For an all-day hike, Swedish Agnes Maltesdotter recommends packing food, snacks, water, and an extra base layer in case you get sweaty or anything gets wet. Pack a shell jacket to protect yourself from wind and water so you don’t catch a chill. Learn more about gear recommendations for hiking in Scandinavia.
Gear Recommendations for Hiking in Scandinavia
Agnes also recommends bringing a buff, gloves, safety kit, wind sack, map and compass, and an extra pair of breathable socks you can change into.
Gear recommendations for a multi-day hike
For a multi-day hike, be sure to pack all the gear listed above and bring more food so you have enough sustenance. Sturdy, comfortable footwear is also crucial for a long-distance hike. “I recommend wearing waterproof and breathable shoes so you are comfortable in any weather changes,” she says.
For food, I love the Real Turmat packages, which only require hot water in a thermos to cook yourself a proper meal. If you are not staying in a hut, a tent, sleeping bag, and mat is a first-class stay. I normally hike with a lightweight tent for 2 people, so my dogs fit in there as well.
A few safety tips for long-distance hiking
Agnes recommends bringing poles, which help a lot when you get tired. Packing a wind sack can be a lifesaver if the weather changes quickly. Bring a bottle with hot water to help your body temperature heat up if you get cold. Make sure only to drink water that is moving! Bringing clothes to change into also makes a big difference if you want to change your base layer if you’ve been sweaty.
It’s essential to give yourself the time you need to stop and put on layers. Bring more food than you think you’ll need since long-distance hikes can be unpredictable, and you never know if you’ll be stuck anywhere. Make sure friends or family know about your hike. Let them know the route and your estimated time of being there. This makes it easier if you get lost and struggle to find your way back.
“If you are new to long-distance hiking, I would recommend joining a hiking group like Merrell Hiking Club, this women-centric community provides an inclusive and safe space for hikers of all levels,” she concludes.
Daily Scandinavian thanks Agnes Maltesdotter for her gear recommendations for hiking in Scandinavia. Agnes is an experienced Swedish hiker, co-founder of Tori Retreats and brand ambassador for Merrell Hiking Club, a women-centric community which aims to empower, inform and inspire female hikers.
Feature image (on top) © Merrell Hiking Club.