Good hiking shoes. When I started hiking, I was wearing whatever sneakers I didn't mind getting dirty, but after I fell and busted up my knee, I changed my tune really quickly. I immediately purchased these Columbia hiking boots, and it was the best decision. It's absolutely flipped my comfort level and I couldn't be happier. 

Reusable water bottle. An obvious need while hiking is water - it's important to stay hydrated. I keep playing around with the idea of getting a water reservoir bladder to tote around in my backpack. But for now, I've stuck to a water bottle. I tend to gravitate towards Nalgene bottles - I opt for the narrow mouth, because otherwise I pour water all over myself like a child. 

A snack. Having diabetes always makes things a little more challenging, and especially when being particularly active, I have to be careful. Most times I go hiking, my blood sugar drops if I don't pay close attention to it. I always have to have a snack on hand - whether it's a box of apple juice or a granola bar. But diabetes or not, it can be important to keep some snacks handy to keep your energy levels high.

Some type of bag to tote necessities. I take different bags from time-to-time, but almost always take some sort of bag with me. The bag helps me keep my keys, chapstick, my ID, and snack - if those are the only things I need to tote around with me, I usually just carry my fanny pack along. If the weather is confusing, I also tend to need layers, and I may want to carry some other things along - if that's the case, a larger backpack is my go-to. I love this incredible Flyer Backpack from Mokuyobi (gifted). It's got enough space and sections to hold everything I need, and I love that the colors match my hiking boots. Mokuyobi has so many fun, colorful things available on their website, but their flagship story recently opened late last year in LA, so you can stop by to checkout everything in-person if you're in the area.