Overnight Hike Essentials

Embarking on an overnight hike is an adventure that promises breathtaking views and unforgettable memories. To ensure a smooth journey, it's essential to pack the right gear. Our collection of overnight hike essentials is designed to enhance your outdoor experience, offering quality and durability you can rely on. From comfortable clothing to versatile equipment, each item has been thoughtfully selected to help you tackle the trails with confidence and ease. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or new to the trail, our range of essentials will support your journey every step of the way.

Sort by:

Filter & Sort

476 Items

L.L.Bean Trailblazer 250 Headlamp

A 250-lumen headlamp with red mode, adjustable strap, and IPX4 water resistance in mallard teal.
Adults' L.L.Bean Adventure 50 Sleeping Bag
Price was from: $99.95 now: $84.99

A versatile, lightweight summer sleeping bag in camp green, made from soft 50-denier polyester.

Pros: Great purchase Lightweight Comfortable material Complements winter bag Compact size
L.L.Bean Ridge Runner Sleeping Pad

A lightweight, packable sleeping pad with Primaloft® Black insulation and 3.5" thickness for excellent comfort.
Women's Osprey Pack Fairview 55

A women's travel pack with a detachable day pack, made from recycled polyester with a comfortable suspension system.
Adults' L.L.Bean Adventure 30° Sleeping Bag, Double

A lightweight, roomy double sleeping bag with recycled polyester insulation and a tough ripstop polyester shell.
L.L.Bean Ridge Runner Pack, 26L

A lightweight gray hiking backpack made from durable nylon with breathable mesh panels and multiple storage pockets.
Adults' L.L.Bean Adventure 30° Sleeping Bag

A lightweight, roomy sleeping bag with recycled polyester insulation and a tough ripstop polyester shell.
L.L.Bean Adventure Sleeping Bag, 25° Mummy

A crisp lapis mummy sleeping bag with high-loft polyester insulation and an integrated sleeping pad sleeve.
L.L.Bean Continental Weekender Pack

A durable black weekender pack made from recycled polyester with padded straps and multiple exterior pockets.
Big Agnes Rapide SL Insulated Sleeping Pad

An insulated, superlight 3-season orange sleeping pad with durable double-ripstop nylon and heat-reflective film.
Personal Organizer Toiletry Bag, Medium

A medium-sized, water-resistant nylon toiletry bag with multiple compartments and a built-in hanging hook.

Pros: Well-made and durable Plenty of space and compartments Perfect size for traveling Smooth and working zippers Attractive and versatile design
Women's Vista Camp Pants, Straight-Leg Cargo

A rugged, lightweight green pant with UPF 50+ protection, made from abrasion-resistant nylon and spandex.

Pros: Durable and well-made Versatile design Lightweight and quick-drying Ample pockets Comfortable fit
Women's Vista Camp Pants, Crop

A lightweight, gray cropped hiking pant with UPF 50+ protection and moisture-wicking nylon-spandex blend.

Pros: Lightweight and breathable Good pocket design Versatile for travel and outdoor activities Quick drying and moisture-wicking Comfortable fit
Women's Vista Camp Pants, Slim-Leg

A pair of slim-leg camp pants in nautical navy, made from a durable, moisture-wicking nylon blend.

Pros: Perfect for summer travel Lightweight material Excellent quality Quick-drying Comfortable fit
Women's PrimaLoft Packaway Hooded Jacket
Price was from: $199 now: $79.99

A lightweight, wind-resistant jacket with PrimaLoft Gold Insulation and NASA-developed Aerogel technology for superior warmth.

Pros: Compact and packable Lightweight Warmth Versatile Comfortable
Men's Water-Resistant Cresta Pants, Standard Fit

A pair of durable, water-resistant hiking pants in dark driftwood with UPF 50+ protection and articulated knees.

Pros: Great fit Lightweight Durable Versatile Comfortable
Men's Ultralight 850 Down Jacket

A versatile, water-repellent down jacket in mallard teal, made from recycled ripstop nylon for superior warmth.

Pros: High quality True to size Lightweight design Superior warmth Comfortable fit
Women's Vista Trekking Pants, Mid-Rise Straight-Leg

A lightweight, durable pair of trekking pants with UPF 50+ protection and moisture-wicking fabric.

Pros: Quick drying Lightweight Versatile Comfortable Good fit
Men's Cresta Shorts, 10"

A durable, lightweight nylon blend hiking short with UPF 50+ protection and multiple zippered pockets.

Pros: Quick drying Good quality Lightweight Nice pockets with zippers Comfortable fit
Men's Cresta Pants, Standard Fit, Fleece-Lined

A pair of alloy gray, fleece-lined hiking pants with UPF 50+ protection and two-way stretch fabric.

Pros: Warmth Durable Versatile Comfortable Good fit
Women's Waterproof PrimaLoft Packaway Jacket

A lightweight, waterproof, and windproof jacket with PrimaLoft insulation, adjustable hood, and multiple pockets.

Pros: Waterproof Lightweight Warmth Versatile Comfortable
Adults' Cresta Wool Lightweight Hiking Socks, Crew

A pair of pink merino wool blend crew socks offering moisture-wicking, odor resistance, and seamless comfort.

Pros: Softness and warmth Attractive color and style Durable quality Lightweight design Comfortable fit
Men's VentureStretch Five-Pocket Pants, Standard Fit, Straight Leg

A versatile, abrasion-resistant pant with UPF 50+ protection and water-repellent finish for all-day comfort.

Pros: Lightweight Water repellent Versatile Stretchy fabric Comfortable fit
Men's Water-Resistant Cresta Zip-Off Pants, Standard Fit

A versatile, water-resistant hiking pant in dark cinder that converts to shorts and offers UPF 50+ protection.

Pros: Great for hiking Versatile design Durable material Comfortable fit Multiple zippered pockets

Overnight Hike Essentials

An overnight hike is a chance to experience the outdoors in a way that brings together adventure, self-reliance, and the simple joys of camp life. Whether you’re heading out for your very first night under the stars or you’ve logged countless miles on backcountry trails, the right gear makes all the difference. As autumn settles in and the days grow shorter, the essentials for an overnight hike become even more important, with crisp evenings and changing weather adding their own excitement—and challenges—to the adventure. When planning your overnight pack, it’s worth considering not only the basics like a sturdy backpack and reliable shelter, but also the thoughtful details that turn a good trip into a great one. A comfortable sleeping bag and pad, layers of clothing that keep you warm and dry, and a headlamp that lights the way after sunset are all must-haves for a restful night and a smooth morning on the trail.

Choosing overnight hike essentials is about more than just checking items off a list—it’s about finding gear that fits your needs and stands up to the elements. Look for pieces that offer lasting value and durability, with details like reinforced stitching, weather-resistant fabrics, and intuitive designs that are easy to use, even with chilled fingers. A well-chosen sleep system, for example, can mean the difference between tossing and turning and waking up refreshed for the day ahead. The right clothing—think moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and a weatherproof shell—keeps you comfortable whether you’re hiking through a sun-dappled forest or huddled around a camp stove as the evening cools. For meals, lightweight cookware and a dependable stove make it easy to enjoy a hot dinner, even miles from the nearest road. Don’t forget the little things, either: a first-aid kit for peace of mind, a map and compass for navigation, and a multi-tool for unexpected fixes. These essentials aren’t just for solo trekkers; they also make thoughtful, practical gifts for anyone who loves exploring, from seasoned backpackers to families planning their first overnight trip together.

Autumn overnight hikes invite a special kind of camaraderie—sharing stories by lantern light, listening to the nighttime sounds of the woods, and waking up to crisp air and golden leaves. Packing smart means you’re ready for whatever the trail brings, whether that’s a sudden shower or a chilly breeze. Essentials like water purification tools, sun protection, and insect repellent help you stay comfortable and safe, while items like camp clothes and a dedicated set of dry socks can make camp feel like home. And as you plan your trip, remember that packing out everything you bring in, including waste and food scraps, helps keep the outdoors pristine for everyone. If your journey is stretching beyond a single night, or you’re curious about what else to bring for longer adventures, you’ll find more ideas and recommendations on our Long Hike Essentials page. Every overnight hike is a chance to create lasting memories, and with the right essentials, you’ll be well-prepared for every mile, meal, and moment along the way.

FAQs

Packing efficiently starts with laying out all your essentials and prioritizing items that serve more than one purpose. Use packing cubes or stuff sacks to organize gear, and keep frequently used items like snacks, a headlamp, or a rain jacket near the top of your pack. Distribute weight evenly, placing heavier items close to your back and centered for better balance on the trail.

To keep your gear dry, line your backpack with a waterproof liner or use dry bags for sensitive items like your sleeping bag and clothing. Pack your shelter and rain gear where you can reach them quickly, and always set up camp on higher ground to avoid pooling water if it rains overnight.

Simple, calorie-dense meals are best for overnight hikes. Options like dehydrated meals, instant oatmeal, pasta, or rice dishes are easy to prepare with a lightweight stove. Bring along trail mix, energy bars, and nut butters for quick snacks. Don’t forget a hot drink mix to enjoy around the campfire on cool evenings.

Store food in a sealed bag or container, and if you’re in bear country, hang it from a tree or use a bear canister at least 200 feet from your sleeping area. This helps protect both wildlife and your supplies. Even outside bear territory, keeping food securely stored prevents visits from smaller critters.

Bringing a lightweight camp chair or using a folded sleeping pad as a seat can make relaxing at camp much more enjoyable. Change into dry camp clothes and warm socks, and set up your sleeping area as soon as you arrive so you can settle in before dark. Little comforts like a favorite mug or a packable pillow can make a big difference in your overall experience.

It's time to upgrade your browser

Overnight Hike Essentials