Summer Day Trip Essentials- What to keep in your day pack this summer

I am sure that anyone out there reading this has a beat up old daypack or fanny pack that sits in their mudroom, under the bed or on that one dedicated coat hook. The daypack is an essential piece of gear, not just for day hikes but also for family outings to the lake, four wheeling trips or whatever else allows one to squeeze as much summer out of the year as possible. Daypacks come in all shapes and sizes, but the important thing is that you are carrying the right items in your backpack. Having a well equipped day pack can save you from having to head home early due to a lack of preparation. Let’s dive into some of the must-have items for any day pack.

First Aid: The Obvious One- Accidents can happen and probably will, so having a basic first aid kit is paramount. For a day pack, keep it simple by including bandaids, neosporin, gauze and waterproof bandage tape. Beyond that, you can customize your first aid kit depending on the type of activity you are doing.

Ibuprofen, hand sanitizer, sunscreen and bug spray are always good additions, and these days I keep some motion sickness tablets as well as an antidiarrheal just in case.

Hydration: Having a backup- Staying hydrated is crucial for outdoor activities, especially when you are at altitude. Always bring more water than you suspect you will need. Aside from your main water source, it is wise to keep a backup. Water can leak or bottles can crack, and having some sort of water filtration or purifier can be a clutch item to save your day trip.

You can put Iodine tablets in your first aid kit as a lightweight option but they aren’t exactly convenient. Having a water filtration device is a much quicker path to clean water and there are many water bottles with built in filtration (lifestraw, katadyn, etc.).

Nutrition: High calorie snacks- For adults, this may not be something that will make or break your trip but we have all been on the trail and seen that one toddler that is not having it. Having some extra calories in your day pack can be the solution to cranky kids and adults alike.

Keeping high calorie snacks like nuts, beef jerky or to-go peanut butter pouches are great options. These items have long shelf lives and they do not melt, meaning they can be kept in your pack all summer long and still be fine.

Satellite communication: The S.O.L. button- I can imagine a time in the near future where everyone will have satellite communication in their pocket at all times. The new Iphones have technology that allows you to text with EMS even if you are outside of cell service and I'm sure other phone manufacturers have this on the way. Being able to call for help whether you are hiking, rafting or just driving around is very important.

2 way satellite communication devices like the Garmin In-reach allow you to text a buddy if you get a flat tire or call search and rescue when something happens. The key with technology is making sure it has enough battery before you leave home…

Sun Protection: Sun screen, sun glasses and sun shirts- Nothing is worse than getting home from a hike and seeing just how sunburnt you got especially knowing that it is a very preventable ailment. Whether that means sunscreen or some sort of UV resistant clothing and sunglasses, having sun protection for your body is essential for outdoor adventures.

Throw some cheap sunglasses in a side pocket of your backpack to ensure that if you lose or forget your main pair, you have a backup.

A good Rain Jacket: Plan for the worst, hope for the best- During the summer months in the western United States, you should plan to encounter afternoon thunderstorms. These storms are typically short lived. That being said, it is still good to have some protection from the weather. Keeping a rain jacket in your day pack means that the weather will not be a limiting factor in your adventure.

HOT TIP: Keeping some sort of lightweight tarp in your daypack can be a good substitute for a rain jacket, especially if you are out with other people. Tarps can be used as a lean-to shelter in a pinch. Conversely you can use it as a poncho when pitching it as a shelter is not an option.

Multi-Tool: One tool to fix it all- A multi-tool can be invaluable for various tasks during your day out, such as cutting rope, repairing gear, or preparing food. Choose something with a sharp blade, a screwdriver and pliers at the bare minimum. You want multi tool that can solve an array of different problems. Put the multi tool in your pack and leave it in there for the summer.

Light Source: Headlamp or flashlight- Even if you plan to finish your adventure before dark, it's essential to carry a reliable light source such as a headlamp or flashlight. Using the light on your phone can be a good backup but it shouldn’t be considered the first option.

Headlamps allow your hands to be free while still providing plenty of light. Flashlights tend to be heavier but can provide more light.

By packing these essential items in your backpack, you'll be well-prepared for a safe and adventurous day out. It also doesn't hurt to keep some back ups of these items in your dedicated adventure vehicle just in case. While it is a good idea to add items that you feel are needed for a specific trip, try to leave all of the essentials inside your daypack so that they don’t get left at home. Now get out there and enjoy your summer!