Packing List: Day Hiking and Walking

Kyoto: Hiking from Kibune to Kurama

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Consider the following:

Day Pack
This should be 2500 cubic inches (40 liters). Good brands are Osprey, Dana, North Face, and Arc'teryx.

Layered Clothing
The best way to prepare yourself for a variety of weather conditions is to wear layers. Avoid cotton clothing, as it tends to trap moisture and is a poor insulator.

Outerwear
Plan for the weather. You may need a high-quality waterproof/breathable shell for the rain, or even waterproof pants. For colder weather, think about wearing synthetic layers or a down or synthetic jacket, hat, and gloves.
Hiking Boots
Comfortable, waterproof, and broken in.

Hiking Socks
Socks should fit snugly to minimize bunching and blisters. Wool and synthetic socks are great for comfort and moisture control.

Compass and Maps

Food
Bring high-energy foods such as trail mix, energy bars, and dried fruit.

Water Bottle
Know your liquidation requirements. Always bring more water than you think you'll need. The Nalgene-style wide-mouth bottles are best.

Water Purification Tablets
Check with local authorities about which parasites or health concerns to be aware of. You may need iodine pills or a filtration system. Examples are Potable Aqua, PUR, and Sweetwater.

Matches/Firestarter
You should get the strike-anywhere style, such as Ohio Blue Tips (available in your grocery store). Matches should be sealed in a waterproof container such as a film cannister.

Knife
The Swiss Army style is fine. It should include a can/bottle opener.

Camera/Film

Flashlight/Batteries
You can use a flashlight or a headlamp. Petzl brand headlamps are great.

Plastic Grocery Bags (2)
Good for segregating wet and dirty items in your pack, and for carrying out your trash.

Hat
You'll need a sun hat for sun protection and a stocking cap for insulation in case it gets cold.

Thin Long-sleeved Shirt
This is preferably a "wicking" synthetic, to protect your skin from the sun and from insects.

Sunscreen/Lip Protection
SPF15 or higher is best. The higher the elevation, the stronger the SPF required.

Sunglasses
A must.

Insect Repellant or Head Net
Each person's chemistry is different, so choose what works for you. Repellant brands containing DEET are the most common.

Toilet Paper and Airtight Bag
You'll need the bag to pack it out with you.

First Aid/Blister Kit
This should include the following: bandages, antiseptic, pain reliever, tape, gauze pads, moleskin/foam, an emergency blanket, and a little duct tape.

Small Mirror and Whistle
For safety reasons.