Dreaming about getting into hiking, fresh air, and scenic views, but don’t know where to start? You have probably been trolling YouTube and Instagram for videos showcasing the latest backpacks, hiking boots, and a lot of expensive gear you’ve never heard of. Having an awesome outdoor adventure doesn’t have to break the bank. Planning your first day hike on a budget is easily within reach, with low-cost outdoor alternatives.

This post isn’t about getting you to click a lot of links or make purchases you don’t need. You likely already have some of the essentials right at home, or can pick them up at a local discount store. I will link a few recommendations that have been useful to me over the years.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this blog post is not intended to serve as expert advice. Please consult the resources listed for the most accurate information.

Disclosure: This blog post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through an affiliate link, I may make a commission at no additional cost to you.

Safety Note: The purpose of the information contained here is to inspire and give confidence for starting your outdoor journey. For anything more advanced, you will want to invest in some gear. It doesn’t have to be terribly expensive, but there are some essential items you should carry once you start longer/or more strenuous hikes. Watch for future posts in this series that will explain these resources in more detail.

If you have never or rarely been hiking before, check out my blog post for the absolute beginner:

Hiking for Beginners: Start With No Gear Or Experience

Definitions

Day Hike: A hike accomplished in one day (1-3 hours is good for your first try).

10 Essentials: Items recommended for safe hiking. Refer to this list for more advanced hikes.

Find the list here: The Ten Essentials

Leave No Trace (LNT): Principles to minimize environmental impact while enjoying the outdoors. Always remove any trash and leave nothing behind. Pack it in, pack it out.

Find out more information here: Leave No Trace (National Park Service)

Budget Hiking: What You Really Need

Deciding what to bring depends on the trail you select and the weather. Researching your plan before setting out is crucial for a great day.

• What is the weather report?
• Check the location website – are there restrooms or water stops along the trail?
• Read reviews about the trail.

The first thing I do before planning any adventure is to check the weather. I use the free version of the Weather Channel app. Look beyond just the temperature and rain forecast. Things like humidity, heat index, and wind predictions are equally important. Once you gain more experience and start hiking for longer periods, it is also a good idea to check the forecast for the hike’s specific location on the National Weather Service website.

Don’t be afraid to reschedule if conditions are less than ideal. Rain beyond drizzle, humid or windy conditions won’t make for the best experience on your first adventure. Once you gain experience, this will be less important.

Safety Note: Never hike in extreme conditions where hail, lightning, high winds, or tornadoes are predicted.

Footwear

If you work in a job that requires standing for long periods, you probably already have shoes that will work. Just don’t bring those steel-toed, heavy-work boots. A comfortable pair of athletic shoes will work for starters.

Once you graduate to more difficult trails with rocky surfaces and hills with bigger elevation changes, a good pair of hiking boots will be more important. I love my Merrell boots, but please research which types will work best for you before buying, as these can run $150.00 or more.

To get an idea, check out Merrell hiking boots here.

Clothing

Stick to dressing in weather-appropriate layers with clothes you already own, especially in cooler weather. You can always take a hoodie or jacket off if you get too hot, but you can’t put it on if you don’t bring it.

If it’s going to be hot, consider wearing shorts, just make sure to stick to the trail and avoid plants. Poison ivy is a real buzzkill.

Accessories: A hat and sunglasses are a must.

Raingear: It’s probably best to pack something light and inexpensive in case of rain. Honestly, get a cheap disposable poncho that weighs nothing and can fit in a pocket. This is a good budget hiking alternative:

I’ve even been known to bring a garbage bag. Yeah, I’m cheap, what can I say?

Can I wear Jeans? You might have heard experts in the field advise avoiding all cotton. But if all you have are jeans, don’t let that stop the fun. Just be aware that jeans can become hot and uncomfortable, and all cotton takes much longer to dry. For shorter hikes in moderate weather they work just fine.

More Advanced Hikes: For longer, more difficult treks, invest in quick-drying, moisture-wicking fabrics:

• Base Layer that is worn next to the skin
• Nylon or polyester pants, T-Shirt
• Insulation – depending on the weather, you may need a puffy jacket, lightweight fleece, warm hat/gloves
• Rainwear – waterproof jacket and rain pants
• Socks – merino wool or other quick-drying fabric

Navigation

Many beginners think all they need is a cell phone. Yes, this is an essential tool, but what if you find yourself in an area with no service? A good old-fashioned map and compass is even more important. For basic purposes, you can usually download a map from a park website or pick one up at the trailhead.

If there is a posted map at the trailhead, make sure to snap a picture of it before setting out. Even if you lose your map, can’t find one, or somehow get turned around, this will be a critical reference.

Navigation basics include:

• Fully charged cell phone
• Paper map
• Compass

This is the compass I have used for many years. You can get a cheaper model at a sporting goods store, or one that is a lot more expensive, but this model has everything I need:

Sun Company ProSight Sighting Map Compass

Water and Snacks

Water is essential on the trail. For a short hike on easy terrain, I would suggest bringing two 16-20 oz. water bottles. Instead of purchasing a more expensive bottle, a good practical choice is the 20 oz. Smart Water brand. These are much sturdier than regular commercial water bottles and can be reused many times.

You may be thinking, I’ll eat a good breakfast before starting. Yes, that’s a good idea, but you still need to bring a snack just in case. You will burn approximately 100 calories for every mile walked, or up to 150 calories on hilly terrain. Energy bars, dried fruit, and nuts are all good choices.

Sun Protection and Insect Repellant

Even on cloudy, cooler days, your skin needs protection. Wear a hat and sunglasses. The hat will help protect from the sun and also ticks. Sunscreen should have an SPF of at least 30; 50 is better.

Insect repellent is important during mosquito season. Some brands also protect against ticks. Avoid wristbands, patches, and balms; they simply do not work. Spray products with DEET are the best. Use those with a DEET concentration of 30 to 100 percent. The higher the better.

Safety Note: Never use concentrations greater than 30 percent on children under 12.

This is the brand I use: Ben’s 100% DEET

If you prefer a brand without DEET or plan on hiking with children, this may be a good alternative:

Tick and Insect Repellant with 20% Picaridin

I haven’t used this myself, but I’ve seen this type of product mentioned on various parent blogs.

Budget Hiking Backpacks

A backpack is part of the big three of hiking essentials that you will eventually want to invest in, especially if you plan on someday branching out to backpacking.

These items include:

• Backpack
• Sleep System
• Hiking Boots

But don’t panic, you don’t need these right away. For starter day hikes, there are plenty of choices.

You may already have a backpack you can use at home. If not, you could borrow one or even get one for a few dollars at a thrift shop. Even a small day pack is fine. If you will only be taking a shorter walk, a waist pack is sufficient for a couple of water bottles and a snack.

Let’s Review

I hope this post has inspired you to get out on the trails. The basics of what to bring are listed below. If you want to learn more and grow your outdoor skills, make sure to subscribe to this blog. See you next time in the woods!

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