Summer Hiking Essentials: What to Pack for Day Hikes and Overnight Camping
Lifesystems has been creating safety-first outdoor equipment for over 30 years. Whether you're heading out on a summer day hike or planning a wild camp, having the right gear ensures a safer, more enjoyable adventure – whatever the trail throws your way.
Below, you'll find our guide to the must-have summer hiking essentials, with gear recommendations for day hikes and a checklist of extras if you're staying out overnight.
Day Hike Essentials
1. Rucksack
A lightweight daypack (20–30L) is ideal for carrying the basics – water, snacks, sun protection, and a first aid kit. Our Waterproof Packable Backpack is waterproof, lightweight (150g), compact, and perfect for warm-weather walks with 22 litres of storage.
For longer hikes or if you're staying out overnight, opt for a larger rucksack (45–60L) with hip support and good ventilation. Osprey, Deuter, and Rab offer reliable options.
2. Clothing for Hot Weather
Breathable, moisture-wicking layers are key. Lightweight tops, shorts, and a waterproof layer for changeable weather are must-haves. Avoid cotton which holds moisture, takes a long time to dry, and can leave you feeling damp and uncomfortable if conditions change.
Look to brands like Montane, Berghaus, or Alpkit for summer hiking gear built for UK conditions.
3. Headgear
If you're planning on a long day in the sun, a wide-brimmed hat or cap is vital to protect you against sunburn and heatstroke. Our Lifesystems Boonie Hat is breathable, water-resistant and ideal for long days in the sun. It also features a detachable ultra-fine mesh screen that offers reliable defence against mosquitoes, midges and gnats, making it a versatile piece of kit for warm-weather hikes.
Other great options come from brands like Sealskinz, Patagonia, Buff and Fjallraven.
4. Sun Protection
At altitude or on open trails, UV exposure increases. Our range of Sun Cream is formulated specifically for high-exposure conditions, offering UVA and UVB protection, long-lasting, and water-resistant coverage.
Pair it with sunglasses from mountain-specific brands like Julbo, Bloc, or SunGod.
5. Insect Repellent
Summer = bugs and there is no getting away from it. Our range of insect repellents, from DEET-based to Saltidin, offers protection against midges, mosquitoes, and ticks. A head net is a smart addition for trips to places like the Scottish Highlands.
Click here to read our full blog on how to avoid bites this summer.
6. Water Purification
Staying hydrated is vital in hot weather. Rather than lugging litres of water, our Water Filter Purifier Bottle allows you to safely drink from streams or taps by removing bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. Just be sure you have refill options on your route otherwise you'll need to take water with you.
7. Drybag or Rucksack Liner
Your first thought when thinking about what to pack for summer hikes might not be Drybags but rain and river crossings can soak your gear fast. Our drybags keep spare clothes and electronics protected whilst doubling up as an excellent rucksack liner even when the skies open up.
8. First Aid Kit
A first aid kit is one of those items you might not think about until you need it, but even short hikes can lead to cuts, scrapes, or blisters. Being able to deal with minor injuries quickly helps prevent them becoming bigger problems later on.
Our Light & Dry Nano Kit is a great choice for weight-conscious hikers. Compact enough to fit in any daypack, yet equipped with the essentials for treating blisters, minor wounds, and general discomfort. For longer hikes or multi-day trips, the Trek First Aid Kit offers a more comprehensive option, with additional supplies while still being light and portable enough for adventure travel.
Explore the full Lifesystems First Aid range to find the right kit for your adventure.
9. Navigation Tools
Whether you're using a GPS watch or mobile app, make sure your route is loaded and your device charged. As backup, go traditional with a reliable compass and physical map especially in remote areas. Just make sure you know how to use a map and compass before heading out.
10. Powerbank
Keeping your phone charged on the trail is about more than just taking photos – it’s your lifeline for navigation, weather updates, and emergency contact. If you're relying on digital maps or need to call for help, a dead battery could leave you vulnerable.
Our Magnetic Wireless Power Bank is a compact, fast-charging solution for day hikes and overnighters. If you like to get value for money, our Rechargeable Hand Warmers double as a power bank, ideal for colder months, but just as useful year-round as a reliable backup charger.
11. Trail Snacks & Food
Pack high-energy snacks to keep your fuel levels steady. For longer walks, bring dehydrated meals or more substantial options.
Brands like Firepot, REAL Turmat, Graze, and Tribe offer trail-ready nutrition.
Extra Kit for Overnight Hiking or Wild Camping
1. Tent or Shelter
Choosing the right shelter is key to a good night’s rest in the outdoors. If you’re camping solo and looking to keep weight and pack size to a minimum, the Venture Solo Hooped Bivi is a brilliant alternative to a full tent. It’s lightweight, fully waterproof, and offers extra headroom and structure thanks to its hooped design, giving you reliable protection without the bulk.
If you're after more space, comfort or planning to share, a two-person or three-person tent might be more suitable. Look to brands like Vango, Terra Nova, or MSR for dependable lightweight tents that balance packability with durability, especially important if the weather turns.
Don’t forget to consider ventilation and inner mesh protection if you’re camping during midge season.
2. Sleeping Mat & Sleeping Bag
A good night’s sleep in the outdoors starts with proper insulation from the ground. Even in summer, temperatures can dip overnight – especially at altitude or in exposed areas – so a sleeping mat is essential to stay warm and comfortable.
Brands like Therm-a-Rest, Alpkit, and Exped offer solid options across all price points and pack weights.
Pair your mat with a summer-rated sleeping bag or liner, ideally one that’s breathable, compact, and suited to the expected overnight lows.
3. Cooking Kit
A hot meal at the end of a long day on the trail can make all the difference. To cook outdoors, you’ll need a portable stove, fuel, and a simple cookware setup. Brands like Jetboil, MSR, and Primus make lightweight stove options designed for fast, efficient outdoor cooking.
When it comes to cookware, we’ve got you covered. Our Ellipse Camping Tableware Set and Collapsible Camping Tableware are lightweight, durable, and designed to save space in your pack, ideal for minimalist setups. If you prefer something more robust for longer expeditions, consider stainless steel or titanium cookware, which offer added durability and performance at a slightly higher weight.
Don’t forget essentials like a lighter, spork, and something to wash up with – they’re easy to overlook but make camp life much smoother.
4. Head Torch
Lighting might not be top of mind on long summer days, but once the sun dips below the horizon, a head torch becomes essential – whether you're cooking dinner, pitching your shelter, or navigating to the loo in the dark.
Our range of head torches and handheld lights are built for outdoor use, with powerful beams, adjustable brightness, and long-lasting battery life. They’re ideal not just for overnight camping, but also for early-morning starts, late finishes, or unexpected delays on the trail.
Always pack a light source, even in summer. It’s one of the most overlooked but important bits of kit for staying safe outdoors.
5. Warm Evening Layers
Even in summer, it cools down quickly once the sun sets. Pack an insulated jacket or fleece, warm socks, a woolly hat, and gloves if you're venturing to higher elevations.
Look to Rab, Montane or Alpkit for warm, lightweight gear.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to summer hiking, a little preparation goes a long way. Focus on staying protected from the sun, staying hydrated, and packing versatile layers. Whether you're out for a few hours or camping under the stars, having the right kit helps you explore with confidence.
