🌄 Summer Trail Essentials: What’s In My Pack This Season

There’s nothing quite like a summer hike—long daylight hours, wildflower-lined trails, and that warm breeze that makes you want to stay outside forever. But with all that sunshine (and sweat), summer hikes also call for a little extra prep. Whether I’m heading out for a solo sunrise hike or guiding a group up into alpine terrain, here’s a peek at what’s in my backpack this season to stay fueled, comfortable, and trail-ready.

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🥾 Trail Snacks That Keep Me Going

Let’s be real—snacks are the real MVP of any hike. Summer’s heat and elevation gain demand fuel that’s portable, energy-packed, and actually tasty. Here’s what I’m snacking on this season:

• Trail Mix – My go-to lately is Trader Joe’s Happy Trekking Mix (fitting name, right?). It’s a sweet-and-salty dream: almonds, cashews, pistachios, dried cherries and cranberries, plus a handful of dark chocolate chips. Perfect for sustained energy and snack joy.

• Protein Bars – I never hit the trail without one or two clean, melt-proof bars in my pack. Lately I’ve been loving GoMacro’s Prolonged Power bars—made with almond butter and bananas. Simple ingredients, steady energy, and so delicious.

• Jerky Sticks – These are a must for protein on the go, especially to balance out all the carbs. Chomps Grass-Fed Jerky Sticks are my favorite—10g of protein, no added sugar, and super easy to stash in any pocket.

• Dried Fruit – For a quick hit of natural sugar and sunshine flavor, I always pack RIND Snacks. Pineapple and kiwi are my personal faves—and yes, you can eat the rinds! Great for trail energy and digestive fiber, too.

• Energy Chews – When I need that mid-hike pick-me-up, I reach for Skratch Labs Energy Chews. They’re portable, tasty, and some flavors even pack a little caffeine boost—which comes in very handy on steep climbs.

And of course: water, water, water. I carry a full hydration bladder (and sometimes even a backup water bottle with electrolytes)—hydration is non-negotiable, especially in the summer heat.

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🧥 Layers That Work With the Weather

Summer weather is anything but predictable—sun, rain, wind, sweat, repeat—so I’m always layering smart. In my pack this season:

• Sun-Shirt – I’m all about that breathable, long-sleeved coverage with built-in SPF—because who wants to reapply sunscreen every hour on the trail? Lately, I’ve been living in the REI Sahara Long-Sleeve. It’s super lightweight, durable, and keeps me cool while staying protected. Obsessed is an understatement.

• Light Rain Jacket – Summer storms don’t play, especially in the mountains. I always pack a light, breathable layer that won’t take up much room. My go-to is the Cotopaxi Teca Windbreaker—super packable, great in wind and light rain, and cute enough to throw on in town after the hike.

• Extra Socks – Wet feet = guaranteed bad vibes. I never hike without a backup pair of dry socks. Bombas Hiking Socks are my top pick—cushy, breathable, and they've saved me from more than a few potential blisters.

• Warm Layer – Even summer hikes can turn chilly fast, especially at elevation or after sunset. I rotate between two favs: the Patagonia Quarter Zip Fleece for cool mornings or shaded trails, and the Nano Puff Jacket when I need serious warmth without the bulk.

• Bandana – The unsung hero of trail gear. I use my Nomadix Bandana for everything: a sweat band, neck cooler, face cover, snack napkin, makeshift towel—you name it. Lightweight, multipurpose, and always worth packing.

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🧰 Safety + Essentials

Because being prepared is just as important as being spontaneous:

• First Aid Kit – I always bring my Mountain Series Medical Kit—compact but packed with the essentials: blister care, antihistamines, tape, and a few must-have meds. It’s one of those things you hope you won’t need… but always feel better having.

• Map or GPS – Even on well-marked trails, navigation is non-negotiable. I always carry a physical map and use a trail app like AllTrails, downloaded for offline access (because service is never guaranteed in the wild).

• Sunscreen – A sunburn is not the souvenir I’m after. I rely on Sun Bum SPF 30—easy to reapply, gentle on skin, and it holds up even when I’m sweaty and on the move.

• Bug Spray – Alpine hikes are gorgeous… and full of mosquitos. My go-to for keeping the bugs away? Ben’s Insect Repellent Wipes. Lightweight, leak-free, and super easy to toss in a hip belt pocket for quick use.

• SOS Device – For longer or more remote hikes, I always bring my Garmin inReach Mini. It’s a compact satellite communicator that gives me (and my loved ones) serious peace of mind—because safety > everything.

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🎒 Final Thoughts

For me, packing well isn’t about looking the part—it’s about feeling ready, grounded, and free to fully enjoy the trail without the stress of “what if I forgot...?” The right snacks, layers, and safety gear can turn a challenging day into an empowering one—and that’s the energy I’m carrying into every hike this season. Whether you’re summiting peaks or strolling local trails, preparation = freedom.

Happy trails, my friend—and don’t forget to drink your water. ☀️💛