Every great hike begins with preparation. Whether you’re trekking through alpine ridgelines or winding forest trails, having the right gear can make the difference between a memorable adventure and a misadventure. From navigating unknown terrain to handling unpredictable weather, being prepared keeps you safe, comfortable, and fully immersed in the wild.
At the core of your kit should be tools that perform; your clothing, accessories, and gear enhance your experience and elevate your confidence beyond just doing outdoor research. Benchmade’s lineup of outdoor knives and tools does just that, built with precision, designed to last, and ready for wherever the trail takes you.
Essential Hiking Gear
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Backpack: Choose a pack with adjustable straps and proper weight distribution. Opt for a 20–30L pack for short hikes and 40L or more for longer treks. Make sure the straps are padded and consider adding a hydration system for easy access to water.
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Navigation Tools: Always bring a map and compass, even if you rely on GPS. These are invaluable backups when your devices fail or if you’re in an area with poor signal.
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Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Layer your clothing to adapt to changing weather. Start with moisture-wicking base layers, followed by insulating mid-layers, and finish with waterproof or windproof outer layers.
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Footwear: Hiking boots provide ankle support for rugged terrain, while trail shoes are better for well-maintained paths. Ensure a proper fit to prevent discomfort or instability on the trail.
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Hydration & Nutrition: Stay hydrated with a water bladder or collapsible bottle and filtration system. Pack high-calorie snacks like jerky, nuts, and energy bars, and bring lightweight cooking gear for longer trips.
Things to Avoid When Choosing Hiking Gear
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Don’t Overpack: It’s tempting to bring everything "just in case," but excess weight can slow you down and cause discomfort. Stick to the essentials for the type of hike you’re doing.
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Avoid Ill-Fitting Gear: A backpack that doesn’t fit properly, shoes that pinch, or clothing that restricts movement can quickly ruin your hike. Test your gear before the trail to make sure it works with your body.
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Neglecting Hydration: Don’t rely on the environment alone to keep you hydrated. Always carry more water than you think you’ll need, and make sure your hydration system is easy to access.
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Ignoring Weather Prep: Being caught unprepared for changing weather can turn a fun hike into a dangerous situation. Pack layers, and check the forecast before heading out.
Safety and Survival Essentials
- Benchmade Knife: Versatile, lightweight, and built for anything. The Bugout® | CF-Elite® is your go-to for EDC in the outdoors, while the 539GY Anonimus can even spark a fire. Don’t forget the 535-09 Bugout®, a sleek new addition that blends form and function.
- First Aid Kit: Pack the basics—bandages, antiseptics, tweezers, pain relievers—and tailor it to your hike.
- Emergency Shelter: Think compact—bivy sacks, space blankets, or ultra-light tents.
- Fire Starters: Ferro rods, waterproof matches, and mini lighters are all lightweight lifesavers in wet or windy conditions.
Tools and Accessories for an Efficient Hike
- Sheath & Maintenance: Protect your blade with a durable sheath. Before you go, use LifeSharp® to get your Benchmade knife ready for anything.
- Trekking Poles: Great for added support, especially on steep or rocky terrain.
- Headlamps & Flashlights: Essential for early starts, late finishes, or surprise overnights.
- Fire-Starting Accessories: Always carry multiple methods to start a fire, such as stormproof matches, lighters, and a ferro rod. The Anonimus features a ferro rod striking choil, allowing you to easily throw sparks from a ferro rod.
- Rope & Paracord: Compact and versatile, perfect for gear repairs, shelter building, or emergency situations.
Why a Knife Belongs in Your Hiking Gear
A dependable knife is one of the most versatile and essential tools you can pack for the trail. Whether you’re navigating rugged backcountry routes or tackling day hikes, a high-quality outdoor knife enhances both safety and efficiency. A knife can help with cutting rope or paracord, preparing food, trimming branches for fire-starting, first-aid needs like cutting bandages, or even emergency situations. Lightweight and easy to carry, a Benchmade outdoor knife such as the Bugout® or Anonimus delivers unmatched performance when you need it most. Every adventure starts with the right gear—and a trusted knife should always be part of it.
Leave No Trace and Responsible Hiking
- Pack It In, Pack It Out: Bring reusable containers and trash bags to keep the trails pristine.
- Respect Wildlife & Nature: Stay on marked paths, keep a safe distance from animals, and follow posted guidelines.
Being prepared isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about the freedom to explore without hesitation, ensuring a confident and safe adventure with backpacking gear in tow and hiking boots ready to take on the short trails or longer hikes. From trusted tools like the Benchmade Bugout® to the right footwear and fire starter, every piece of outdoor gear plays a role in your adventure.
When you gear up with Benchmade, you're packing more than a knife—you're carrying decades of craftsmanship designed for the wild. Explore more gear and real trail stories at Beyond The Bench. Not sure which knife to take on your next big hike? Use our Knife Finder to discover your perfect trail companion.