DAY TRIPPER
Hit the trails with confidence. Don’t let a lack of preparation ruin your outdoor experience. Follow our handy checklist, and take a look at some specific recommendations to get started on making your next hike safe and fun.
By Michael Roberts
FIRST AID, TOP PRIORITY
From bee stings to severe bleeding, the Adventure Medical Kits Day Tripper has you covered. This small, lightweight kit weighs in at just under one pound and comes stocked with everything you need for a weekend backpacking trip.
$33
KEEP SHINING
This newly redesigned Spot headlamp from Black Diamond features a 200 lumen output and light modes that can be adjusted with the tap of a finger. This little lamp is waterproof and lightweight, and hasdimming and red light options.
$39.95
FIRE OVER WATER
These resilient matches from UCO Gear will light any time, even after being fully submerged. Each kit is waterproof and floats, and contains 25 matches and three striking pads so you can be sure you’ll get a fire no matter the weather.
$7.99
CLEAN WATER, HAPPY TRAILS
These lightweight filters from Sawyer are great for dedicated trekkers and day hikers, and can be used with most any store-bought water bottle. The hollow-fiber membrane removes 99.9 percent of bacteria and protozoa from any water source, and at just 3.5 ounces, they’ll squeeze into about any pack.
$39.95
The above items courtesy of Pack Rat Outdoor Center in Fayetteville. packratoc.com
LESS IS MORE
Elegant and durable, this backpack is not only highly adjustable, it comes with all the storage space any backpacker will need to store necessary gear and more.
$180
DRY AND WARM
Keep your feet from getting wet with these highly breathable, waterproof boots from Lowa featuring GORE-TEX® lining. Perfect for water crossings!
$140
LIGHTWEIGHT BUT STURDY
These light books from Oboz will keep your feet happy and dry without weighing you down. As a bonus, the unique style of these boots means they don’t require breaking in.
$165
The above items courtesy of Ozark Outdoor Supply in Little Rock. ozarkoutdoor.com
