How to Pack for a Winter Hike

Winter hikes offer a unique and stunning outdoor experience but also demand careful preparation and packing. Having the right hiking gear is crucial for comfort, safety, and enjoyment on the trail. 

In this guide, we will walk you through the essential items you need to pack for a frosty hike in Ireland, ensuring you're well-prepared for the adventure ahead.

Winter Hiking Backpacks

Before diving into the specifics of what to pack for your hike, it's vital to have a suitable bag to carry your gear. At Basecamp, we offer a variety of high-quality hiking bags designed to suit different preferences, needs and budgets.

Here are some of our top recommendations:

SpeedLite 17 by Deuter (€69,95)

The SpeedLite 17 backpack is speedy, light and sustainable thanks to Deuter’s Lite back system, ergonomic, perforated shoulder straps, a detachable waist belt, precision-adjustable sternum strap and 100% recycled, bluesign® certified body fabric. Designed for fast-paced hiking, side compression straps effectively reduce load wobble and enable full range of movement. This helps save energy over longer distances too.

AC Lite 17 Paprika by Deuter (€89,95)

The AC Lite 17 Paprika by Deuter is a lightweight, ventilated hiking bag that offers easy access to your essentials with an extended front zipper and stretch mesh side pockets. The bag also provides specific docking loops to attach additional gear like a helmet holder, making it a versatile choice for various outdoor hiking.

Airzone Trek + 35-45 by Lowe Alpine (€149,95)

The Airzone Trek + 35-45 by Lowe Alpine is designed for lightweight backpacking and long hikes. It features the Centro Adjust AirZone back system, offering ventilation and an adjustable fit. The bag's twin compartment design, expandable lid, and various pockets provide ample storage options.

Now let's delve into the essential items you should pack for your adventure!

Winter Hike Packing List

Hiking & Orienteering Compasses

Navigation is key for a successful hike, especially in winter. At Basecamp, we offer a range of high-quality compasses, including the Expedition 4 Compass (€45,95) and the Field Compass by Silva (€22,95). These compasses come with features like declination adjustment and map-measuring capabilities, making them reliable tools for navigating the Irish terrain.

First Aid Kit

Safety should always be a top priority. Our Outdoor First Aid Kit (€15,99) and Mountain 1st Aid by LifeSystems (€49,99) are equipped with essential supplies to address common injuries that might occur during your hike. From dressings and bandages to antiseptic wipes and medications, these first aid kits ensure you're prepared for all unexpected situations.

Water Bottles

Staying hydrated is paramount, especially in colder temperatures. We offer a range of BPA-free water bottles available on our online shop, including the Softbottle 1L CC Apex (€10,95) and the Big Zip Evo 1.5L by Platypus (€38,00). These bottles are lightweight, durable, and designed for easy hydration, ensuring you have continuous access to clean water throughout your hike.

Outdoor Smart Watch

Our collection of smartwatches features the best outdoor watches available in Ireland. Complete with a compass, barometer, weather information, and more, we offer a diverse range of watches suitable for all types of hiking and outdoor adventures such as the Core Ultimate Watch by Suunto (€329,00)  and the Polar Ignite 2 by Polar (€299,95).

Trekking Poles

Trekking poles are essential for distributing the weight you're carrying evenly and protecting yourself from pains and sprains. Our range includes Super Micro by Leki (€54,95), a lightweight pole that can be adjusted from 46 to 90cm and Trail Back Trek Poles Azurite by Black Diamond (€84,95).

Conclusion

Packing the right gear for a winter hike is essential so when you're planning your next adventure, take the weather forecast, trail conditions, and your needs into high consideration.

At Basecamp, we offer a huge range of backpacks and rucksacks including hiking bags, daypacks, compression bags, travel packs and much more. We also have a great selection of outdoor and hiking gear!

Happy hiking!