Long-distance walking isn’t just a phenomenal way to explore the outdoors—it’s also a rewarding activity for both your physical and mental well-being. Studies show that walking for extended periods helps improve cardiovascular health, boosts mental clarity, and reduces stress levels. Whether you’re planning a day-long trek or a week-long adventure, having the right gear can make or break your experience.
This guide will take you through the must-have gear essentials for long-distance walking. From choosing proper footwear to navigating tricky terrain, it’s all here so you can step confidently into your next adventure.
Essential Gear for Long-Distance Walking
When it comes to long-distance walking, preparation is everything. Below is a detailed list of items you’ll want to pack for maximum comfort, safety, and efficiency.
Proper Footwear
The foundation of any long walk? The shoes on your feet. Without the right footwear, even the most scenic trail will leave you limping home.
Tips for Choosing the Right Walking Shoes or Boots:
- Fit Comes First: Avoid shoes that pinch or feel loose. Your feet will naturally swell during long walks, so look for a fit with some wiggle room, especially around the toes.
- Support and Cushioning: Long distances demand excellent arch support and shock absorption. Look for shoes with thick midsoles and robust cushioning.
- Breathability: Opt for materials like mesh or Gore-Tex if your walks take you into warmer climates—they allow your feet to breathe.
- Traction Matters: Go for shoes with a robust rubber sole to handle rough, slippery, or uneven terrain. Brands like Merrell, Salomon, or HOKA ONE ONE are great options.
Pro Tip: Break in your shoes weeks before your big adventure to avoid unnecessary blisters!
Comfortable Clothing
The key to staying comfortable during extended walks is layering and choosing the right fabrics.
What to Wear:
- Moisture-Wicking Shirts: Look for materials like polyester or merino wool. They’ll keep sweat away from your skin, keeping you dry and comfortable. I prefer merino wool, it has been a lifesaver.
- Weather-Appropriate Outerwear: Invest in a lightweight, packable waterproof jacket for unpredictable weather. If you’re walking in cooler climates, consider fleece layers for warmth.
- Durable Pants/Leggings: Sports leggings or convertible hiking pants are perfect for varying terrains and weather.
- Socks are Non-Negotiable: Go with moisture-wicking socks designed for hiking to avoid blisters. Many hikers swear by double-layered or merino wool socks for added comfort.
Backpacks and Hydration
Spending hours on the trail means you’ll need to carry supplies. The key is choosing the right backpack and staying adequately hydrated.
What to Look For:
- Comfortable Fit: Opt for a backpack with padded straps and a hip belt to evenly distribute weight across your body. Keep it lightweight but spacious enough to hold essentials. Depending on the weight it might be necessary that you have a backpack with a carrying system that takes the load off of shoulders and neck and offloads it on the hips.
- Built-in Hydration: Many modern backpacks feature compartments for hydration bladders (like CamelBaks). A 2-3 liter bladder is ideal for long-distance walking.
- Water Bottles: Carrying collapsible water bottles is another great option for saving weight and space.
Navigation Tools
Getting lost during a long-distance walk is no fun (and potentially dangerous). Equip yourself with proper navigation tools to stay on course.
Essentials:
- Physical Maps: Even if you have a GPS, always carry a good old-fashioned map of the area.
- GPS Devices: A dedicated GPS device or smartphone with offline maps can be a lifesaver when trails aren’t well-marked.
- Compass: Learn how to use a compass—it’s a fundamental skill for hikers venturing into remote areas.
Pro Tip: Download GPS apps like AllTrails or Gaia GPS before heading out to ensure seamless navigation.
Camping
If we are doing a multi-day trip, these are some items that are necessary for our health and comfort.
- Tent/Hammock: Without a tent or a hammock, the elements, mainly the rain, snow and wind, will make our trip a nightmare. Having a tent suited for the environment is a requirement, as most 3-season tents will not be able to withstand snow, for example.
- Sleeping Bag: Without the sleeping bag, it would be very cold. Having a sleeping bag that is warm enough for the cold night is a must, otherwise you will have a bad time. If you are too cold, you will not be able to sleep at all.
- Sleeping Pad: The sleeping pad helps us get off the cold ground and also often giving us a softer surface to lie on. A quality sleeping pad ensures that you are not only warm, but comfortable while sleeping.
- Flip-Flops: A pair of flip-flops or other type of casual footwear is great when you reach your camp. It feels great to get out of your wet shoes or boots, and to replace them with a pair of dry flip-flops. They also make it easy to visit the bathroom whenever, and is a must-have.
- Kitchen: Some way to cook food is crucial if you are going to be traveling for multiple days.
Safety and Health Considerations
Long-distance walking requires careful attention to safety and your overall health. The following tips can help keep you injury-free and prepared.
Preventing Blisters and Injuries
Blisters and sore muscles can derail any walk. Here’s how to prevent them:
- Tape Hot Spots: Apply moleskin or athletic tape to areas prone to friction.
- Carry a Blister Kit: Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, and blister pads in your first aid kit.
- Stretch Often: Stretch before, during, and after your walk to reduce muscle tightness and prevent injuries.
Sun Protection
Outdoor adventures mean constant exposure to the elements.
- Use sunscreen with at least SPF 30.
- Wear a brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses.
- Opt for lightweight, long-sleeved clothing for extra sun protection.
First Aid Kit
A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for long walks. Include items such as:
- Bandages and antiseptic.
- Pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen or acetaminophen).
- Tweezers and safety pins.
- Emergency survival blanket.
Pro Tip: Learn basic first aid skills before heading off-grid.
Miscellaneous
The items that are essential but didn’t fit into other categories nicely:
- Shovel: Do not be the kind of person who just leaves toilet paper around. Dig down your waste, and dig down your toilet paper.
- Biodegradable Wet Wipes: One of the most important items on this list. Carrying around rolls of toilet paper is ludicrous, as they take up a lot of space, and they are simply bad at what they do. Wet wipes are the superior choice in every way.
- Walking Sticks: Using a pair of walking sticks helps with the weight, strangely enough. After hours of walking, using the walking sticks will make the weight feel much easier off your back.
- Water Purification System: There are many ways to skin a cat, and there are many ways to purify water. Using tablets is a good choice, as they do not take much space yet they work well. I brought a water purification pump, which worked very well but weigh more.
Preparing for Your Long Walk
Before setting off, make sure you’re physically and mentally prepared for the challenge.
Training for Beginners and Experts
If you’re new to long-distance walking, start with shorter walks and gradually increase mileage each week. Seasoned walkers should focus on building endurance and tackling varied terrains during training.
Planning Your Route
A clear plan reduces surprises. Know your trail, identify rest stops, and research the terrain’s difficulty level. Be sure to inform someone of your route and expected return time for safety purposes.
Packing and Weight Management
Overpacking is one of the most common rookie mistakes. Stick to the essentials, and aim for your backpack to weigh no more than 20% of your body weight.
Pro Tip: Distribute the weight in your backpack evenly—heavier items should go close to your back and center, while lighter items can be stored elsewhere.
Take the First Step Toward Adventure
Long-distance walking is one of the most rewarding outdoor activities—it challenges your body, clears your mind, and connects you with the beauty of nature. With the right gear, preparation, and safety measures, you can transform every step into a memorable adventure.
Now it’s your turn to hit the trail! Lace up your boots, grab your backpack, and walk toward your next great discovery.
Happy walking!
