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Your ultimate packing guide to summer hiking essentials for the UK…
Summer hiking in the UK is always a rewarding experience, with breathtaking coastal paths, scenic countryside trails, and rugged mountain landscapes. But the ever-changing British weather and varied terrain mean that choosing the right gear is essential for staying comfortable and prepared.
Whether you’re tackling hill climbs in the Lake District or chasing sea views on the South West Coast Path, having the right equipment can make all the difference. This guide covers everything you need for a successful summer hike, including my tried-and-tested product recommendations. So you can stay cool, comfortable, and ready for adventure!
Summer Hiking Essentials for the UK
Full disclosure, some (not all) of the items recommended below were sent to me for free to test out. However, no one asked me to write this post and all opinions are 100% my own. All products here are ones I use regularly and would absolutely buy again.
1. Lightweight Walking Shoes
Hiking boots can be a bit too heavy and hot in summer, and unless it’s been raining a lot, the paths usually aren’t muddy enough to need them. Hybrid walking shoes, multi-sports shoes, or trail running shoes are a much better option at this time of year as they’re more lightweight and breathable.
I’ve been using my Columbia OutDry Trail Shoes for 9 years and they’re still going strong – the latest version is the Columbia Peakfreak 2 OutDry. They’re low-rise, waterproof, breathable, and absolutely ideal for summer hiking.
FYI – if you’re hiking up mountains or tackling a particularly challenging climb, sturdy hiking boots are likely the best option.
2. Layered & Breathable Clothing
- Look for breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics that will absorb sweat fast and keep you cool. A moisture-wicking gym top or sports t-shirt is perfect – the Mountain Warehouse Endurance top is ideal.
- Keep your shoulders covered if you burn easily – vest tops are cooler on very hot days, but remember the sun cream!
- Avoid black and dark colours as these get hotter quicker and attract mosquitoes.
- Aim for lightweight layers that you can add or remove as necessary. On very sunny days, you’ll be fine in just a t-shirt, but it’s always worth popping a lightweight outer layer in your bag just in case. The UK’s weather can be changeable, and the coast paths can be particularly windy. A very thin wool jumper, fleece, or moisture-wicking zipped jacket like the Mountain Warehouse IsoCool Dynamic Chakra is perfect.
3. Convertible trousers
Again, adjustable clothing is key for summer hiking. Find a decent pair of lightweight walking trousers. Convertible trousers have a zip at the knee so they can be adjusted into shorts when it’s particularly hot.
4. Wool Hiking Socks
Merino wool hiking socks are the best for summer (and all year round) because they keep your feet cool, wick moisture, and provide padding to keep you comfy and help prevent blisters. Darn Tough hiking socks are the best on the market – I absolutely swear by them!
They’re thermo-regulating, moisture-wicking, and anti-microbial (which helps keep them smell-free!). They also come in a range of fun colours and designs, as well as different sizes and weights to suit different activities. For summer hiking, the Lightweight Micro Crew Sock is ideal (and the Critter Club designs are so cute!).
5. Trekking Poles
Trekking poles can be a great addition to your hiking kit, especially if you plan on tackling the UK’s mountains, hills, and coast paths. They help with balance and stability, which is particularly handy on uneven terrain, and reduce the impact on your knees, especially on descents.
LEKI are better known for their ski poles, but did you know they also have a fantastic range of trekking poles? I’ve been testing out the LEKI Cressida on the South West Coast Path, which has a lot of steep climbs and loose gravel paths – so trekking poles are a must! They’re super lightweight (only 237g) and are collapsible at the click of a button for easy storage. Plus, they’re specifically designed for women and have a smaller, ergonomic grip which is super comfy.
6. Water Bottle
The most important thing to remember on your summer hikes is to stay hydrated, especially on very hot days! Bring an insulated water bottle to keep your water as cold as possible For shorter hikes, one large bottle should be enough – I love the Hydro Flask 32oz Travel Bottle Wide Flex Straw. It holds plenty of water for a short hike and the built-in straw makes it easy to sip whilst walking. Plus, they have a fun range of new colours for spring/summer – I love the Aloe!
Alternatively, a filter bottle like the ones from LifeStraw or Water-to-Go means you can safely fill up your bottle from any freshwater source during your hike, so you can keep your water supply topped up. Read more in my Water-to-Go review and use promo code ELUX15 to save 15%!.
7. Sun Protection
Even on cloudy days, you can still take sun damage – so make sure you slap on that suncream and keep covered up!
- Sunhat
- Sunglasses
- Suncream – if you have dry, sensitive skin like me, I highly recommend the COSRX Aloe Soothing SP50 Sun Cream.
8. Raincoat (just in case)
The UK’s summer weather is unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to pack an emergency raincoat. A packable jacket that can be folded into its own small bag, like this one from Tresspass, is ideal. Alternatively, pack a poncho – but stick to reusable ones like this to avoid single-use plastic!
Top Tip: If you’re carrying a backpack, make sure you have a waterproof cover for it to stop everything inside getting soaked in an unexpected downpour!
UK Summer Hiking Essentials Checklist
- Lightweight hybrid walking or multi-sport shoes
- Breathable, moisture-wicking sports top
- Light outer layer such as a moisture-wicking jacket or fleece.
- Convertible walking trousers
- Merino wool hiking socks
- Trekking poles
- Water bottle
- Sun hat
- Sunglasses
- Suncream
- Raincoat
Is there anything you’d add to this list of summer hiking essentials? Let me know in the comments!
