How to Pack Your Day Pack for Summer Hiking Adventures
There’s an art to packing your day pack especially for summer hikes when it’s hot, your bag needs to be light, and you still want to feel prepared for anything. Over the years, I’ve fine-tuned what works for me through sweaty summit pushes, alpine weather changes, and long trail days with zero cell service.
This is what I actually carry in my hiking pack - not a Pinterest-perfect list, but my real gear, snacks, and must-haves that get me through summer hiking season feeling safe, light, and ready for adventure.
The Pack Itself
My go-to is the Osprey Tempest 35L. It’s lightweight, has just enough structure, and fits like a dream. The mesh back panel keeps me from overheating, and the hip belt pockets are clutch for easy-access snacks and sunscreen. It’s the perfect size for longer day hikes where I’m carrying my camera, layers, and emergency gear — but not so big I overpack.
If you’re doing shorter hikes, a 20–25L pack is great. If you’re shooting content or headed into more remote terrain, I’d recommend something in the 30–35L range.
What I Always Pack for Summer Hiking
Hydration
2L water bladder (easier than bottles while moving)
Electrolyte tabs (I love Nuun)
Optional: Water filter for trail refills
Staying hydrated in summer heat is non-negotiable. I’ve definitely learned the hard way.
Layers & Clothing
Lightweight shell jacket (even in summer — alpine weather turns fast)
Sun hoodie or long-sleeve SPF layer
Packable fleece or puffy (depending on elevation + forecast)
Hat + sunglasses
Even on sunny days, wind and elevation make layers key. I always prefer to shed layers than wish I had one.
Skincare + Sun Protection
SPF 50 face sunscreen
Lip balm with SPF
Bug spray or wipes
I keep these in a small pouch so I can reapply without digging.
Snacks That Won’t Melt
Trail mix, dried fruit, protein bars (RX Bars, Clif, or homemade energy balls)
Fruit, bananas, apples, pears (things that wont mush but you should eat first!)
Electrolyte chews or gummies
Salty snacks, I love rits bits, nuts, crackers, salted chips to replenish salts
Emergency backup snack — always.
I’m a better hiker and a better human with snacks. No question.
Safety & Trail Essentials
First aid kit (small but mighty)
Headlamp (even for day hikes - you just never know)
Navigation tools: downloaded AllTrails map, offline Google Maps
Garmin InReach Mini for remote trails
Multi-tool or knife
Lighter or waterproof matches
Whistle
Emergency Blanket
I’d rather be a little overprepared than caught off guard, especially solo or on unfamiliar routes.
Camera & Content Tools
Canon R5 + 24–70mm in a padded insert
Olympus Mju Zoom (film is coming everywhere with me lately)
iPhone 15 Pro Max (she’s the queen of Reels + on-the-go shots)
Optional: lightweight tripod for solo content or golden hour shots
I pack my camera insert at the center of my bag for balance and protection. Anything I might want mid-hike — phone, film, lip balm — goes in the hip belt pockets or top brain.
Extras I Always Appreciate Having
Trekking poles (especially on steep, loose terrain)
Wet wipes or tissue
Tiny towel or bandana
Biolite portable charger
Ziplock or dry bag (for trash, wet socks, or electronics)
Final Tips for Summer Pack Life
It’s okay to overpack “just in case.” I never regret the weight more than missing that one “maybe” item.
Keep it accessible. What you reach for most (snacks, SPF, phone) should be easy to grab without unpacking everything.
Know your trail + elevation. What you need for a forested trail in Squamish is different from an exposed ridge in the Alps.
Whether I’m out for a short alpine loop or chasing wildflowers for 8 hours, this is how I build my bag. It’s changed a lot over time, and it’ll probably keep evolving, but at the end of the day: be safe, be light, and bring snacks.
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