Pack smart. Pack for the trail you're actually taking.
A day hike and a camping expedition are not the same thing. The gear you need depends on where you're going, how long you'll be out, and what the conditions can throw at you.
You Don't Need Expensive Gear to Start
You don't need to spend a fortune to hike with us.
Borrow before you buy. Ask in the WhatsApp group. Someone might have a spare jacket, trekking poles, or other gear you can use.
Spend where it matters. Be practical with the rest.
The Four Things That Matter Most
Footwear. Rain protection. Water. Warmth.
Get these four right and everything else becomes comfort.
Get them wrong, and the trail can quickly become less about the scenery and more about staying comfortable and safe.
Footwear. Choose shoes or boots with good grip and enough support for the terrain. We recommend going one size up, especially for longer hikes, to allow room for hiking socks and your feet to swell during the day. Extra room also helps reduce pressure on your toes during descents.
Kenyan highland trails can mean mud, wet rock, loose ground, and uneven terrain, so proper grip matters.
Rain Protection. Weather can change quickly. A proper waterproof jacket can make the difference between an enjoyable hike and a miserable one.
Water. Carry enough water for the distance, conditions, and pace of the hike. Check the trip details for the recommended amount.
Warmth. Layers matter. Temperatures can drop significantly as you gain elevation, especially after sunset.
Day Hike or Camping?
Pack the right list for your trip.
A day hike generally requires a 20–30L daypack, 2–3 litres of water, food, rain protection, and appropriate clothing. You'll be back the same day.
A camping trip requires everything above, plus your overnight gear—including a suitable sleeping bag, warm layers, socks, headlamp, and a larger backpack.
Always check the checklist for the specific adventure you've booked.
Leave These at Home
- Jeans. They absorb water and take a long time to dry.
- Unworn boots. Break them in before the hike. Your feet will thank you.
- Unnecessary weight. If you don't need it, don't carry it.
- Anything you'd hate to lose or damage. The trail can be rough on belongings.
- Alcohol. Come prepared to hike, not recover.
- Single-use plastic. Where possible, carry reusable bottles and pack out what you carry in.
- Speakers. Let the forest, the wind, the footsteps, and the conversations have their moment.
Remember
You don't need the most expensive gear.
You need the right gear, packed for the right adventure.
Day Hike Gear Checklist
Clothing
- Quick dry T-shirts
- Lightweight fleece or jacket
- Waterproof jacket or raincoat
- Hiking pants or leggings
Bags & Hydration
- Daypack (20–30L)
- Packed lunch
- Water (at least 2–3L capacity)
- Energy snacks
Footwear
- Comfortable hiking shoes or boots
Accessories
- Cap or sun hat
- Sunscreen
- Small first aid kit
- Sunglasses
- Personal medication
- Trekking pole(s), optional
- Fully charged phone
- Power bank
Optional
- Lightweight rain poncho
- Change of clothes
- Insect repellent
- Wet wipes or tissue paper
Camping Gear Checklist
Clothing
- Quick dry T-shirts
- Fleece jacket
- Waterproof jacket
- Hiking pants
- Waterproof pants
- Thermal inner wear
- Puffer jacket
- Beanie or fleece hat
- Neck gaiter or balaclava
- Sport socks
- Warm socks (for night)
Accessories
- Cap or sun hat
- Gloves
- Mittens (extra warmth)
- Sunglasses
- Headlamp (very important)
- Trekking pole(s)
Footwear
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Gaiters
- Light camp shoes
Bags & Hydration
- Daypack (20–40L)
- Main backpack (65L+)
- Water (at least 3L capacity)
Camping
- Sleeping bag (-5°C or lower)
Ready to put it into practice?
There is a trail on the calendar for exactly your level.