Hiking Guide: What You Need to Know Before You Go

What to Pack

Back-Up Plan
The women-specific Gregory Maya 22 daypack with a waistband strap and five pockets is spacious enough to contain all your carry-ons, including an extra hydration reservoir. ($119, gregorypacks.com)

Now See Here
You won't get lost after sunset with the Princeton Tec Bot headlamp, which can shine a light on your path for more than nine hours. ($16, princetontec.com)

Quench It
Take your swigs from Camelbak's 0.6-liter spill-proof Eddy bottle for all-day hydration. ($14, camelbak.com)

Right This Way
When you can't rely on a wireless signal, the trusty Explorer Pro compass by Silva will accurately take you where you want to go. ($30, silvacompass.com)

Doctor on Call
The makeup case-size Adventure Medical Smart Traveler First Aid Kit has bandages, tweezers, antibiotic ointments, and more. ($40, paragonsports.com)

Take Note
Keep your trail guide rain-, dirt-, and puddle-proof with a durable, clear vinyl SealLine Map Case. Drop it, step on it, get it wet and you'll still find your way. ($14 to $24, cascadedesigns.com/sealline)

Eye Spy
Take in the scenery with compact, feather­weight Bushnell Powerview 10 X 25 mm binoculars. ($27, shop­bushnell.com)

Did You Know?

Carrying a backpack weighing 10 to 20 pounds increases your calorie burn by as much as 25 percent, experts say, because your body has to work harder to lug the load. Planning to strap on more than 10 pounds? Buy a pack that comes with waist and chest straps; they help evenly distribute weight across your shoulders, back, and hips.