Field Notes | What I Pack On A Hike

Field Notes is Naturalist’s Guide blog written and edited by publisher and producer Ashley Deese. Naturalist’s Guide is supported through advertising products, events, and resources from our trusted partner organizations. Every product featured is vetted, tested, and approved by the Naturalist’s Guide team.

As the producer behind Naturalist’s Guide, I try to spend a lot of time each week outdoors connecting with nature. So it makes sense that I have to do a bit of hiking either for gathering and researching content in the field, birdwatching, or exercise. 

My hiking style is very much a mix of camp comfort and quiet luxury. I prefer high-quality pieces that will last for years but can be repaired if damaged. This results in a smaller, curated hiking wardrobe.

I like to keep my tech and other gear minimal and multifunctional so that I can keep my pack light.

Here is what I typically pack for an afternoon hike.

Daypack

I’ve purchased several North Face backpacks and the Basin 24-liter is my absolute favorite for day hikes. I’m a petite woman and this bag can fit everything I need to carry comfortably on my back. It has a dedicated water bladder pocket and a removable rain cover making it functional for various hikes. It lacks any accessible pockets on the straps but otherwise, this bag is the best hiking daypack for women.

Hydration

For long hikes, I pack a 2-liter Platypus water bladder that fits into The North Face’s Basin bladder pocket perfectly. For quick afternoon hikes, I pack a Hydro Flask water bottle. They’re available in a variety of sizes and colors. I prefer the Hydro Flask brand for its functional and streamlined designs that work with backcountry water filters while also fitting easily into cup holders. 

Sun Protection

I always wear a hat for extra protection against the sun and insects. Bird Collective, Keep Nature Wild, and Naturalist’s Guide hats have simple nature-inspired designs in a variety of colors and fabrics. My current go-to is our Naturalist’s Guide Hummingbird hat from our merch shop. I also wear sunscreen and sunglasses for extra protection.

Clothing

The Lululemon Align collection has the best tops and leggings that are weightless and sweat-wicking. The Align tanks have built-in bras and the Align leggings have a practical pocket. I prefer hiking in leggings because of the extra protection but Lululemon’s running shorts are another alternative. 

If there is rain in the forecast, I’ll bring along a packable The North Face Jacket.

Crew socks are the ideal socks for hiking and these from Smartwool are designed with light padding. Keep Nature Wild has hiking crew socks with fun and colorful designs. 

Shoes

Change my mind but I prefer hiking in trail running sneakers instead of hiking boots. Nike’s Gore-Tex trail shoes are flexible, waterproof, and lightweight. I like the extra agility and grip they give me while navigating all kinds of terrain. I have hiked miles throughout the Rockies, Smokies, pine-ridden forests, and sandy beaches in my Nike’s and they have continuously performed well.

Other Gear

I always carry a cotton bandana. It works for so many purposes. I’ve used them as towels, sweatbands, handkerchiefs, and a face mask. They always come in handy and are compact enough to keep at least one in my pack. 

Another useful tool I like to carry every day is my James Pike pocket knife. This monochromatic black knife is small enough to fit in the palm of my hand but opens to a very conveniently sized blade. I’ve used this knife while foraging or to cut things while camping. 

A compact tripod is necessary when traipsing through the forest gathering content or taking vacation photos. This tripod is affordable and well-made. It fits easily in my daypack and offers attachments for my phone or GoPro. 

About the Author

Ashley Deese