Here’s my kit list for a day hike or an ultra-marathon event. [The links are Amazon affiliate links, which means that I receive a tiny percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you, which helps support the site. Thank you!]
I wear walking trousers (as they dry quickly if it rains). I like Craghoppers and The North Face and I often start out with a fleece jumper, but that often comes off quite quickly as I warm up.
Backpack — mine is an Osprey Sirrus 26. I like having a built-in rain cover.
Walking shoes or boots. This will depend on the terrain, the weather, and what you like to walk in. I mostly walk in shoes rather than boots because the terrain is not so rocky. I have both Merrell and Meindl and alternate.
Walking poles — if it’s a long day (over 20km) or if it’s rocky/muddy/wet terrain. Mine are Leki. I also wear gloves for longer walks to stop my hands from getting blistered. I have small cycling gloves for hot days and waterproof gloves for wet days.
Waterproof jacket — also good for cold and wind
Waterproof trousers — I really only wear these if it’s bucketing down! But they can also keep you warm in cold wind.
Hat – sun hat for hot weather, warm hat/beanie for the cold
Sunglasses
Extra socks — if the walk is over 20km, or if it’s particularly hot. If walking an ultra marathon, change your socks at every rest stop.
First Aid Kit — including painkillers, antihistamine tablets for allergies/bites/stings, rehydration salts if it’s hot. You can buy ready-made packs like Lifesystems.
Plenty of blister plasters — Compeed or similar
Emergency blanket. Whistle.
Head torch — if it’s a long day and you might end up walking in the dark. Plus, spare batteries.
Water bottle + enough water for the day. You might need multiple bottles or you can also use a bladder if you prefer. I also take a flask with coffee.
Food if you need to carry your own. I normally have at least a packet of nuts, just in case, but if you’re doing an organized event, that is all included.
Mobile phone + spare battery pack + charging cable
Map and compass if you’re navigating. Not usually necessary at an organized event.
In pandemic times: Mask/face covering + hand sanitizer.
