
When it comes to hiking, the right gear can make all the difference. Here’s a list of essential hiking gear across different price points. Please note that the prices mentioned are approximate and may vary based on location, availability, and other market conditions. Also, since my training data only goes up until 2021, some newer products might not be listed. Always make sure to read reviews, ask for recommendations, and research the latest products before making a purchase.
- Backpack
- Budget: Osprey Daylite – $60
- Mid-Range: Deuter Speed Lite 20 – $105
- High-End: Osprey Talon 22 – $130
- Footwear
- Budget: Merrell Moab 2 Ventilator – $100
- Mid-Range: Salomon X Ultra 3 GTX – $150
- High-End: Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX – $170
- Clothing (Weather-appropriate)
- Trekking Poles
- Budget: Cascade Mountain Tech Aluminum Quick Lock – $30
- Mid-Range: Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork – $130
- High-End: LEKI Micro Vario Carbon – $200
- Navigation Tools
- Budget: Suunto A-10 Compass – $20
- Mid-Range: Garmin eTrex 10 GPS – $90
- High-End: Garmin GPSMAP 64sx – $300
- First Aid Kit
- Water Bottle or Hydration System
- Budget: Nalgene Wide Mouth – $12
- Mid-Range: CamelBak Crux Reservoir – $35
- High-End: Hydro Flask Wide Mouth – $45
- Water Treatment
- Budget: LifeStraw Personal Water Filter – $20
- Mid-Range: Sawyer Squeeze – $40
- High-End: Katadyn BeFree 1.0L – $45
- Emergency Shelter
- Budget: SOL Emergency Bivvy – $17
- Mid-Range: Sea to Summit Pro Bivvy – $80
- High-End: Outdoor Research Helium Bivy – $180
- Headlamp
- Budget: Black Diamond Astro – $20
- Mid-Range: Petzl Actik Core – $70
- High-End: Black Diamond Spot 350 – $40
Always remember to adapt your gear based on the specific conditions and requirements of your hike. Safety should be a top priority. Also, regularly inspect and update your gear, especially first aid supplies and perishables.