The best hiking essentials for beginners: what to look out for

One of the most important factors to consider when packing your hiking essentials is the weather. Remember that the temperatures on the mountain are usually a few degrees colder than in the valley. In addition, you must always expect the weather to change quickly in the mountains.

When choosing your clothing, make sure that you wear breathable layers (base layer) of clothing on the way to the summit, but also have a mid-layer or an outer shell to hand. This will give you adequate protection against wind, rain and snow and prevent you from getting cold. Depending on the temperature, you can add or remove layers.

The so-called onion principle (also known as layering) has become established in this context. This involves wearing functional layers of clothing on top of each other in such a way that they support your performance.

1. The next-to-skin layer consists of breathable performance underwear (base layer) that quickly absorbs and wicks away moisture. It keeps skin dry and protects against chafing and chilling.
2. The next layer is called the mid layer and ensures that body heat is retained.
3. The hardshell or outer shell is designed to protect you from the elements such as rain, wind and snow. The membrane also supports breathability and transports moisture to the outside while preventing water from getting inside.

Tip: Pack your daypack so that you are prepared for any change in the weather.

If you want to start hiking, the question of the right equipment is justified - after all, there is a lot of it. Our RENTertainers have put together the most important essentials for a day trip. But it's up to you to decide what you need on your tour.

• Hiking trousers
• T-shirt
• Mid layer
• An overcoat/rain jacket adapted to the weather conditions
• Hiking socks
• Drinking bottle
• Hiking boots
• Hiking poles
• Backpack
• Headband/headgear

• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen and lip balm
• Cash
• Mobile phone
• Camera
• Personal medication
• Water and food

• First aid kit
• Bivouac sack
• Pocket knife
• Analogue card material

Anyone who is in the process of putting together the perfect equipment for outdoor trips will inevitably face the question: Which hiking boots are the right ones?

As not every tour is the same and requirements vary, the selection is correspondingly diverse. From lightweight hiking boots to expedition boots, there are models that couldn't be more different.

The better your idea of planned routes, the more precisely you can narrow down which shoe is right for you. The following criteria will help you to paint a picture of your hikes as concretely as possible:

• Duration
• Altitude metres
• Topography
• Surface
• Climate
• Weight of the hiking backpack
• Weather conditions

If you're struggling to choose your first pair of hiking boots, the INTERSPORT Rent outdoor experts at our more than 800 locations will be happy to help and advise you. In addition to the right model, they will also help you choose the right size and can give you good tips for trekking adventures in the surrounding area.

An often underestimated piece of equipment is the hiking backpack. It should offer enough space for all accessories and be comfortable at the same time, so it doesn’t get in the way during the hike.

A suitable carrying system is crucial for this. This should correspond to the length of the tour and the size of the pack. A wide hip belt ensures that the weight is evenly distributed over the hips, while a chest strap prevents the hiking pack from sticking out too far.

Depending on the manufacturer, backpacks for hiking have different systems that increase air circulation to prevent heat build-up on the back.

If you are planning a multi-day tour, your equipment will be different. In addition to the existing gear, which will be supplemented by a change of clothing, you will have to decide whether you will cook for yourself during the trek or whether you will hike from hut to hut. The following list applies to both options:

• Tent
• Sleeping mat
• Cooker, crockery, cutlery
• Additional food
• Sleeping bag
• Hygiene articles (toothbrush, tooth cream, soap)
• Towel

All equipment listed is suggested and may vary depending on the trek. It is important to familiarise yourself with the tour so that you are prepared for all eventualities. Reports from other hikers on the internet can also help with planning. Popular platforms for tours often contain information on the equipment required.

Make sure you always have enough food with you on your outdoor adventures. Nuts, dried fruit, but also sandwiches or sports bars are good snacks for in between. Make sure they are easily digestible foods that will provide you with energy for the hike.

A hiking first aid kit should contain the following items:

• Triangular scarf
• Sterile wound bandages in different sizes
• Rescue blanket
• Plasters in different sizes
• Scissors & tweezers
• Disposable gloves

The contents of your first aid kit may vary depending on the length and intensity of your hike.

First and foremost, you should take care of your personal needs. If you are dependent on medication, do not travel without it. This could include asthma inhalers or anti-allergy tablets. Mild painkillersor medicines for stomach aches and diarrheamay also be helpful. Often forgotten are sunscreen, lip balmand insect repellent.