Hiking is a year-round activity, though adequate hiking gear for different seasons is required to overcome the different weather conditions that await you. For example, winter hiking gear lists include tents crafted out of thicker, denser material to keep the cold out, which obviously isn’t nearly as necessary in the summer or even the late spring. Interested in more seasonal hiking tips? Then read on!
Hiking Gear for Seasons – How to Prepare for the Outdoors Year-Round
Adventuring outdoors is a fantastic form of physical activity with numerous mental and physical health benefits. Staying in close proximity to nature improves moods and increases longevity.
And yet, nature can often be fickle due to unpredictable weather. Even though seasonality doesn’t outright dictate the viability of hiking, unprepared nature enthusiasts may be in for a harsh reality check, especially in the fall and winter, with microbursts, lower-than-pleasant temperatures, and the occasional surprise rain shower.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of useful seasonal hiking tips to keep you on your toes no matter what the calendar says.
Fall
Fall hiking tips will primarily revolve around adequately securing your body, possessions, and/or campsite (if you’re overnighting) from moisture. For that reason, if you’re expecting downpours during your hike, insulated outerwear will protect you from getting soaking wet. Our rain camping essentials include:
- Waterproof jacket
- Waterproof pants
- Spare socks & underwear
- Quick-dry base layers (e.g. merino wool)
- Extra towels for wiping off moisture from your belongings
- Rain fly for your tent
Wind is another factor that you don’t want to ignore, especially if you plan on camping in a tent. Knowing how to set up a campsite securely is one thing, but sometimes, powerful gusts of wind simply don’t want to let up. In that case, purchasing extra guy ropes and tent pegs as a precautionary measure may pay off dividends. Additionally, a tent repair kit as a last resort is worth considering, too.
Winter
Though certainly not the most popular season for passionate hikers, winter trips certainly boast a special charm, mostly due to the significantly lower number of people you encounter on your trails. This solitude, however, comes with the challenge of harsher conditions.
As temperatures drop, preserving warmth becomes that much more important. Your must-pack winter hiking gear has to include a pair of slip-resistant and reliable hiking boots, coupled with a thick winter jacket, pants, and a cozy hat or headband to keep your head warm.
A moisture-repellant base layer is equally, if not more important, as water is much more heat-conductive than air. Staying dry is, therefore, the key to preventing your body temperature from dropping too low.
Another great tip for winter hiking: be adaptable with your layering. Yes, you want to stay warm on a winter hike – but not too warm. It’s important to have a backpack handy to temporarily store one of your mid-layers when you work up a sweat.
Spring
Spring is a fantastic time to go out for a hike as nature reawakens from its slumber and the forests fill with incredible scents. Don’t let that lull you into a false sense of security, as the variable spring weather (especially early in the season) has caught many off-guard.
Around March and early April, your spring hiking gear should offer decent protection from wind and rain. A lightweight, packable jacket or fleece can provide some much-needed warmth during brisk mornings. Additionally, hiking boots with decent traction are an absolute staple in case of rain.
As it gets warmer outside, you’ll want to adjust your layers accordingly to stay comfortable throughout the day. Opt for breathable fabrics that wick away moisture to keep you cool and dry.
Summer
And, lastly, the summer hiking essentials. Generally speaking, you will run into fewer problems with unfavorable weather, which translates to having to carry around less gear on your back. Some hikers may decide to opt for an entirely separate set of hiking gear, just for this season, as bulky layers and extra insulation no longer come into play.
Instead, lightweight, breathable clothing is paramount for staying cool in the summer heat. You’ll also want adequate protection against the UV rays, so set aside funds in your budget for a decent pair of sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat.
Also, as scorching temperatures lead to increased sweating, adequate means of hydration are another summer hiking essential to avoid heat exhaustion. It’s best to carry around an insulated bottle that won’t heat up in your pack so you may cool down as needed.
The Takeaway
The key to enjoying hiking year-round lies in thoughtful preparation. These seasonal hiking tips should cover most of what you need to know to avoid unwanted surprises and get the most out of your next daring wilderness adventure.
You may also read: Gear Up for Your Next Hiking Expedition: Best Backpacks and Accessories