Stay fully equipped for summer hiking—learn how to prepare the gear you need.
The scorching summer is not ideal for long hikes. Medium- or short-distance treks can both boost your fitness and offer unique scenery. Hiking gear is indispensable, so how do you prepare for a summer trip? Today, we’ll break it all down for you.
1. Backpack
By “backpack,” we don’t mean an ordinary school bag or travel tote—we’re talking about a proper hiking backpack. The size of the pack should be chosen based on the length of your hike. For short day trips near the city, a 30L backpack is usually enough, but for longer journeys, opt for something bigger. That said, when choosing a hiking backpack, remember that “bigger isn’t always better”—excess space can actually affect your comfort on the trail.
Once you’ve decided on the capacity, how do you choose the material? In Nanchong’s outdoor gear market, backpacks are typically made from nylon, Oxford cloth, or canvas. Each material offers different advantages. Nylon is lightweight, durable, flexible, and often comes in bright colors with waterproof coatings—making it a top choice among hikers. Oxford fabric is more rugged and abrasion-resistant, usually in more subdued colors, appealing to those who prefer a classic style. Canvas backpacks, though somewhat outdated, still have fans thanks to their classic shape and affordable price.
Compared to regular backpacks, hiking packs have another major advantage: their ergonomic design helps hikers conserve energy. Also, it’s best to choose a bright color—not just for fashion, but for safety. Hiking can be risky, and a vividly colored backpack can literally be a lifesaver if you get lost in the mountains or wilderness.
2. Footwear
Now that you know about backpacks, let’s talk shoes—another essential for hiking. Long walks can strain your ankles, so good footwear can make or break your trip. Here are some tips on picking the right shoes.
Hiking boots can feel hot and stuffy in summer, especially for those with sweaty feet. So for summer hiking, breathability is just as important as grip.
First up: outdoor sandals. Not your average flip-flops—outdoor sandals usually feature thicker soles, sometimes even “Vibram” soles for excellent durability and slip resistance. They’re also designed for comfort and water resistance.
Another great option is water shoes (or “creek shoes”). These low-cut shoes offer good grip and breathability, though they lack ankle support, making them less suitable for long treks or rough terrain.
For serious hikers, mid- or high-cut hiking boots are still the go-to. In summer, focus on breathable materials—mesh or fabric uppers are preferable to full-grain leather, offering better ventilation and comfort.
3. Sunglasses
The right sunglasses for summer hiking depend on your route. For mountain climbing, as altitude increases, the air gets thinner and UV radiation intensifies—so eye protection is crucial. Generally, hiking sunglasses should have a light transmission rating of 3 or higher; for high-altitude climbs, aim for level 4. Look for scratch-resistant lenses, anti-glare coatings, and side shields to reduce sun exposure. But remember: don’t wear them in normal conditions, as overly dark lenses can strain your vision.
For day hikes, lighter and more comfortable sunglasses with accurate color rendition are ideal to reduce eye fatigue. These should have ultra-light frames with a snug fit, and ideally feature rubber nose pads for extra comfort.
For casual summer walking, trendy yet functional sunglasses are a popular choice. These offer 100% UV protection with a lens rating of 2–3, suitable for all daytime activities. Look for stylish frames and slightly wider lenses for a natural fit. For those who wear prescription glasses, custom tinted or clip-on shades are the best option.
4. Sun Protection
Apply sunscreen 30 minutes to 1 hour before heading out, and reapply regularly while outdoors. Even after the “safe” sun window, burns and tans can still happen. When buying sunscreen, don’t assume a higher SPF means better protection. Experts say sunscreen mainly prevents sunburn, with limited ability to prevent tanning—and no product can fully block tanning.
“The SPF (Sun Protection Factor) indicates the level of UVB protection. Higher SPF offers more protection, but the increase doesn’t scale linearly, and high SPF can irritate the skin,” an expert explains. Don’t blindly choose super-high SPF. Opt for SPF 30, PA+++ for general use, or SPF 20, PA++ for outdoor hikes. For intense sun (like on plateaus or beaches), go for SPF 30, PA+++.
In addition to sunscreen, gear like sun shirts and hats are essential for full protection.
5. Medical Supplies
Always carry basic medical supplies for hiking. In hot summer weather, physical exertion is high—stay hydrated and watch for signs of heatstroke. Pack essentials like menthol oil, Huoxiang Zhengqi Water (a traditional Chinese remedy for heat-related issues), and bruise ointment. If you feel dizzy, apply menthol oil to your temples and below the nose, or take Huoxiang Zhengqi Water and rest. Severe cases require stopping the hike and seeking medical help. Summer is also peak thunderstorm season. If you encounter lightning, remove metal objects, wear a raincoat to stay dry, avoid using phones, and seek shelter in caves or low-lying areas to stay safe.
If you encounter lightning, remove all metal objects, put on a raincoat to avoid getting wet, and do not use your mobile phone throughout the process. Quickly seek shelter in a cave or low-lying area to avoid lightning strikes and ensure your safety.