12 International Hiking Gear Essentials From $16

Growing up in New Hampshire, I’m lucky that I’ve been hiking for the better part of my life. But while I’m accustomed to taking on the trails of the White Mountains, I have a new challenge ahead of me as next month I’m traveling to Norway to explore another corner of the world — and bag some peaks along the way. While the trip is still weeks away, I’ve already begun to prepare my trail packing list to get a jump on my preparations, and since I’m flying across the ocean to get to the trailhead, my must-haves are significantly pared down.

From my favorite Patagonia pull-over to a surprisingly spacious sling bag from The North Face, I’ve compiled a list of the 12 essentials I’ll be taking with me for my international hiking trip to remain comfortable and well-prepared. While some items may be a splurge, prices start at just $16 for these outdoor necessities.

Teva Grandview Gore-tex Hiking Boots

It stands to reason that if I’m going to be hiking in Norway, I’ll need to pack the right shoes for the job, and I can’t think of any better option than these unbelievably comfy boots from Teva. The best-seller seamlessly marries support and style into one packable shoe with waterproof leather exteriors accentuated by breathable mesh panels. Their spacious toe boxes never leave my feet feeling cramped, and ultra-grippy outsoles will keep me safe and secure regardless of the terrain I encounter during my Norwegian excursion. Whether we’re met with a surprise September snow, a pop-up rain shower, or blue skies, these shoes are the perfect companions.

Vuori Villa Wideleg Pants

Lightweight, breathable pants are at the top of my packing list for early fall hikes, and this breezy, elastic-waisted pair from Vuori earned an instant spot in my suitcase since I can layer them over shorts or wear them on their own in accordance with whatever temperature we encounter on the trails. The wide waistband doesn’t dig into my skin so I can focus on the hike ahead, and the breezy cut is undeniably flattering. I would be lying if I said it wasn’t a priority to look cute while hiking, and these pants help me do just that without sacrificing functionality. Best of all, they have pockets.

Atumtek Bluetooth Selfie Stick Tripod

My family loves a good photoshoot, but when we’re on the trails it’s markedly more difficult to set up the camera and get the perfect shot. So, we’ve found that selfie sticks (while perhaps considered antiquated by some) are one of the handiest accessories to pack. With it, we can capture our favorite memories without needing to bother other hikers on the trail. This particular set can be used as both a selfie stick and a tripod, and it comes with a wireless remote that subtly captures photos with the press of a button. Our impending holiday card is in need of a family photo, and this compact device will surely help us get the shot.

Zomake Lightweight Packable Backpack

I swear by traveling with a backpack as my personal item, but since I’m going on a hiking vacation, I want to have a separate bag ready to bring with me on the trails. My favorite solution? A foldable backpack that packs down into its own compact carrying pouch. While my go-to packable backpack from Away is no longer available on the site, this similar option from Zomake is currently on sale at Amazon for $20 and has many of the same features with a lower price tag. It features a multitude of convenient pockets that will stow snacks and other hiking essentials, and it’s even designed with a water-resistant fabric that wicks away sweat as well. 

Supergoop! Glow Screen

Just because I’m traveling doesn’t mean I’ll allow my skincare to fall to the wayside, and if there’s one product I’m adding to my toiletry kit, it’s Supergoop’s Glow Screen. The lightweight, vegan formula offers SPF 40 protection which is essential for long days in the sun, but I especially love how it leaves my skin with a glowy sheen that has effectively replaced all my face makeup during the summer. It reapplies smoothly, is the perfect size to travel with internationally, and is ideal for my dry skin that’s often zapped of its hydration while I’m on the go. 

Patagonia Better Sweater Quarter-zip Fleece Pullover

Layers are the key to remaining comfortable while hiking, and for years now, my trusty Patagonia quarter-zip has been my go-to. The fleecy interior is so cozy and gentle against my skin, making it a welcome addition to my pack. A built-in phone pocket on the arm keeps my devices easily accessible for photos along the way, and the fit is flattering and relaxed. This top has never let me down before, and it only makes sense that it’s my first choice when packing for this upcoming trip — especially considering it’s a top-rated product at REI, as well.

90 Degree By Reflex Power Flex Raceback Tank Top

On the theme of layering, I always like to build my hiking outfits from a base of shorts and a tank top — no matter the time of year. I’ve had this form-fitting racerback tank for years now, and it’s my favorite to pack for active vacations since it’s comfy, flattering, and doesn’t roll up underneath other shirts. The sweat-resistant fabric keeps my body temperature regulated even when I’m working up a sweat, and I can confirm it’s made with the utmost quality as it’s been in my closet for nearly a decade. To top it all off, a two-pack of these tanks is just $23 at Amazon.

Aritzia Golden Butter New Cheeky Hi-rise 5-inch Shorts

If I could only pack one pair of shorts to hike in during this trip, there’s not a doubt in my mind that my first choice is these high-rise biker shorts from Aritzia. Wearing fabrics that don’t display sweat stains is a priority for me, and after much trial and error I’ve found that the brand’s Golden line is the best for the job — plus, they’re ideal for layering beneath sweatpants or hiking pants without feeling bulky. These shorts sit right around my belly button, and the wide waistband has never once dug into my skin. They’re even so lightweight that they feel like nothing more than a second layer of skin.

The North Face Borealis Sling Bag

Being the overpacker that I am, I love having options when I arrive at my destination. This philosophy covers everything from footwear to clothing, and in this case, it also includes hiking bags. If I’m not in the mood to wear a backpack during my time on the trails, this surprisingly spacious sling bag from The North Face is my other favorite selection since it’s comfortable, adjustable, and yes, stylish. The roomy main compartment easily holds a water bottle, snacks, and even some spare layers. The exterior features a water-repellent finish that’s vital when you’re spending time outside. Why should I be weighed down by a heavy bag when I can instead opt for this travel-friendly pouch that will carry me from the trails to the airport with ease?

Altra Outroad 2 Trail-running Shoes

Sure, hiking boots are already taking up valuable real estate in my suitcase, but these Altra trail running shoes have also made the cut. On this trip, I’ll use them for shorter hikes and runs while I’m in Norway. Since they’re much lighter than a hiking boot, they leave me feeling more nimble on my feet, and I may opt for them if we’re hitting the trails on a day when the temperature doesn’t lend itself to wearing heavy boots. These trusty shoes have carried me across a wide range of terrain since they landed in my collection more than a year ago, and it’s the wide toe boxes and sturdy outsoles that elevate them above the rest of my footwear. 

Anker Portable Charger

Since I’ll be hiking in a foreign country, it’s especially important that I have access to my phone at all times for navigation purposes and in case of an emergency. The Anker portable charger is slim enough to slot into any pocket of my hiking sling bag with room to spare for my other must-haves. It holds nearly three full charges worth of battery life, so I never have to worry about falling off the grid. It also has rapid charging capabilities, so even if my phone battery does dip, it won’t take long to get it back to 100 percent. I’m sure it will be an asset for the rest of my trip, as well — especially with the amount of pictures I’m expecting to snap along the way.

Protect Life First Aid Kit

Due to the isolated nature of the activity, it’s always better to err on the side of caution while hiking. With that in mind, I’ll be adding this best-selling first aid kit into my pack during every outing. While it may contain 100 pieces of essential equipment, it’s compact enough to take up minimal space in my bag. From bandages to antiseptic, this unassuming pouch contains everything I might need to tend to potential minor injuries until we’re able to get help, and right now it’s even on sale for just $16 at Amazon.

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