Hiking Gear: What’s Worth Carrying and What’s Not?

How much hiking gear to carry sparks endless debates, but some stuff is just dead weight. After years of hiking, Explorer Kate shares the items she reckons are worth hauling along and those we should forget about.

 

When it comes to hiking and camping gear, everyone has their preferences. Some items are non-negotiable essentials, while others spark endless debate around the campfire. After years of adventures and a few thru-hikes under my belt, I’ve formed some strong opinions about what deserves space in my pack and what I’d leave behind without a second thought.

Here are my hot takes on outdoor items; from backcountry meals to hiking skirts, and everything in between.

Solar Panels

Solar panels are often touted as a must-have for long adventures. They sound great in theory; harnessing the power of the sun to keep devices charged, but the reality is often far less practical. The weight and bulk simply aren’t worth it for shorter trips, especially when factoring in the unpredictable nature of weather and shade.

Instead, I carry a rechargeable power bank. A 10,00mAh power bank weighs around 150g to 200g, can charge a smartphone about 3 times, and lasts me about 1 week on trail. It’s reliable, and easily charged on resupply days.

Verdict: Unless you’re deep in the backcountry for weeks, leave the solar panel at home.

Pillows

For years, I was convinced camping pillows were a scam. I just used a dry sack stuffed with clothing instead. It seemed efficient and worked well enough… or so I thought. 

Then I tried a proper camping pillow and realised just how terrible my sleep had been. I use the Sea to Summit Areos Premium, and I can assure you, the extra 79g is worth it. 

Verdict: Bring the pillow, it’s a game-changer.

Hiking Chair vs. Sit Mat

A hiking chair might seem like the ultimate trail luxury, but hear me out: you can’t beat a good rock and a sit mat. Sit mats are versatile. Not only do they provide padding when sitting on rough terrain, but they can double as insulation under a sleeping mat on cold nights, and even serve as a splint in an emergency.

Hiking chairs, on the other hand, are bulky and single-purpose. While they might add a touch of comfort, they simply don’t justify the weight or space in my pack. Plus, we’re outdoors for a reason, aren’t we? To sit in nature and feel the grass under our feet and the rocks behind our backs is what it’s all about.

Verdict: Bring a sit mat, forget the chair.

Outdoor Meals: To Cook or Not to Cook?

Dehydrated meals might be convenient, but I’ve yet to find one that I truly love — or one that doesn’t wreak havoc on my stomach. Instead, I bought a dehydrator and started making my own meals.

Read more: How to Dehydrate Food (for Hiking and Camping)

It’s easier than you think, and recipes can be customised to suit your tastes. From hearty stews to flavourful pasta dishes, the possibilities are endless. Not only will your digestive system be thankful, but it’s a great money saver in the long run.

Verdict: DIY meals with a dehydrator beat store-bought meals.

Portable Electric Inflators

Portable electric inflators for sleeping mats might seem like a neat gadget, but are they necessary? In my opinion, it’s just another thing to drain my power bank.

Most inflatable sleeping mats these days come with an inflation stuff sack that connects to the valve.  It means you no longer need to blow air directly into the valve using your mouth – dramatically reducing the amount of moisture that enters the inside of the mat (and extending its lifespan).

Inflating a mat using an airbag might take a few extra minutes compared to an electric inflator, but it’s a small trade-off for saving weight and avoiding yet another piece of gear to purchase.

Verdict: Leave the electric inflators at home.

Toe Socks

Toe socks used to be the butt of my jokes. It seemed excessive and, frankly, a bit silly. But after trying them on a whim, I’m a total convert. They’ve been a game-changer for preventing blisters, especially on long hikes where my feet take a beating. 

Read more: Cheap Hiking Socks Vs Premium Hiking Socks

By separating the toes, these socks reduce friction and moisture build-up, two of the main culprits behind blisters. Now, I never hike without them. If you’re on the fence, give them a shot.

Verdict: Toe socks = a revelation (take them!).

Trail Gaiters

When I talk about trail gaiters, I’m not referring to those heavy-duty ones that feel like garbage bags around the legs. I mean the lightweight, over-the-sock gaiters that keep rocks, dirt, and debris out of shoes. They might seem like a small addition, but their impact is huge. 

Read more: 6 Reasons To Start Wearing Ankle Gaiters

By keeping your shoes free of debris, they prevent blisters and keep laces secure, so you’re not constantly stopping to re-tie them. They’re proof that the smallest pieces of gear can make the biggest difference.

Verdict: Trail gaiters may be small, but they’re mighty.

Hiking Skirt

Sometimes it feels like hiking comes with its own set of fashion rules, but embracing non-traditional hiking clothes can be liberating. Enter the hiking skirt. It’s breathable, comfortable, and helps you maintain a little bit of femininity on the trail.

Read more: Guide to the Hiking Dress (And Why I Love Mine)

The airflow is unbeatable, especially on hot days, and it’s just as functional as shorts or pants. For the fellas, hiking kilts might just be the next big trend in 2025. You might be the start of a new movement.

Verdict: If you value staying cool you need to investigate trail skirts.

Trail Runners vs. Hiking Boots

The debate between trail runners and hiking boots is as old as time. I used to swear by boots for the ankle support… until I rolled my ankle in a pair. The heaviness of boots simply isn’t worth it for long trails.

Meanwhile, trail runners are lighter, more breathable, and dry faster. They allow for greater flexibility and reduce fatigue over long distances.

Read more: Are Lightweight Hiking Shoes All They’re Cracked Up to Be?

Switching to trail runners has been one of the best decisions I’ve made for my hiking kit, and my feet have never been happier.

Verdict: Trail runners for the win.

@mattwisemanmedia

Pack Covers vs. Pack Liners

Pack covers might seem like a good idea, but in practice, they’re a hassle. They snag on branches, require constant adjustment, and don’t always keep gear dry. Switching to a pack liner was a game-changer for me. It’s simple, reliable, and eliminates the need to stop and cover your pack every time it drizzles.

Read more: How To Pack A Backpack Like A Boss

Pack liners also protect hiking gear from water more effectively, ensuring essentials stay dry no matter the weather. If you’re still using a cover, consider making the switch. Your future self, standing in the rain, will thank you.

Verdict: Pack liners are a way better option.

Pack Smarter, Not Harder

When it comes to outdoor hiking gear, it’s all about finding what works for you. Some items are worth their weight, while others are better left behind. Whether it’s embracing the comfort of a pillow, discovering the joy of toe socks, or ditching the hiking chair for a versatile sit mat, the key is to pack smarter, not harder. 

Take a closer look at your gear list and ask: does each item earn its place?

More Outdoor Hiking Gear Tips

• 14 Luxury Gear Items to Make Your Next Hike Less of a Drag
• Gear Our Readers Can’t Go Without
• It’s Time To Spring Clean Your Outdoor Gear – Here’s How
• Staff Favourites – Gear That’s Gone The Distance