Urban Hiking: What You Should Pack

I regularly go urban hiking in and around my new town, and I am often asked suspiciously, “You went alone?!” As much as I love a family outing, I love spending time with myself too. Last weekend, as the brisk morning air kissed my cheeks, the break of the day barely visible over the horizon, and a pair of curious fawn stood by as I walked past, I began my latest solo urban hike without a worry in the world.

The planned hike was to be 26 miles, and I wanted to get a head start on the day before other runners, walkers, and cyclists got on the trail. The unseasonable chill aside, the route was peaceful and serene in the early morning light. It was another hour or so before I encountered my first cyclist of the day on that immensely popular path.

While I generally feel very safe on this particular multi-use path and worry most about not finding a restroom when I need it, when planning my urban hikes, I like to pull from my knowledge from day hiking in California. Taking the proper gear and necessary precautions help to keep the urban hiking experience enjoyable and safe. Here are is a list of things to pack for an urban hike.

Choose the Right Clothing

Plan your clothing choices based on the weather conditions. If it is summertime, wear clothing that is moisture-wicking and allows adequate ventilation. For autumn, winter, and early spring, it is a good idea to wear gloves or mittens, a moisture-wicking base layer, and a second layer (such as an insulated jacket) you can take off as the day warms up. Do not forget a sun-shielding hat (great for any time of year).

Unlike trail hiking, urban hiking is mainly performed on concrete and pavement. Since the long miles can be hard on the joints, invest in a supportive shoe with good cushioning. Additionally, moisture-wicking athletic socks have been a massive priority in my blister prevention strategy.  

Pack an Urban Hiking Bag

Part of the fun of urban hiking is being self-sustained. All of the gear that I will need during the entire trek is carried in my backpack, just like on a hiking trail. Here are my must-haves:

• Hydration bladder
• Fully charged cellphone
• A disposable poncho
• Snacks like nuts or energy bars
• Sun protection (i.e., Sunglasses, sunscreen, etc.)
• A high capacity power bank to recharge my cellphone.
• First aid kit
• Lip balm
• Paper maps
• Hand sanitizer

Personal Safety Equipment

While for the most part, urban hiking is a safe sport. Whether you are an early morning walker like me, or you like to start your walk well into the day, having a sense of safety and empowerment is an absolute must for any woman. Being aware of your surroundings and planning ahead for any unpleasant or dangerous encounters is a great way to ensure your hike is safe and empowered. Here are a few things I carry with me: 

Headlamp and reflective clothing. I rarely walk past sunset, but I occasionally walk plan to start before dawn, especially since the days are getting shorter. A headlamp and reflective clothing ensure I’m seen by drivers, cyclists, and other walkers and/runners.

Sabre Pepper Spray. Pepper sprays are discreet and safe enough to hold in your hand, keep in a pocket, or hook onto your backpack strap with the quick release keyring while you are hiking. The Sabre Pepper Spray Keychain with Quick Release Key is a non-lethal pepper spray with a remarkable 10-foot (3 m) range. The 25 bursts (up to 5x other brands) offer a powerful stream distribution to decrease wind blowback. One spray causes your attacker—person or animal— to have immediate eye closing, difficulty breathing, runny nose, and coughing. Plus, should you have to use the spray, the UV the marking dye helps identify the suspect. Available at Walmart and SabreRed.com.

Sabre Runner Pepper Gel. This high-performing pepper gel is not like other standard pepper sprays on the market today. The Sabre Black Runner Pepper Gel can be applied at a 20% greater reach (12 feet/4 m) for security at a more safe distance with almost no wind blowback, so it only affects your target. It also contains UV marking dye to help with suspect ID. Plus, the adjustable, reflective hand strap has a reflective logo that adds extra visibility. Available at Walmart and SabreRed.com.

Personal Alarm. If pepper spray isn’t your thing, you may favor a personal alarm for additional protection from strangers, dogs, and wild animals while you are out hiking. This NBCF Personal Alarm with Keyring from Sabre features a 120dB dual siren alarm that helps call for assistance in an emergency and helps deter attacker, audible up to 600 feet (185 m) away. It is small enough to fit in your pocket and easily attaches to your keys or backpack. Available at Walmart and SabreRed.com.

All activities involve some risk level, but I consider urban hiking to be relatively safe as I avoid areas known to be a little sketchy, stick to popular multi-use trails, and carry personal safety equipment from Sabre Red.

Do you feel safe on your local multi-use trails or roads? What do you carry with you to stay safe?

This post is part of the Bloggin’ Mamas and Sabre sponsored program. I received compensation as a thank you for my participation. This post reflects my personal opinion about the information provided by the sponsors.