Packing Checklist for Hiking

Daypack – Lightweight, comfortable, and large enough for water, snacks, and extra layers.

Hiking shoes or trail runners – With good grip for slickrock, gravel, and uneven desert terrain.

Socks – Wool or moisture wicking. Bring an extra pair for longer hikes.

Hydration – Hydration bladder or water bottles with at least 2L per person (more on hot days).

Electrolytes – Tablets, powders, or sports drinks to prevent dehydration in dry climates.

Navigation – Download offline maps that will allow you to backtrack your route like on AllTrails or Gaia. Also bring a paper map and take a photo of the map at the trailhead as a backup.

Headlamp or flashlight – This one is essential for sunrise/sunset hikes and bring extra batteries.

Trekking poles – Optional, but great for steep climbs, loose rock, and knee support.

Sun protection – Sunscreen, SPF chapstick, sunglasses, and a wide brim hat.

Clothing layers – Breathable shirts, a warm layer, and a light jacket or windbreaker for cool mornings, shaded canyons, and windy ridges.

Swimsuit - Don't forget this one if you are going to a swimming hole!

Mini first aid kit – Bandages, blister care, pain relievers, allergy meds, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers for cactus needles.

Snacks & fuel – Trail mix, protein bars, fruit, jerky etc and bring more than you think you'll need.

Emergency items – Small multitool or knife, Whistle, Space blanket, Lighter or waterproof matches, Small emergency shelter (optional but good in remote areas)

Communication – Fully charged phone and a back up portable charger or power bank (I love my Anker MagGo)

Weather protection – Rain jacket or poncho during monsoon season (July–September) and consider Microspikes in winter for high elevation or icy trails.

Toilet kit – WAG bag (required in some areas), Toilet paper, Hand sanitizer and a bag for your toiler paper trash (don't leave it in the wild)

Trash bag – For microtrash and snack wrappers. Pack it in, pack it out!

Permits, passes, and ID – For trailheads, parking, and protected areas (many Arizona spots require them). Make sure to pack your national parks pass if you already have one!

Cash – Some remote areas and shuttle services don’t take digital payments.

Camera or GoPro – Optional, but as you know, Arizona views are worth documenting!!