikes Traction Device – Unisex (MEC I Amazon)
If you’re out on the trails in Canada during winter, you need to be prepared for icy conditions. I keep my microspikes in my pack from October to June – especially with shaded areas holding ice for long periods. They will keep you upright and prevent a bad fall.
2. Thermal tops and bottoms
Smartwool Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer 1/4 Zip ( MEC I Valhalla Pure)
Smartwool Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer Bottom (MEC I Valhalla Pure)
I love my Smartwool tops and bottoms. They’re soft, they keep me warm and I don’t stink after several days on the trail. I’ve bought a lot of Icebreaker in the past as it also has all the above properties, but I find – as do friends – that it’s prone to getting tiny holes – not cool for the price of Icebreaker.
3. Down coat
Patagonia Down Sweater – Women’s (MEC I Valhalla Pure)
Patagonia Down Sweater – Men’s (MEC I Valhalla Pure)
I’ve had my Patagonia down sweater for at least 10 years. It loses the odd feather now and then, but it’s still as warm and packable as ever. Good news too. It’s made with third-party certified traceable down from non-live plucked birds and the facility that supplies them doesn’t use force feeding.
4. Extra warm jacket
Fjällräven Expedition Pack Down Hoodie ( Fjällräven I Amazon )
I absolutely love my down hoodie from Fjällräven. It’s lightweight (435 g), made with ethically sourced down – and very warm. Their colours are good and its very packable if you’re traveling.
5. Winter pants
Arc’teryx Gamma MX Pant (Valhalla Pure I MEC)
These breathable, stretchy pants resist wind and weather on winter hikes. They’re warm for their weight, incredibly durable, and designed with a gusseted crotch and easy-access pockets for great freedom of movement.
6. Extra warm socks
Darn Tough Number 2 Midweight Cushion Micro Crew Socks – Unisex (MEC I Amazon)
You can’t go wrong with any of the Darn Tough socks. Choose their midweight socks in winter for added warmth.
7. Mittens
Leki Glace 3D Mitt ( Altitude Sports I Amazon )
Years ago, Leki sent me a pair of these lightweight mittens – and I still have them. They are five-fingered inside – and very soft and warm.
7a. Heated fingermitts
Auclair High Performance Heated mittens (Auclair)
8. Handwarmers and toewarmers
Ignik Handwarmers (MEC I Amazon)
Ignik Toewarmers (MEC)
Last year I switched to Ignik and I love this brand. Each pair of handwarmers is in its own re-usable and 100% recyclable outer pouch so they can stay warm up to 10 hours. The activated warmer can be paused for up to 3 days, by putting them in the resealable outer pouch. You can compost the contents of the pouch or use it as fertilizer.
9. Headband
Fjällräven Logo headband (Valhalla Pure I Fjällräven )
I’m a fan. My ears stay warm, but my head doesn’t overheat. And for once I match my down coat.
10. Neckwarmer
Smartwool Thermal Merino Reversible Neck Gaiter – Unisex (MEC I Valhalla Pure)
Neckwarmers take up no room but can make the difference between staying warm and comfortable or not – especially if it’s windy too.
Heated mittens by Auclair, coat and headband by Fjallraven
Backcountry bathroom essentials
It’s a great idea to have a bathroom bag – where toilet paper and hand sanitizer reside along with resealable bags so you can pack your toilet paper out.
1. Hand sanitizer
Dr. Bronner’s Lavender Organic Hand Sanitizer (MEC)
Don’t forget to pack hand sanitizer from your local pharmacy or grocery store. – though lavender scented sounds even better.
2. Toilet paper and a sealable bag
Tissue on the Go (MEC I Amazon)
I like this bathroom tissue as it hardly takes up any space.
3. Trowel
Coghlan’s Trowel (MEC)
There are places where it’s easy to dig a hole in the dirt with your boot, but if that isn’t an option this inexpensive trowel will get the job done.
Carry a toilet bag wit hand sanitizer and tp for those times backcountry campsites don’t have outhouses
Best hiking gear for after your outing
1. Foam Roller
TriggerPoint GRID Foam Roller (Amazon)
My husband loves to roll and get out all the kinks after days carrying a pack. It comes with a free online instructional video.
2. TheraGun Mini Massage Gun
Theragun Mini by Therabody (Amazon)
Have a pressure point or a knot that is giving you grief? Put the mini Theragun to work – and in short order you should feel some relief.
At a campsite I was at this past summer a fellow pulled one of these out of his bag. I think he could have charged good money judging by the interest – though I think it’s best left for the car as it weighs in at 940g.
3. Electrolyte Hydration Tablets
Nuun Sport Electrolyte Replacement Tablets (MEC I Amazon)
I am not a fan of electrolyte replacement. I tried Nuun repeatedly when I cycled long days on the Tour d’Afrique in Africa, but I can’t handle the salty-like taste. But I’m the outlier – and most of my hiking friends swear by these tablets.
4. Highback chair
Helinox Chair One High-Back (Amazon I Valhalla Pure)
What’s better than a mini Helinox chair? The Helinox Highback Chair! It’s both lightweight and comfortable, making it ideal for camping, road trips, and backyard lounging. It packs down small, sets up in seconds, and offers great support after a long hike. Despite the minimal weight, it’s sturdy and durable – the kind of chair you’ll end up taking everywhere.
Best first aid gear for hiking
I’ve put together my own first aid kit for hiking – a small but essential part of the best hiking gear to carry. I’d add more for a longer, remote backpacking trip, but for everyday use, this does the trick.
Bandages – I like the biodegradable ones made by Woolaid
Blister care – Leukotape and Compeed
Alcohol wipes
Antibiotic cream like Neosporin
Drugs – Advil and/or Tylenol for headaches and pain, Benadryl for allergic reactions, aspirin for any heart or stroke symptoms.
Day to day prescription drugs
Final thoughts on the best hiking gear
New products show up every year. There are some real breakthroughs like rechargeable headlamps – and some of the materials used in outdoor gear changes significantly over time. I do my best to purchase the best hiking gear I can afford – stuff that lasts – and the best hiking gear should hold up season after season without adding to clothing waste.
Starting my granddaughters off at a young age on overnight backpacking trips
Hiking and backpacking trips you might enjoy
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