Vancouver is the kind of place where you can grab a coffee, drive 20 minutes, and suddenly be surrounded by misty trees and mountain views. I’ve done a lot of day hikes around here — some planned, some spontaneous — and I’ve definitely learned (sometimes the hard way) what to pack in my bag. So if you’re heading out on trail soon and want to avoid cold fingers, soggy socks, or snack regret… this packing list for day hikes is for you!
Top 10 things to bring on your day hike!
(I have added my gear below for recommendations but you can scroll to the bottom for an easy checklist👀)
🥾 1. Good Footwear (aka your feet will thank you)
Vancouver trails can mean anything from gravel paths to muddy root-strewn climbs. I always go with proper hiking boots or trail runners with good grip, especially in spring or fall when the terrain can get spicy. Bonus points if they’re waterproof.
💧 2. Water, Always
Even on short hikes. You’ll be surprised how fast you go through a bottle, especially on uphill sections (looking at you, Quarry Rock). I usually bring both my 500 ml bottles that fit into my running vest or a camelback pack if it’s a longer trek. But the general rule is 500 ml for every hour of hiking! You know your body best so you can adjust this amount, but I always recommend bringing extra incase you run into a side-quest AND/OR leave a big bottle in your car for the drive home!
🥪 3. Snacks — the real MVP
If I’m going to earn a summit view, I’m rewarding myself with something tasty at the top. Think trail mix, energy bars, or my fave: a good ol sandwich or wrap! Don’t forget to pack out everything you bring in, we don’t leave a trace & this includes orange peels or apple cores (it takes months for those to decompose naturally) 👀.
🧥 4. Layers, Layers, Layers
The weather around Vancouver changes faster than a parking meter expires. I always pack a light base layer, a warm fleece or puffy, and a rain shell. Even in summer. It might be sunny in the city and raining on the mountain.
🧢 5. Sun Protection
Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen — even if it’s cloudy. Especially when hiking above the tree line or on reflective terrain like snow or alpine lakes.
🗺️ 6. Map or AllTrails Download
Signal isn’t guaranteed out there. I download the trail map beforehand on AllTrails or Gaia GPS. You don’t want to end up on a “shortcut” that turns into a 3-hour detour.
🧤 7. Mini First Aid Kit
Band-aids, blister pads, electrolyte tabs, and painkillers — I keep a little pouch of these in my pack and it’s come in handy more than once. Especially after testing new boots!
🕯️ 8. Emergency Essentials (for peace of mind on non-trafficed hikes)
A headlamp (even if I’m sure I’ll be back before dark), a whistle, and a lighter or firestarter. It sounds dramatic, but it’s just smart hiking…especially if you’re solo or going off the beaten path.
📸 9. Camera Gear or Phone
Let’s be honest — the views are chef’s kiss and you’re going to want to capture them. I bring my drone or camera on special hikes, but even just a phone with full battery and some space for footage is a must.
🧻 10. TP & a Ziplock (yes, really)
Nature calls, even in nature. On longer day hikes I always keep some tissue and a pack-it-out bag tucked away — because Leave No Trace isn’t just a motto, it’s a lifestyle.
Optional But Fun:
A thermos of tea or coffee (especially in fall or winter) – you can even bring your Jetboil and make it at the top!
Microspikes (from late fall to early spring — snow sneaks up!)
A journal or sketchbook if you like quiet moments on the trail
Crocs for the drive home 😅
“The view’s always better when your socks are dry and your snacks are good.” 🌲🥾✨
Vancouver is a literal hiking playground — forests, lakes, mountains, and ocean views all within 30 minutes of downtown. With the right pack setup, you’ll be ready to enjoy every step (and avoid getting hangry or soaked in the process).
Let me know if you have any must-bring items that I missed! Happy trails 🌲✨