There’s just something so incredible about getting outside in the fall. Don’t you agree? The crisp air, intense colors, and earthy smells. And if you’re a hiker, the trails are at their most magical. Summer crowds quiet, and every crunchy step encourages you to slow down to take it all in. That said, fall hiking also comes with a twist: shorter days and unpredictable weather make it one of the most difficult seasons to pack for. Choosing the right fall hiking gear helps you embrace that change.
For instance, if you start hiking in the morning, you’ll likely need to be more bundled up than usual. By afternoon, you’ll be sweating and stripping off layers. In just a matter of hours (or a few miles), you can go from “I wish I remembered my gloves” to “why didn’t I wear shorts?!”
With all of these changes, smart layering—and a well-packed backpack—are essential. In short, when you have the right fall hiking gear, you’re ready for whatever Mother Nature throws your way. Without lugging around a stupid heavy pack meant for a full-blown expedition.
Let’s dive into essential fall hiking gear for greater comfort and safety.
Layering Up
Smart layering isn’t just a good idea; it’s your secret weapon for a comfortable hike. You’ll have everything you need for a chilly start, a delightful mid-morning mountain climb, a breezy summit, and maybe even a surprise sprinkle. At the same time, you’ll also be well-prepared if the sun comes out, turning up nature’s thermostat.
The question is: how can you stay comfortable without loading your entire gear closet onto your back?
It starts with the right foundation: an essential tank or short sleeve layer that’s breathable and moisture-wicking. This base is what keeps sweat from clinging, leading to chills that make you shiver.
Just a quick heads up: Some of the gear we mention below includes affiliate links. That means if you decide to grab something we 🧡, we may earn a small commission. (At no extra cost to you.) We only share products we genuinely love and think can make your adventures better or more comfortable.
Some of our top picks for the base layer include:
- Patagonia Capilene Cool Lightweight Tee: We love these super soft and airy T-shirts because they’re so lightweight and comfortable, provide sun protection, and dry in a flash. Plus, they’re made from recycled materials.
- Smartwool Merino 100% Merino Wool T-shirts: Merino wool is a temperature-regulating, odor-resistant material that will keep you comfortable through a range of temperatures—morning through night. Smartwool is one of our go-to brands as the quality is always top-notch.
- Icebreaker 200 Oasis Crew: On those fall days when you know the temps will stay in the lower range, this is a great long-sleeve merino layer that feels cozy without feeling stifling.
- Kari Tara Rose Half-Zip: For women who appreciate some Scandinavian flair, these highly rated long-sleeve shirts offer warmth, breathability, and comfort with fun styles that look as good on the trail as they do around the campsite.
Next up is the insulating layer. During the transition seasons (i.e., fall and spring), a warm coat is essential for early mornings, when you stop for a snack break, or when the clouds roll in. Because you may be packing it in (or out), look for a jacket that’s light and compressible enough to stash in your backpack when you don’t need it. You can’t go wrong with:
- Arc’teryx Atom LT Hoody: While these are admittedly pricey, they’re also so well made that they can last for decades, becoming your favorite warming layer on and off the trail. They provide both warmth and wind resistance while packing down small.
- REI Co-op 650 Down Jacket: Another great option that’s easier on the wallet, this down jacket is lightweight and warm, fitting neatly into its own pocket to be easily stashed in your pack.
Clear skies can lead to afternoon drizzles (rain or snow) in the fall. A good shell can keep you dry and protect you when the winds pick up. Some of our favorite top layers include:
It’s easy to focus on what’s above the waist, but you can’t forget your bottom half. Your legs deserve just as much attention, especially since they do most of the work. The right pants, leggings, or shorts can keep up.
Leggings, for example, aren’t just for the yoga mat. They provide stretch and comfort and can also be layered under shorts or rain pants if the weather takes a turn. You will, however, want to look for leggings that are made for movement rather than lounging. Some top options to consider?
Lightweight, quick-drying, and flexible hiking pants are versatile enough to go from morning coffee around camp to scrambling over rocks or fallen logs to picking up lunch at a nearby café, especially with brands like:
- Prana Halle Pants
- Prana Stretch Zion Pants
- Columbia Silver Ridge Convertible Pants (which can also convert to shorts if the weather warms)
There are still plenty of days in the fall when it’s shorts weather—especially if you’re hiking further south or in desert regions—for women and men. That said, it’s probably a good idea to have a backup layer in case the temperatures drop faster than expected.
With the right layers, you’ll be ready for whatever the day brings. Zip it up, shed it, or stow it away without losing your stride. One quick note: you’ll want to avoid heavy cotton for any of the layers as cotton traps in moisture, and you can get chilled fast once you stop for a rest. You’ll be more comfortable wearing synthetic blends or merino wool, as they dry more quickly and resist odors.
Photo by Clay Banks on Unsplash
Show-Stealing Accessories
If you, too, are an avid hiker, you likely know that some of the smallest gear makes the biggest difference. Even if you have a top-of-the-line jacket or the most comfortable hiking pants on the market, if your feet get soaked or your hands get numb with cold, all you’ll want to do is get back to the RV to warm up.
As anyone who’s ever had to limp back to the trailhead with a blister can attest, the right socks are perhaps THE most important hiking gear. Again, skip the cotton. Always. Look instead for materials that wick moisture while still providing some cushion. We’re partial to merino wool. Check out:
Hats and gloves aren’t just for winter. Even a cool breeze over your ears and hands can chill the whole body. A beanie or buff can hold in the warmth, block wind, and stave off that chill. Flexible, lightweight gloves can keep your fingers cozy and let you handle zippers, gear, and even snacks:
- Buff Original EcoStretch Neckwear (which can work as a headband, hat, or neck warmer in one small accessory)
- Black Diamond Screentap Gloves
Photo by Ralf Sauter on Unsplash
Fall Hiking Gear: Picking the Perfect Pack
Now that you’re dressed and ready to hit the trail, it’s time to grab your bag. The right backpack can really make a difference. If it’s too small, fitting in all your gear can feel like a game of Tetris. Too big? You’ll have a sloppy, heavy load.
For most day hikes, a 15- to 30-liter pack is the sweet spot. Roomy enough to carry extra layers, snacks, and essentials. But small enough that you won’t feel like you’re heading out for days rather than hours.
Comfort is key when it comes to the right pack. Before you head out, fill it up and give it a test run around camp. Adjust the straps to ensure they fit snugly around the hips and shoulders. A padded hip belt can shift the weight off your back. And a ventilated back panel can help you keep your cool even on warm climbs.
Additional features to look for include:
- Built-in sleeves for a water bladder
- Side pockets for easy access to water bottles or trail snacks
- Top pockets, which are a great place to store your phone, map, headlamp, and other navigation items
- Loops and lash points to easily attach trekking poles or other gear that fits better on the outside.
Trail-tested picks we 🧡 include:
A great backpack is so comfortable it feels like you’re not even wearing one—carrying all your hiking gear without feeling like it’s a burden. Choosing one that feels good before you step onto the trail leads to better hikes all year round.
Smart Tech for Safety on the Trail
Even if you don’t consider yourself “techy,” if your idea of a great hike is one that’s far off the grid, you’ll want to bring a few modern-day essentials for safety. Shorter days and unpredictable weather in the fall make it even more important to stay prepared and connected.
Emergency satellite communicators have quickly become must-haves for hikers and RVers who need safety, security, and peace of mind when cell service disappears. You can send SOS alerts, share your location, and even text loved ones from the middle of nowhere.
Some easy-to-use, affordable options include:
Yes, each device requires a subscription plan. But for serious RVers and hikers, that small monthly cost is well worth it.
You may also need something for power. Even if you don’t need the GPS, your phone and camera might need to be recharged, especially if you’re trying to capture the views along the way. Having extra light, like a headlamp, is a good idea because the sun drops quickly in the fall, and finding your way back to the trailhead in the dark can be intimidating.
These lightweight, trail-ready picks are essential fall hiking gear:
Keep your electronics and chargers in a waterproof stuff sack, zip-top, or even zip-lock bag to ensure they don’t get wet—water and tech don’t mix!
Be prepared to go old-school if you’ll be heading into unfamiliar territory or off the beaten path. A map and compass (and the skills to use them) can help you find your way back to your RV if your satellite goes dark due to heavy cloud cover or deep canyon walls.
Photo by Liam Matthews on Unsplash
Hydration and Trail Fuel to Keep You Going
The best gear in the world won’t help if you bonk out halfway to the summit. Carrying enough food and water is absolutely essential for any hike, especially in the fall, when cooler mornings can make you forget how much you’ll be sweating and, consequently, how much water you’ll need once you start moving.
Indeed, even when the weather gets cooler, dehydration is still a possibility, and it can sneak up on you fast. As a general guideline, carry at least half a liter of water per hour of hiking. Add more if the terrain is expected to be steep or if it looks like a warmer, sunnier fall day.
If you’re enjoying just a short hike, then a reusable water bottle, such as a Hydro Flask, RTIC, or Nalgene, will do the job well. For longer hikes, a hydration bladder that stays in your backpack and lets you sip as you move is a great option. (Some of us like them so much, they’re the go-to no matter how long or short the hike. It’s just nice to have your hands free.)
If you’re hiking in more remote locations, don’t refill your water without purifying it first. A water filter like the Sawyer Mini or LifeStraw fits nicely into your fall hiking gear bag and can help you stay hydrated if you didn’t pack in enough water.
On days when you’re really working up a sweat, a simple electrolyte packet (e.g., Liquid IV or Nuun) can help replace what you’re losing and keep your energy levels up.
Next up: snacks. To fuel your body, pack both carbs for energy, protein to keep you full, and healthy fats for staying power. Some tried and true favorites include:
- Trail mix
- Jerky
- Nut butter packets
- Granola or energy bars
- Fresh fruit
For longer hikes, pack a meal to go, such as a wrap or sandwich, hummus and veggies, or a thermos with warm soup if you’re willing to carry the extra load.
Once your energy levels start to dip, it’s hard to bounce back. A few small bites every hour can help keep your stamina steady as you make your way to the summit.
Photo by Evan Wise on Unsplash
Essential Extras
It’s the little things that can make the biggest impact on not only our comfort and safety. For example, a headlamp can become a non-negotiable even if you aren’t planning on hiking after dark. Fall days are shorter, and dusk can sneak up—especially if you stop to enjoy the sunset. A headlamp like the Petzl Tikka or Black Diamond Spot 400 can shine a light on the trail. And because they’re compact, they’re easy to stash in your pack during the day.
Fall hiking often means fewer buzzing pests (thank goodness!). But fewer doesn’t mean none, especially if you’ll be hiking near rivers or in wooded valleys. If you do come across some annoying mosquitoes or gnats, a few insect repellent wipes tucked into your pack can deter them, so you can focus on the gorgeous scenery instead of trying to find ways to get them to leave you alone.
A small first-aid kit—with some adhesive bandages, blister pads, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and perhaps some athletic tape can turn a budding blister or minor scrape into a non-issue. Make your own or check out pre-packed kits like the Adventure Medical Ultralight/Watertight 7.
Especially if you’ve chosen a longer hike or are hiking at a higher altitude, a broad-spectrum sunscreen and SPF lip balm should have a permanent place in every hiking pack—no matter the season. You can still burn or cause sun damage when it’s cloudy on shorter treks.
Last but not least, pocket tissues or wipes are another absolute essential year-round. You’ll thank yourself later if they’re in your pack. Trust us.
Get Ready to Wonder with Essential Fall Hiking Gear
Fall hiking is one of our favorite simple pleasures. Crisp air fills your lungs. Golden leaves crunch underfoot. Earthy smells awaken your senses. And there’s a profound sense of peace that only being out in nature brings. That said, it’s also one of the most unpredictable seasons, and a little planning goes a long, long way.
The right fall hiking gear keeps you comfortable, safe, and confident, no matter what the day or weather brings. So, you can stop worrying about what’s in your pack (or what’s not) and instead soak up all that makes this such a spectacular season to hike.