Grab our favorite items from our packing list to help make your trip run smoothly.
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National Park Pass
America The Beautiful Pass
Don’t forget to purchase your national park pass before heading out to the park. It will save you some time at the gate so you can get hiking instead of waiting.
If you are visiting multiple national parks on 1 trip, or within 1 year, this is a great value! Just make sure the park you are visiting charges admission, as some are free.
Got Bugs?
Ben’s Spray Pump Insect Repellent – 30 Percent DEET – 1.25 fl. oz 1.25 Oz
This is our favorite bug spray to use while hiking. It protects against multiple insects and is fragrance-free. Performs well even when surrounded by a cloud of mosquitoes or black flies – we know from experience on both!
Ben’s InvisiNet Insect Head Net
Got bugs that won’t stay out of your face? This head net is a lifesaver! It has saved us from misery at least 4-5 times during our travels so far. You can even wear it with or without a hat. Just don’t let the bugs in. One improvement could be a zipper for easy snacking and water!
Backpacks and Hydration
TETON Sports 18L, 22L Oasis Hydration Backpacks
This is the second backpack I’ve had from TETON Sports. My old one lasted about 6 years. This one has hydration ports, adjustable straps, and cushioning for your back. The built-in rain cover is super helpful for those popup showers!
Source WXP 3L Storm Valve Foliage Hydration Reservoir System
BLECH!! Plastic water! Have you ever experienced a taste like that from your water bladder? I bet you have. Guess what, this one has minimal to no plastic taste even from its first use. Go buy it, NOW!
Source Tactical Helix High-Flow Bite Valve
The Source water bladder above comes with a different valve, the “Storm” valve. Do yourself a favor and get this one – it’s much better. The “Storm” valve has locked up on me to the point it doesn’t work – not good when you’re hiking. This one is perfect!
Reef-Safe Sunscreen
COOLA Organic Mineral Sunscreen Sunblock Body Lotion – SPF 30
If you are looking for some great SPF 30 sunscreen that is reef-safe and dries with a sheer matte finish, don’t pass this up! This may be more pricey than other sunscreens, but we must save our ocean ecosystems.
Kokua Sun Care: SPF 50, Hawaiian Reef Safe Non-Nano Zinc Oxide Sunscreen
This is another great reef-safe sunscreen to help protect our oceans. This one is SPF 50 for those needing that extra protection. Hawaii approved and smells great, too!
Footwear
adidas Men’s Terrex Free Hiker 2.0 Sneaker – Men’s
Hands down, these are the best. 5 stars in my book. Super comfy, water-resistant. Foot pain and knee pain: nonexistent while hiking! My old pair survived Hawaii, Florida, West Virginia, Newfoundland, Texas, New Mexico, Nevada, and the list goes on. What more could you ask for?
adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2 Low Gore-TEX® – Women’s
Just like the version above, these are for the women in your family and are a low-top shoe. Same comfort, same quality!
Yaktrax Pro Traction Cleats
Did you read our post about trying to hike on the South Kaibab Trail at Grand Canyon National Park? Well, it was a sheet of ice, and we needed these, but failed to bring them. Don’t be like us.
Accessories
Cell Phone Lanyard Crossbody with Adjustable Neck Strap and Phone Ring Grip
You wouldn’t want to lose your phone while completing the New River Gorge Bridge Walk. Get this phone holder to make sure you leave with the amazing photos you take! It also stores credit cards and cash.
Stasher Platinum Silicone Food Grade Reusable Storage Bag-Sandwich
Go green and reduce your single-use plastic use with these awesome reusable sandwich bags. They are perfect for PB&J and are also dishwasher and microwave-safe!
Stasher Platinum Silicone Food Grade Reusable Storage Bag-Snack
The same thing as above, but for your delicious trail snacks! Get the sandwich/snack combo here.