Getting started with hiking doesn't have to be expensive or complicated. You don't need every piece of outdoor gear you see in a store. For most beginners, a few reliable essentials are enough to stay comfortable and prepared.
This guide covers what to buy first, what you can skip, and two beginner-friendly product options worth considering.
The Beginner Hiking Essentials
1. Hiking Shoes or Boots
Good footwear is one of the most important things to get right. Trail shoes are lightweight and great for easier trails, while hiking boots can provide more support on rough or uneven paths.
Best for: Comfort, traction, and trail support.
2. Daypack (15–30L)
A 15–30L daypack is usually enough for a day hike. Use it for water, snacks, extra layers, a small first-aid kit, and other essentials.
Best for: Carrying your gear comfortably.
3. Moisture-Wicking Clothing
Choose synthetic or merino wool clothing instead of cotton when possible. These materials help manage sweat and keep you more comfortable when the weather changes.
Best for: Staying dry and comfortable.
What You Can Skip for Now
When you're new to hiking, you don't need to buy everything at once.
Trekking poles: Useful for steep or longer hikes, but not essential for easy trails.
GPS watches: Your phone with an offline map can cover basic navigation needs.
40L+ backpacks: Usually unnecessary for simple day hikes.
Expensive hardshells: A basic rain jacket can be enough for occasional hikes.
Crampons or microspikes: Only needed for icy or snowy conditions.
My suggestion: Start with the basics and add specialized gear as your hiking experience grows.
What Should You Buy First?
If you're building your hiking kit from scratch, prioritize your gear like this:
| Priority | Gear | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hiking shoes/boots | Comfort and traction |
| 2 | Daypack | Carries your essentials |
| 3 | Water | Important for every hike |
| 4 | Weather layer | Helps with changing conditions |
| 5 | Navigation | Helps you stay on route |
| 6 | First-aid kit | Useful for small problems |
How to Choose Hiking Shoes
Before buying hiking footwear, keep these simple tips in mind:
Try them on with the socks you plan to hike in.
Make sure your toes have enough room.
Check that your heel feels secure.
Walk around before buying to check comfort.
Break in new boots or shoes before a longer hike.
My suggestion: Comfort and fit should come before brand names or extra features.
2 Beginner-Friendly Products to Consider
If you want to start with a simple setup, these two types of products are worth checking:
1. Lightweight Trail Shoes
A good pair of trail shoes can be a great choice for beginners hiking on maintained trails. Look for good grip, comfortable cushioning, and a secure fit.
Pros:
Lightweight
Easy to wear
Good for day hikes
Usually less bulky than boots
Cons:
Less ankle coverage than boots
Not ideal for every type of rough terrain
HOKA Kaha 3 GTX Hiking Boots
Waterproof hiking boots with GORE-TEX construction, cushioned dual-density EVA midsole, and Vibram Megagrip outsole for traction on varied terrain.
2. 20–25L Hiking Daypack
A compact daypack is useful for carrying water, snacks, a rain layer, and basic safety gear without feeling oversized.
Pros:
Easy to carry
Good for day hikes
Enough space for essentials
Usually lighter than large hiking packs
Cons:
Limited space for overnight trips
Fit and comfort can vary by design
Osprey Talon 22 Pack
A lightweight 22-liter multisport backpack with a breathable AirScape back panel, adjustable harness and hipbelt, hydration compatibility, and attachment points for hiking and cycling gear.
My suggestion: For your first hikes, focus on comfortable footwear and a well-fitted daypack before spending money on advanced gear.
Common Beginner Mistakes
Wearing cotton: It can hold moisture and become uncomfortable when wet.
Carrying too little water: Bring enough for your route and weather conditions.
Wearing brand-new footwear: Test new shoes before a longer hike.
Ignoring the weather: Check the forecast and trail conditions before leaving.
Skipping navigation: Download an offline map before heading out.
Wearing cotton: It can hold moisture and become uncomfortable when wet.
Carrying too little water: Bring enough for your route and weather conditions.
Wearing brand-new footwear: Test new shoes before a longer hike.
Ignoring the weather: Check the forecast and trail conditions before leaving.
Skipping navigation: Download an offline map before heading out.
Beginner Hiking Tips
Start with short, well-marked trails.
Check the weather before you leave.
Tell someone where you're going and when you expect to return.
Take your time instead of starting too fast.
Bring water, snacks, and a light weather layer.
Start with short, well-marked trails.
Check the weather before you leave.
Tell someone where you're going and when you expect to return.
Take your time instead of starting too fast.
Bring water, snacks, and a light weather layer.
Final Take
You don't need a huge gear collection to start hiking. Comfortable trail shoes, a good daypack, enough water, suitable clothing, and basic navigation are a great starting point.
My suggestion: Buy the essentials first, try a few beginner-friendly trails, and upgrade your gear as you learn what works best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
A: For most beginner day hikes on moderate, well-maintained trails, trail shoes are enough. Boots become more useful on rougher, uneven, or longer terrain where extra ankle support helps.
A: A general guideline is about half a liter per hour of moderate hiking, adjusted upward for heat, elevation, or higher-intensity trails.
A: Wearing cotton clothing is one of the most common mistakes — it holds moisture and can leave you cold and uncomfortable once you start sweating.
A: Yes — even short hikes can involve minor injuries like blisters or scrapes, and a small pre-made kit is inexpensive and easy to carry.
A: Costs vary widely, but a solid beginner kit (shoes, daypack, water system, basic layers, and safety items) can typically be assembled at a range of price points, from budget-friendly to mid-range, without needing premium technical gear.