Read this list before you hit the trail.

With the first official spring day three weeks away, you're probably eager to explore the outdoors. We can picture it perfectly—blue skies, green fields—a warm, fresh breeze. If you've already selected a trail and checked the weather as we have, way to go! We're so stoked right now we could do a summersault but we’re not letting our excitement get in the way of properly preparing for a safe journey. After all, being prepared is the best way to ensure you have the most fun on your next hike. So, to help you, we've curated a list of the fourteen must-have hiking gear essentials (because we could all use a bit of help planning a trip amidst the excitement). From canteens to sunscreen, these practical items pack right in your backpack, and more likely than not, you will probably end up using most, if not all of these on your journey!

Every Scout knows that when you plan a hike, you should gather the things you will need AND the things you might need to have the most fun outdoors. Here’s a list to help you get an idea of some essential tools and hiking gear you should pack (think Scouts Basic Essentials plus a couple of bonus items):

• Canteen
• First Aid Kit
• Pocket knife
• Compass
• Extra hiking socks
• Flashlight/headlamp
• Water filter
• Matches
• Insect repellent
• Sunscreen
• Toilet paper
• Raincoat
• Snacks/dehydrated foods
• Tent

Though the weather in the spring isn’t typically as hot as in the summer, it’s still super important that you drink plenty of water on your journey! This should come as no surprise but staying hydrated helps you maintain focus on the trail. For this reason, it’s best you bring a canteen along on your next adventure.

Pro tip: According to Mayoclinic.org, the daily fluid intake should be at least 3.7 liters for men and 2.7 for women. The Scouting America 1.75L Canteen holds nearly half of the daily water intake you need to stay hydrated on your next adventure!

Some common injuries you may encounter on the trail include bug bites, blisters, and scrapes from falls. To minimize the risk of infection, make sure you stock your first aid kit with bandages, antibiotic ointment, and sterilized gauze pads (among other things) to prevent infection before seeking medical attention.

Pro tip: Stock up on moleskin blister dressing for blister prevention!

Pocket knives are some of the best tools you can bring with you in the outdoors. On a day hike, a pocket knife can be used for protection. A multi-tool knife also comes in handy when you need scissors or tweezers when dealing with first aid.

Pro tip: The Swiss Army Eagle Scout Pocket Knife is equipped with up to seven functions, including a screwdriver, scissors, and tweezers!

Bringing a compass with you is essential in case you get lost. Not only does a compass help you locate your position on a map, but it can also help you take the shortest or fastest route possible, depending on how far you want to travel on your next hike. Although you may not need to use the compass to get around, especially if you’re hiking on a well-known trail, it can be a lifesaver if you happen to take a wrong turn.

If you’re hiking in the spring, there’s a good chance the weather may turn quickly on you. April showers bring May flowers, but they can also make your hike uncomfortable if you get your socks wet. Bring an extra pair or two of hiking socks to keep your feet dry and prevent injury.

When the clouds gather and a storm approaches, it can limit your visibility out in the wilderness. Pack a flashlight or keep a headlamp handy to improve visibility on the trail.

Pro tip: The Black Diamond Storm 400 Headlamp emits up to 400 lumens on max setting and it's waterproof. 

Keeping a water filter in your pack is the best way to ensure you and everyone in your group stay properly hydrated. The worst feeling is running out of water too soon on a hike, especially if you have a few miles left to go and your mouth feels dry. Pack a water filter to purify water sourced from streams and other natural bodies of water.

Pro tip: Heavier rainfall in the spring means elevated water levels in rivers and streams. Be careful when you approach these bodies of water and don’t attempt to cross them as the currents might be stronger than they look!

With wet conditions and the likelihood of afternoon showers dampening your day hike, bring a pack of waterproof matches to help you build a campfire with ease. It’s always a good idea to keep a pack of matches in your pack for a rainy day. We recommend this 25-pack of UCO Titan stormproof matches. You’ll have the longest-burning, windproof and waterproof matches to keep you warm.

Perhaps the only real downside to hiking in warmer weather is the bugs and insects. With more rain comes more puddles on the trail, and as most people know all too well—mosquitos thrive in stagnant water. To help you stay comfortable and limit the chance of insect bikes, make sure you apply insect repellent before your hike and pack it in your day pack to reapply when necessary.

Pro tip: Natrapel's Insect Repellent Pump provides you with up to 8 hours of protection from insect bites.

It’s best to hike early in the day since the sun isn’t as strong before 10 a.m. The American Hiking Society recommends that you apply sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher at least an hour before you go outdoors. For extra sun protection, you could also wear a cap or a sun hat to protect your face, neck, and ears from getting sunburnt.

When nature calls, make sure you’re well-equipped with toilet paper or wet wipes. Be sure to pack toilet paper in a Ziploc bag to ensure it stays dry.

Pro tip: Bring a small hand shovel to dig a cat hole!

Don’t let April showers take the fun out of your outdoor adventure! From lightweight, breathable rainsuits to a five-liter waterproof bag, there are many ways you can stay dry on the trail in case there’s a storm.

You’re going to burn a good number of calories walking the trail. It’s best to keep snacks in your pack for a quick pick-me-up on your day hike.

Pack a tent in your day pack in case you get lost on the trail, or you want to stay out of the rain. We recommend the Scouting America Basecamp 3 Person Tent or the Coleman Sundome 6 Person Tent if you’re hiking with a large group. The Scouting America Basecamp Tent is lightweight, stows in your pack easily, and is on sale right now for $139.99. The Coleman Sundome is a dome-shaped tent with enough room for two queen-sized air beds for the same price.

From first aid kits and stormproof matches to tents, hiking socks, and headlamps, we’ve got all the hiking gear you need! For exclusive deals and more outdoor equipment, check out ScoutShop.org!