What to pack for a day hike (with coffee!)
There’s nothing quite like hitting the trail early, breathing in the mountain air, and knowing you’ve got a hot (or iced!) coffee in hand. Whether you're headed into the Adirondacks, strolling a local trail in Saratoga, or road-tripping to explore somewhere new, having the right gear makes all the difference — especially when it comes to fueling the adventure.
Here’s our go-to list for what to pack on your next day hike — with a caffeinated twist, of course.
Trail Fuel: Coffee Essentials
Cold Brew or Iced Coffee in a Bottle
We love prepping a strong batch of cold brew the night before and pouring it into an insulated bottle.
What we bring:
→ Iced espresso spritzers from the camper (yes, we take our own drinks on the trail!)
→ Eco-friendly, leakproof thermos
→ A reusable straw (because why not feel fancy in the forest?)
Brewing on the Trail
Feeling adventurous? Bring a compact pour-over or Aeropress and make your cup right at the summit.
Our must-haves:
→ Compact pour-over kit
→ Collapsible kettle or Jetboil
→ Pre-ground beans in a resealable bag (shop our current favorite roasts from indie roasters we love)
🎒 Day Hike Must-Haves
Besides the coffee gear, don’t forget the basics:
Small backpack or hydration pack
2L of water (minimum)
Snacks (trail mix, jerky, dried fruit)
Lightweight rain jacket
Map or GPS app downloaded offline
First aid basics
Sunscreen + bug spray
A mini trash bag (pack it in, pack it out!)
Pro tip: Keep a “hike ready” stash in your car or camper. That way, when the mood hits, you’re already prepped.