hiker on a peak

Pack For Adventure | 8 Things To Take On Your Hiking Trip

on . Posted in Blog, Hiking

A hiking trip can involve incredible adventure.

Beautiful sights, the thrill of conquering a peak, or traversing bottomland are just a few of the many escapades that await.

But, while imagining your final destination can captivate the imagination… you first need to prepare for the trip!

hiking family

And while you want to be sure you have everything you need, you also don’t want to take so much that you feel like your backpack is fighting you every step of the way!

So, whether you’re taking an ambitious hike or a more leisurely stroll, let’s cover 8 things to take on your hiking adventure!

First, Assess The Trip

The first thing that needs to be assessed when deciding what to take hiking is the level of the hike’s toughness as well as its duration.

For example, a 10-mile walk may sound like a fun adventure, but if you usually take short, relaxed strolls, it’s advisable to take an easy trail.

Also, don’t forget to pay attention to the climate and the weather conditions of your target hiking destination. Will you be walking through a hot, barren wasteland, or a shady area such as a forest?

hiking plan

The choice of what backpack to take is also important insofar as comfort is concerned because it affects how the body load is distributed and how it causes tension.

The other aspect of preparation is goals and objectives, which should be achievable. Though you may envision climbing high mountains, starting with some easier mountains is wise for gaining experience and confidence.

Essential Items for Every Hike

1. Navigational Items

Navigational items should be staples you take with you hiking, even if you are traversing a familiar area.

compass and map

Now, before you downplay the use of paper maps, keep in mind that a smartphone with GPS is certainly handy, but also unreliable, particularly in places with poor network or low battery charge. Therefore, a paper map and a simple compass should always be carried along in your pack.

On the other hand, if you take a GPS device with you, be sure to familiarize yourself with it’s usage, as it could certainly come in handy if you are to get lost or if you find yourself in a survival situation.

2. Mini Whiteboard

A mini whiteboard may not be an object that people think of when they make a list of what to take hiking, but it can actually come in very handy. For one, it can also be used to leave messages in an emergency. It can also be beneficial when one of the members in the hiking group has a weak voice or is unable to speak loudly enough due to weather conditions.

Miniature white boards can also have a more functional purposes, such as mapping or writing directions about the trail, or to making a list of things to do.

Some hikers like to take notes, and while some hikers bring along a journal, others prefer a mini whiteboard because it’s portable, reusable, and easily accessible. It’s a smart accessory for any hiker to be well-organized and safe on the trail.



3. Hiking Sticks

Hiking sticks (also known as trekking poles) can be helpful, especially when the ground is hard, steep, wet, and muddy.

They relieve pressure on your knees, increase your steadiness, and enable you to regulate your speed, which is especially important when going downhill.

hikers with poles

4. Clothing and Footwear

It’s essential to wear appropriate clothing for the climate and the ground conditions. Earing multiple layers of clothing can help you regulate body temperature as needed. In the same way, moisture-wicking fabrics help keep sweat and moisture away from the skin, making it easier to evaporate.

When going for a hike during the day, long sleeved, light colored clothes can help with sun protection and anti-mosquito clothing helps keep those pesky bugs at bay.


Generic MIMI FUNN Mosquito Net Suit Ideal for Fishing, Hiking, Camping, Farming and Gardening (Beige), Large size
$19.99
Buy Now
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
04/23/2025 02:19 pm GMT

hiking boots on feet

Be sure you wear them beforehand to break them in, to prevent painful blisters while on the trail.



5. Sun Protection

hiking sun

You need to be sure to take a sunblock with a high SPF number, SPF lip balm, and UV-blocking sunglasses in your checklist. A hat or cap with a wide brim also protects the face and the back of the neck from the sun. Be sure to reapply sunscreen frequently if you are sweating or in wet conditions.

6. Headlamp

If you’re planning a day hike, you might not think of taking a headlamp. However, it’s small, compact, and could be the only apparatus that helps you get home in one piece.

It’s good to be aware that in forests and valleys, it can get darker sooner than in open areas. Also, if a you end up staying on the trail too late, hiking out becomes much more dangerous, as you may not be able to adequately see the trail or obstacles on the way.

So, a good waterproof headlamp allows the hands to remain free and yet keep the trail adequately illuminated. It’s also advisable to carry spare batteries before you embark on the trip.



7. First Aid Kit

A small first aid kit should be part of every hiker’s gear. It should at least contain adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, blister treatments, gauze, and tweezers.

There may be other items you will want to add, like medications, allergic reaction treatments, or insect sting kits.

8. Food

Were you wondering if we were ever going to get to food?

Depending on the length and difficulty of your hike, you will need the appropriate amount of calories. In general, good hiking foods will be shelf-stable, lightweight and be packed with nutrients.

And remember, convenience is key. So, be sure to pack nutritious and convenient food that is either ready-to-eat or quick to prepare.

It’s also helpful to take foods that require minimal to no cooking.



Now, Go Get On The Trail!

The secret to a successful hiking trip is to be well equipped, but not too encumbered with gear and equipment. The eight items we have covered are the basics to ensure that you have a safe and fun experience.

Here’s to fun and safe adventures!

Backpack Hunting And Hiking Gamechanger | [The What, Why and How of MOLLE Webbing]

Perhaps you’ve hear the term “MOLLE webbing” and wondered, “what in the world is that?”

What does MOLLE stand for?

Before we look at what MOLLE webbing actually is, let’s first cover what the acronym itself stands for.

MOLLE stands for (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment).

Kifaru Shape Charge inner MOLLE webbing

The MOLLE webbing system allows users to attach compatible pouches, holsters, and other accessories in a secure and customizable way.

For the backpack hunter, MOLLE webbing offers a significant advantage over regular packs by enabling the hunter to organize and carry essential gear such as ammo, rangefinders, knives, and first-aid kits without cluttering the pack’s main compartments. The webbing enhances both accessibility and weight distribution of the pack, making long treks through rough terrain more manageable for the user.

The Origins of MOLLE Webbing

The MOLLE system was developed by the United States military in the late 1990s as an upgrade to the older ALICE (All-Purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment) and ILBE (Improved Load Bearing Equipment) systems.

Kifru Shape Charge Backpack with lock on and steps

Designed to improve modularity and adaptability in the field, MOLLE was officially introduced in 1997 and it rapidly became the standard for military load-carrying gear.



How MOLLE Webbing Works

MOLLE webbing functions by way of a simple, yet effective, interwoven strap system. When attaching pouches or accessories, the user threads straps through both the MOLLE webbing on the backpack and the attachment points on the accessory itself. This weaving pattern ensures that gear remains secure, preventing excessive movement or detachment during strenuous activity.

Kifaru Shape Charge MOLLE webbing on waist straps


Why MOLLE Webbing Is Useful for Backpack Hunters

For backpack hunters specifically, weight distribution and gear accessibility are critical.

MOLLE webbing provides the ability for the user to carry extra gear externally, keeping essential items within reach without overloading the interior of the backpack.

Some key benefits of MOLLE webbing include:

  • Customization: Hunters can attach only the gear they need for a specific hunt, reducing unnecessary weight.
  • Efficiency: Quick access to essential items like a knife, GPS, or survival/first-aid kit without digging through the main compartment.
  • Durability: Made from heavy-duty materials, MOLLE webbing is built to withstand harsh environments and tough conditions.
  • Versatility: Can be used to carry everything from extra ammunition to survival gear, making it adaptable for various hunting scenarios.

#ad



The MOLLE Revolution

MOLLE webbing has changed the game for how hunters, military personnel, and outdoor enthusiasts carry their gear.

Originally developed for the military, MOLLE webbing has reach the masses, largely by way of the outdoor industry and has since become a staple in outdoor and tactical gear, offering superior customization, organization, and durability.

For backpack hunters, integrating MOLLE-compatible equipment into their setup can mean the difference between a well-prepared, efficient hunt and a frustrating, disorganized experience in the field. MOLLE webbing provides a way to secure all types of outdoor gear such as pouches, portable stoves, first aid kits, and more.

So, whether you’re heading into the backcountry for days on a hunt or a hike, or just needing quick access to essential gear and accessories, MOLLE webbing is a game-changer for sure.

 

Kifaru Shape Charge Backpack Review

Is This Backpack Worth It? | Kifaru Shape Charge Review

Is the Kifaru Shape Charge backpack worth all the hype (and the price)?

It certainly carries a hefty price tag, that’s for sure. But, you know the saying, “you get what you pay for.” Well, we wanted to find out if it was indeed worth the cost of admission… so let’s dive right in to what we learned!

 Kifaru Shape Charge Backpack Up Close

kifaru shape charge unboxing

Many backpack hunters will ask right away, “so how much does it weigh? Well, the Shape Charge weighs right at 4 pounds. Obviously, it packs up pretty tightly, but we wanted to take a closer look and see what it looks like inside and what kind of advantages it has for the backpack hunter, saddle hunter, or anyone that needs to carry their gear into the woods or mountains with them.

The Outside Of The Pack

Kifaru Shape Charge Backpack so well made
Kifaru Shape Charge Handle stitching

One thing we appreciate in hunting equipment, whether it be a deer stand, or archery equipment, or a backpack, is just the attention to detail. And we could tell right off the bat that not only has Kifaru put a lot of thought and effort into creating this backpack, but they’ve used high quality components and materials. Everything from the stitching on the MOLLE webbing to the material that they make the handles out of — everything is very high quality.


Shirts For The Bowhunter!


Kifaru Shape Charge Zipper holders
handles on Kifaru Shape Charge


Kifaru Shape Charge MOLLE webbing on waist straps
Kifaru shape charge insert
Kifaru shape charge top pocket with key hook


Kifaru stretch tweave pockets
KIfaru shape charge zippers of main pouch

Kifaru Shape Charge MOLLE webbing stitching
Kifaru Shape Charge outer drink pockets

#ad


Kifaru Shape Charge padded vented back

Inside The Pack

The Shape Charge is a 2,050 cubic inch pack.

Inside of Kifaru Shape Charge pack
Kifaru Shape Charge inner MOLLE webbing

Tired of boring arrow shafts? Check out ALL the N-Tune Arrow Wraps!


Kifaru Shape Charge Size Chart

Kifaru Shape Charge backpack with or without waist belt

Kifarua Shape Chart Sizing Chart

Experimenting With The Shape Charge

Now, I know we’ve got a lot of you saddle hunters out there, and this pack is used by a lot of saddle hunters. However, there are those who only hunt with climbing stands or use lock-ons/hang-on stands. So, we wanted to do is I wanted to see if this pack could handle a heavier setup.

Kifru Shape Charge Backpack with lock on and steps

After walking out in the woods for a little while with the Shape Charge backpack on with a lock-on stand and some steps (around 30 pounds total), we learned some things. The shaped molded insert in the back of the Shape Charge really does keep the weight off of your lower back and it keeps the pack from sliding down. That is definitely a plus.

This would make the Shape Charge very beneficial, even in the pre-season, for those hanging lock-ons, as it would give them the ability to strap on the stand and the steps and have both hands free.


#ad


Final Thoughts On Kifaru Shape Charge Backpack

We absolutely love this backpack for hunting. You could tell that the folks at Kifaru put a lot of time and effort into thinking through not only what the hunter needs in the field, but also the overall quality, from the stitching, to the components and materials. Everything is crafted in a top-notch manner.

We are confident saddle hunters will appreciate this pack, but, if you’re someone who hangs stands before the season, it’s a great way to not only strap on your lock-on and your steps, but also have your hands free. And, we know from testing it that it can handle the weight of that and still stay off of your back, due to the molded insert inside of the backpack.

Happy and safe hunting!