When I was planning my trip to Scottsdale, Arizona I realized that I need to travel ready for a hike. Scottsdale, AZ has lots of trails for great hikes, magnificent desert gardens, and we also planned a road trip to the Grand Canyon. You can read all about my experience and places that I recommend visiting in Scottsdale, AZ here: Scottsdale Getaway: Things to do in Scottsdale, Arizona.
I'm going to share what I packed for my Scottsdale trip and what I recommend you to take your next time hiking a trail. The list is focused on a hiking during the daytime, warm weather, and for generally novice or easy hikes. I would also suggest checking the weather forecast at your exact destination using apps like AccuWeather or Tomorrow Weather to revisit exactly what to pack.
Hiking Packing List
1. FOOTWEAR
If your hike involves rocks or light gravel, you might need more support. I would recommend to get good quality hiking shoes. I went from wearing running shoes to wearing these Merrell boots and I can totally feel the difference in support. I actually got them for the Scottsdale, AZ trip. These specifically are called the Moab 2 Waterproof and the matching hiking sneakers for my husband, called the Moab 2 Mid Waterproof. Having ankle support on your hiking shoes, and more if you are doing challenging hikes makes all the difference in the world.
2. WATER + SNACKS
I like to have an Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle that keeps the water cold. I drink from my bottle whenever I stop to catch my breath or admire a view. A bottle of water is must-have, you don't want to be dehydrated. Snacks are highly dependable on your preference and diet, but good to carry them just in case it gets too hot and you need to get that sugar up.
3. SUNSCREEN
As much as I like to have a tan during summer, the sun can be cruel in the mountains while hiking. If you go to a place like the Grand Canyon which the elevation is high, the sun is stronger, especially mid-day, you definitely would want to protect yourself from the sun. For the SPF, it is best above SPF-50 but anything SPF-30+ it is fine. My favorites are the Supergoop Glow Screen SPF-40, LATHER Daily Defense Tinted Mineral SPF-50, and the Dermalogica Invisible Physical Defense SPF-30. Remember even on cloudier days, you must protect your skin.
4. HAT
I also recommend packing some type of baseball cap to protect your face from the sun. The sun in Scottsdale during the summer can be very intense.
5. SUNGLASSES
I like to have nice & stylish, but affordable polarized sunglasses. If I lose them it will not hurt my pocket, because let's be real, chances are I might misplace them. I never bring any designer sunglasses for a hike. I brought with me to the Scottsdale, AZ trip the Quay sunglasses, but I also recommend the DIFF Tahoe or the Becky. I linked other affordable options here.
6. SHORTS OR BIKER SHORTS
I wore the Get Moving Shorts from Spanx and they were perfect, the built-in shorts stay put while you are on the move plus the fabric is very breathable. I would also recommend bringing a good pair of bike shorts, I love the Lululemon Fast and Free Short 6'. These biker shorts are a good length, and they were great for all hikes and/or lounging around.
7. SUPPORTIVE SPORT BRA
I wore the Longline Medium Impact Sport Bra from Spanx because it's super breathable and a great length. I also love the Free People Happiness Runs Crop. You can see all my recommendations here.
8. FAN
Yes, you are reading right, portable fans are very common when hiking in a very hot and dry place like Scottsdale. The portable neck fan was the most popular. You don't want to have your hands busy while doing a hike. Linked another neck fan style here.
9. BACKPACK
Backpacks are about preference and how many items you are willing to carry during your hike. Personally, I like to just bring the essentials listed above. You should have one backpack with enough storage for all of your hiking necessities, not adding too much weight, and fitting you comfortably. Or you can always just use your husband's lol.
Let me know if you are going for a hike or visiting Scottsdale anytime soon? If you have any questions, please drop it below!
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