Basic Day Hike Check list

Here is a basic check list to use while packing for your day hike.  Please keep in mind that this is just the basics, and assumes that you will be in a mild climate such as the south east where I live.  And that you have already checked the weather forecast for where you are going and have made adjustments accordingly.  Also, please remember that the weather can change quickly on top of a mountain, and the temperature will drop as you gain altitude.  Another good tip a friend taught me was to keep your check list in your pack or at home where you keep your pack.  If you needed something and didn't have it, add it to your list.  Likewise, if you have gone on more than 2 hike and not needed something on your list consider removing it.  (Be careful, this last part works more for the backpacking check list, as there are some items you always need to carry and hope to never use such as your first aid kit.)  Many of these items can also be shared with other members of a group, so one person doesn't have to carry everything.
Also, as a rule, lets avoid cotton clothing for this list.  At least for your socks, underwear, and pants.  Shirts aren't as big a deal if you don't have another option, and cotton actually works best for items like bandannas.  Otherwise, synthetic or Merino wool works best for managing moisture and regulating temperature and you will find that you are much more comfortable wearing it.
I'm also going to recommend that you pack these items in ziplock bags to help organize them and protect them from rain and water in general.  Also, always leave a trip itinerary with a friend.  Let someone know where you are going, what trails you are taking and when you intend on getting back.  I've also found that its nice to have a dry change of cloths, towel, food and water left in the car.  Its comforting knowing those items are waiting for you at the end of the trail.

Required Items

1. Day pack or fanny/lumbar pack
2. Well fitting, supportive footwear with wool or synthetic socks
3. Compressible fleece or down jacket (when appropriate for the weather)
4. Rain jacket (should be taken even if there is only a small chance for rain)
5. Wool or fleece hat/beanie, and light gloves (during colder weather)
6. Brimmed sun hat and/or bandanna (during warmer weather)
7. Insect repellent (can probably leave out during the winter)
8. Sun protection (sunglasses, sunscreen lotion, lip balm, etc.)
9. First Aid Kit (should include personal medications, mole skin, and eyeglasses and eye drops if you wear contacts)
10. Water (during hot sunny weather you will need up to 1 liter per 2 hours of hiking, or 1 16oz bottle per hour)
11. Lunch and trail snacks (easy or no prep involved, does not need to be refrigerated)
12. Extra food (think high energy and shelf stable)
13. Map
14. Compass (with the knowledge to use it, it's useless otherwise)
15. Emergency Space Blanket
16. Waterproof matches or plastic lighter, fire starter
17. Headlamp or flashlight
18. Whistle
19. Pocket knife, small multitool, or fixed blade knife
20. Toilet paper or paper towels
21. ID, money, and car key

Optional Items

1. Hiking stick or Trekking Poles
2. GPS
3. Area Guide book, possibly covering local trees or wildlife
4. Camera with extra battery and memory card (or film)
5. Cell phone (understand that most trails have no cell coverage at all, and shouldn't be relied upon)
6. Feminine products (good addition to a comprehensive first aid kit)
7. Water treatment (filter, tablets, or purifier such as a Steripen)
8. Gaiters
9. Binoculars
10. Watch
11. Duct Tape (try keeping a few feet wrapped around a trekking pole or water bottle)
12. Trowell (small shovel for digging a "cat hole")
13. Sandals or similar shoe for water crossing and for after the hike
14. 30' of light cord or parachute cord 
15. Notebook and pencil
    
     
     
    © Nicholas Waller

Welcome to Nikipedia

Hello everyone, and welcome to Nikipedia.  I'm the host, Nick Waller, and I was given the trail name "Nikipedia" by a friend and fellow hiker a little over a year ago.  I'm not sure if he was complimenting me on the knowledge of backpacking gear, or just calling me a know it all, probably a little of both.  My knowledge comes from personal experience, friends, and trial and error.  It also comes from basic research and information provided by the product's manufacturer.  It is my goal to use this space to post articles pertaining to the outdoors, skill, and gear.  I want to cover all ranges of topics from basic checklists to how to repair your gear, and more.  I hope you enjoy and are able to make use of some of the information you find here.  Please feel free to let me know if you have any questions, suggestions, or comments.  I'm also always open to corrections and revisions.

Thanks,
Nikipedia