Fall Is The Perfect Season For Hiking, But Don't Forget These 15 Essentials

Fall is the ultimate hiking season. Cooler air, fewer insects, lighter crowds, and spectacular foliage all make it a must-do — not to mention the many physical and mental benefits of being active and in nature!

But before you step out on a day hike, you need to outfit yourself correctly and prepare for possible whammies (rain, blisters, ticks, getting lost, etc.). We've rounded up 15 items that'll help to keep you safe, comfortable, and happy on the trails.

Continue reading to learn more about hiking essentials, written by Libby Sentz.

Mwandishi wa Blogu ya Picha
Contributing Writer & Editor
Libby Sentz

Libby loves variety, and as a freelance writer/editor, she enjoys plenty. After 20 years in NYC, working for Travel & Leisure, National Geographic Adventure, Health.com and Money, among others, she was charmed home to Richmond, VA. When she's not working for Yahoo, Libby can be found writing offbeat greeting cards for Avanti, goofing around with her fam, spoiling her tuxedo cats and muppet dog and dancing on stages and in the streets.

Majina ya Vyombo vya Habari

Sawyer’s picaridin lotion lasts a long time, stores well in survival kits and cars, and doesn’t have the laundry-list poison control label like DEET sprays.

Sean Gold
Founder & Lead Writer

Majina ya Vyombo vya Habari

Secure a small loop of cord to a trekking pole to create a convenient place to hang a water bladder and filter water.

Nathan Pipenberg
Mwandishi

Majina ya Vyombo vya Habari

It contains 20 percent picaridin, a powerful insect repellent that will make nights around the campfire much more enjoyable.

Liz Provencher
Freelane Writer