Gear I’m Prepping for Spring Hikes from REI
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Spring is officially here, and that means one thing: hiking season is in full swing! Whether you’re hitting local trails for a few hours or escaping for a weekend adventure, having the right gear makes all the difference. From smart storage solutions to comfy packs and more, here’s everything I’m packing — all sourced from REI, the outdoor shop that has all my hiking essentials covered.
Small-But-Mighty Pack: REI Co-op Trail 5 Waist Pack
For fast, lighter hikes where you don’t need a full backpack, this waist pack is chef’s kiss.
It holds the essentials — phone, snacks, first-aid, sunscreen, a small water bottle — and keeps everything within easy reach. The adjustable hip belt means you can wear it comfortably whether you’re scrambling over rocks or walking through woods.
👉 Great for: quick hikes, short trails, day exploration
Versatile Daypack: Osprey Daylite Plus Pack
If you like to bring a little more with you — extra layers, bigger snacks, a camera — this daypack is my go-to.
It’s lightweight, super comfortable, and has just enough space for everything you need without feeling like you brought your whole closet. Pockets for organization, water bottle holders, and adjustable straps make it perfect for spring trails.
👉 Great for: day hikes, nature walks, and all-around outdoor use
Quality Trail Boots (Pick What Works for You)
When it comes to your feet, comfort is everything. REI offers a huge selection of hiking boots that help you tackle different terrains:
Try 👉 Oboz Sypes Mid Leather Waterproof Hiking Boots – Rugged leather construction and waterproof protection mean dry, supported feet even on wet trails.
There are tons of styles in this family — choose based on terrain and how aggressive your routes are.
👉 Great for: tougher trails, muddy and wet terrain
Trekking Poles (Optional but Handy)
While not hard-essential, trekking poles can make longer hikes way easier — especially if you’re going uphill or hitting rocky terrain. They help reduce knee strain and keep you balanced.
Search for reliable poles on REI’s site — you’ll find brands like Black Diamond, LEKI, and more.
👉 Great for: rocky terrain, longer hikes, elevation gains
Hydration Ready — Bring Your Water!
Spring hikes can be deceptively warm, especially as the sun gets higher in the sky. A favorite hydration hack is using a lightweight hydration pack or simply carrying insulated bottles with reusable reservoirs. REI has tons of hydration packs perfect for keeping water accessible without bulk, like this Gregory hydration reservoir.
👉 Great for: staying refreshed on the trail
🧠 Pro Hiking Tips Before You Go
Before every hike, make sure you have:
✔ Comfortable footwear compatible with the trail terrain
✔ At least 2 liters of water
✔ Snacks for energy
✔ Sunscreen + sunglasses
✔ Navigation tools or trail guide maps (even for short hikes) — REI has hiking maps and books, too!
Spring hiking is one of those seasons where the weather cooperates just enough to make every walk feel magical — flowers blooming, birds chirping, that fresh trail smell 🌿.
Packing the right gear makes it safer, more comfortable, and honestly a lot more fun. Whether you’re sprinting up local hills or exploring national parks, the gear above will have your back (literally and figuratively).
Happy trails! 🥾✨
