5 Hiking Must-Haves
Our favorite gear for hikes with kids, friends, or just a little solo peace on the trail. From a foldable trail blanket to a vintage bandana, these 5 must-haves make every step feel a little lighter.
There’s nothing better than a good trail, clear skies, and gear that works hard so you don’t have to.
These five finds are practical, packable, and pretty enough to earn a spot in your photos. Whether you're heading out for a quick family hike or a full day of adventure, these are some of my favorite trail companions.
1. Vintage Floral Bandana
Not just cute — it’s surprisingly useful. Wear it as a headband, neck guard, sweat cloth, or even tie it to your backpack for trail flair. Lightweight, washable, and full of charm.
2. EYOS Hiking Daypack
This pack checks all the boxes. It’s lightweight, durable, and neutral enough to blend with any outdoor outfit. Bonus points for having side pockets that actually fit a water bottle.
3. Wide-Brim Hiking Hat
A shady staple. This hat keeps the sun off your face, looks pulled together, and stays put on breezy hikes. It’s a must for long days and hot weather.
4. Leakproof Hydration Bottle
Kids or adults — nobody likes a leaky bag. This bottle is slim, cute, and locks tight. It’s one of my go-to hiking essentials for short treks and big days alike.
5. Compact Trail Blanket
Folds into a pouch, weighs almost nothing, and comes in handy at snack stops, lookouts, or impromptu devotion moments. We keep one clipped to the outside of our bag.
Whether you're hiking with toddlers, teens, or just your own thoughts, little things make a big difference.
Affiliate links are used in this post. As always, I only share what I’ve actually used and loved — gear that earns its place on the trail.
5 Must-Haves for a Cozy Campsite
Five cozy campsite picks that make outdoor life simpler, softer, and more pulled together. Our go-to gear for calm mornings and fireside nights.
You don’t have to sacrifice comfort to enjoy camp.
These are five things that make our site feel cozy, pulled together, and a little more peaceful... especially after a long day on the trail or wrangling kids.
We’ve tested them, packed them, repacked them.
We’d bring them every time.
1. Collapsible Camp Tote
Doubles as a side table. Folds flat when not in use.
We toss in snacks, blankets, or use it as a coffee station.
2. Muslin Throw Blanket
Soft, breathable, and layered in cozy.
We keep two on hand. One always ends up in someone’s lap by the fire.
3. Retractable Camp Lights
Switches between warm glow and color mode. Packs small, glows big.
We string these across the awning or toss them inside the tent for bedtime magic.
4. S’more Stick box + Roasting Sticks
Color-coded roasting sticks in a clear utility box. No more gooey bags.
Kid-friendly, dishwasher-safe, and easier to pack.
5. Enamel Dish Set
Durable, cute, and better than disposable.
We use ours for everything... from chili to cinnamon rolls.
Save this post for your next packing session.
Follow @palomapines for real gear picks and campsite inspiration that actually work.
This post includes affiliate links. If you purchase through one of them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only share what we use, love, and pack in our own bins.