Best Hiking Gear for Beginner Hikers: Everything You Need for a Day Hike

by | May 2022 | 0 comments

*All photos are protected by copyright and the property of Briana Nickas unless they are stock photos or otherwise noted.

Updated on 05/14/2023

Are you thinking of heading out for a hike but youโ€™re wondering what the best hiking gear for beginners is that you should bring along?

Hitting the trails for a day hike is one of the best ways to escape to the outdoors and enjoy nature while getting some exercise in.

Whether youโ€™re staying close to home or venturing further out, doing an easy hike or summiting a mountain, being prepared with the hiking gear essentials is a must!

Letโ€™s face it, nature is unpredictable, and you never know what could happen. Planning ahead could save your life or at least save you from having a miserable hike.

So once youโ€™ve figured out which trail you want to hike, you need to make sure you have all the hiking gear you need for a safe and enjoyable hiking adventure.

Not sure where to start? Donโ€™t worry! Iโ€™ve put together a list of the best hiking gear for beginners you should bring and wear on every trail.

Iโ€™ve also included a free printable Hiking Gear Checklist for you!

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Heading out for a hike but wondering what hiking gear you should bring along? Hereโ€™s a list of the best hiking gear for beginners with the hiking essentials for every trail. #hikinggear #hikingforbeginners #hikingessentials #hiking Click To Tweet
Briana Hiking on Soldier Pass Trail in Sedona
Me hiking in Sedona with my hiking gear

Best Hiking Gear for Beginners

When it comes to hiking gear, itโ€™s best to start with the basics. So letโ€™s talk about beginner hiking essentials. 

These are the must-have items that are good to have on every hike. Then weโ€™ll get to the other best hiking gear to bring along.

When doing a day hike, you want to keep your pack as light as possible while having everything you need. So start with the 10 hiking essentials and then add any other items that are must-haves for you.

On a budget? Check out REIโ€™s Used Gear Shop! When you join the REI Co-op Membership for $30 just once, you get to enjoy lifetime membership! 

And as one of the benefits, members can shop and trade in gently used gear in addition to rewards, discounts, and special offers.

The 10 Hiking Gear Essentials

There are 10 items that have been deemed โ€œhiking essentialsโ€ in the world of hiking. Even if youโ€™re just doing a short hike close by, itโ€™s better to be on the safe side and have this hiking gear with you.

The 10 hiking essentials are all about being prepared and can be the difference between an enjoyable or miserable hike or even life and death.

1. Navigation

AllTrails App for Hiking

AllTrails App

The AllTrails App is one of my absolute favorite hiking tools! Itโ€™s awesome for finding trails to hike. You can filter trails based on their location, level of difficulty, length in mileage, elevation gain, rating, activity type, and more!

It also usually gives details about the trail, such as whether or not thereโ€™s a parking fee. And you can check reviews for tips from other hikers like the current trail conditions.

Some trails arenโ€™t easy to find. But with the AllTrails App, you can use the Directions feature to sync with Apple Maps or Google Maps for turn-by-turn navigation right to the trailhead.

I also love the Navigate feature, which shows the trail (where you want to be) as well as your route (where youโ€™re actually hiking) to make sure youโ€™re not veering off the trail.

It also tracks your time, distance, and elevation. This is a great way to see how far youโ€™ve hiked and gauge how much further you have to go.

And the best part (aside from the fact that itโ€™s FREE) is that you can use it in Airplane mode, so you donโ€™t drain your phone battery while youโ€™re hiking. Love, love, love the free AllTrails App!

Thereโ€™s also a super affordable AllTrails+ version that will give you access to even more features like being able to download maps, get off-route notifications, keep family or friends informed with Lifeline, and more.

Try a 7-day free trial of AllTrails+!

You may also like:ย The Best Gifts for Hikers That Theyโ€™ll Actually Use

GPS

If youโ€™re on a short, popular hike with a good amount of traffic, GPS may not be necessary. But itโ€™s still handy to have.

And if youโ€™re going to be hiking in remote areas or the backcountry, GPS is a must!

This compact Garmin InReach Mini Satellite Communicator includes GPS. With a monthly satellite subscription, you can 2-way text with family or friends and trigger an interactive SOS to search and rescue.

Having a satellite communicator could save your life in the case of an emergency if youโ€™re in an area with no cell service. Wondering what other GPS units are available? Check out REIโ€™s GPS options.

Compass

Technology isnโ€™t always reliable (#amiright). So itโ€™s a good idea to bring a compass and paper map as back-up.

Not sure how to use a map or compass? No worries! REI offers Navigation Classes for different skill levels and scenarios.

2. Hydration

Water is an absolute necessity for hiking! A good rule of thumb is to bring 1 liter or roughly 32 oz of water for every 2 hours of moderate hiking in moderate temperatures.

For more strenuous hikes or higher temperatures, you may need more. Itโ€™s better to err on the side of caution and bring extra water along with a water filter as a back-up if you need to purify water.

Use the AllTrails app to check the trail stats, such as the distance, difficulty level, and elevation gain to gauge if youโ€™ll need even more water. Start with an easy, short hike on gentle terrain with a minimal increase in elevation.

As you hike more, youโ€™ll get a good idea of your average pace (i.e. how long it takes you to do a hike) based on the different trail variables. Below are some options for water bottles and filters.

Keep in mind that plastic will be the most lightweight option but could potentially leach toxic chemicals into your water. Stainless steel is the healthier option but is weighs more.

3. Nutrition

Nutrition is important to keep your energy levels up. Bring calorie-dense snacks that have a long shelf life and donโ€™t require any cooking. Think energy bars, trail mix, granola, jerky, nuts, and dried fruit.

I try to stick to organic foods and look for low to no added sugar. For beef jerky, I recommend grass-fed, pasture-raised.

You may also like: Top 5 Outdoor Activities in Colorado

Always check the label and do your research on the ingredients to decide which ingredients youโ€™re comfortable with and which ones youโ€™re not okay with.

For example, did you know that arsenic has been found in rice syrups? Other rice products like rice flour has also been shown to contain arsenic.

Below are organic options on Amazon along with some gluten-free and vegan options too. Prefer to shop at REI? Check out all of REIโ€™s organic snacks!

Pack extra food in case youโ€™re out longer than expected. And please be sure to follow the Leave No Trace principles by bringing any wrappers and trash with you.

4. Extra Layers

Weather can change quickly and without warning. Or you could end up having to spend the night out in the wilderness due to an injury.

So think about what you would need to stay warm and dry in those situations. Itโ€™s a good idea to bring along extra layers that include moisture-wicking and quick-drying items, extra socks, and rain gear.

As for the basic what to wear hiking items, keep reading!

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5. Sun Protection

Did you know that UV radiation intensity increases with elevation? According to the World Health Organization, UV levels rise by roughly 10% for every 1,000 meters (3,281 feet) in elevation.

So be sure to wear sun protective clothing and gear, such as a hat, a face gaiter, and sunglasses. You should also use sunscreen and consider using a lip balm with an SPF.

I like to use EWGโ€™s Skin Deep Database and the Think Dirty app to check product ratings for ingredient safety and try to stay at a 2 or lower (the lower, the better with 0 being the best).

For more information, see the EWGโ€™s Guide to Sunscreens. I recommend using one with non-nano zinc oxide. Here are some helpful articles that outline why non-nano is better than nano zinc oxide:

You can find some non-nano zinc oxide sunscreen options below!

Sunscreens

EWG rating: 1
Think Dirty rating: 0-3 (for beeswax)

EWG rating: 1
Think Dirty rating: 0-3 (for beeswax)

Sunscreen + Bug Repellant EWG rating: N/A
Think Dirty rating: 0-3 (for beeswax and essential oils)

EWG rating: 1
Think Dirty rating: 3

EWG rating: 1
Think Dirty rating: N/A

EWG rating: 1
Think Dirty rating: N/A

EWG rating: 1
Think Dirty rating: N/A

EWG rating: 2
Think Dirty rating: 0

EWG rating: 2
Think Dirty rating: 4

Natural Lip Balm with SPF

6. First Aid Kit

Be prepared for potential injuries on the trail by having a first aid kit with with you. Youโ€™ll find some options on Amazon below, including some for your dog if you like to bring your pup along on hikes!

And for even more options, check out all the first aid kits on REI.

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7. Lighting

If you like to start early before the sun rises (good for you!) or you get stuck on the trail after dark, youโ€™ll want to have a light source like a headlamp and/or flashlight.

Headlamps are great because theyโ€™re hands-free making them easy to see the trail if youโ€™re hiking in the dark. And flashlights can be used to easily direct light elsewhere.

Look for something compact and lightweight. And if itโ€™s battery-operated, be sure to bring spare batteries. There are a bunch of lighting options on REI!

8. Multi-Tool

A knife is a handy tool to have hiking and can serve many different purposes from making kindling to food preparation to gear repair and more.

But why not take it to the next level with a multi-tool? A multi-tool includes a knife along with other helpful tools, such as a screwdriver, can opener, scissors, etc. Check out multi-tools at REI.

9. Fire-Starting Gear

With all the tragic man-made fires that happen, I have to preface these fire starter items by saying please USE RESPONSIBLY AND WITH CAUTION!

In case of an emergency, you need to have the tools to be able to start a fire and keep it going. A fire can be used to keep you warm or as an emergency signal.

Make sure you have waterproof matches. Youโ€™ll also want to have a firestarter to help jumpstart a fire. This is crucial in wet conditions. Take a look at REIโ€™s fire-starting gear for some examples.

10. Emergency Shelter

If you get injured or stranded on a hike, youโ€™ll want an emergency shelter to protect you from the elements and keep you warm.

An emergency space blanket is a must. Itโ€™s a lightweight and compact blanket made of a thin, heat-reflective material. Plus, space blankets have many other uses beyond being a blanket.

For more emergency shelter options, be sure to peruse REIโ€™s Emergency and Survival category. And remember, always be prepared!

TIP: If youโ€™re going to be hiking in a remote area or backpacking for an extended time, be sure to inform someone of your hiking plans, including the trail and when youโ€™re planning on returning.

You may also like: Top 5 Best Hikes in Sedona, AZ You Wonโ€™t Want to Miss

Must-Have Hiking Gear for a Day Hike

In addition to the 10 hiking essentials above, thereโ€™s some other hiking gear thatโ€™s essential or at least helpful to have on the trail.

Try AllTrails+ for free!

11. Backpack

First of all, a backpack is a must! Youโ€™ll need a backpack to carry all the hiking essentials along with any other gear you want to bring along on your hikes.

When deciding which backpack to get, look for one thatโ€™s lightweight, breathable, and evenly distributes the weight on your shoulders for a comfortable hike.

Iโ€™m currently using a Cotopaxi Luzon 18L Daypack and love the size along with how lightweight and comfortable it is. But truth be told, I wish it had more pockets for easier access to things.

Here are some other popular backpack choices, including affordable options:

Budget-Friendly Backpacks

Osprey Backpacks

There are more Osprey womenโ€™s hiking packs and Osprey menโ€™s hiking packs on Amazon. You can also find more brands and options for hiking backpacks for day hikes on REI.

12. Phone Carrier

I like having a waist pack for easy access to things I use throughout my hikes like my phone and lip balm. My hubby makes fun of my โ€œfanny pack,โ€ but I donโ€™t care. I adore the functionality!

There are plenty of basic waist packs to choose from. But I prefer to use an EMF-blocking waist pack since I keep my phone in it and donโ€™t want harmful EMF radiation near my lady parts.

If you donโ€™t want to keep your phone in a waist pack, another option is to use a phone lanyard for easy access.

13. Trekking Poles

You may not always need trekking poles (aka hiking poles). But if you do end up needing them, youโ€™ll be happy to have them. And if youโ€™re going to be doing any winter hikes, trekking poles are a must-have!

They give you more stability. This is really helpful when going downhill, especially if itโ€™s rocky, slick, or thereโ€™s loose terrain. Youโ€™ll also want them for stability if you need to cross a creek on slippery rocks.

Trekking poles also help reduce protect your knees by reducing strain on your joints. And I like using them to also incorporate my arms and shoulders for a full-body workout.

There are tons of trekking poles to choose from. So if youโ€™re feeling overwhelmed, REI has a great article on how to choose and use trekking poles.

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14. Electronic Devices & Accessories

I know, I knowโ€ฆ you want to get out in nature to get away from electronics. Right on! But itโ€™s still helpful to have a few devices with you on a hike.

Portable Charger / Power Bank

A portable power bank is an absolute hiking must-have item! I tend to take entirely too many photos and videos with my phone. So my battery doesnโ€™t last long.

Having a portable phone charger is so handy to have on hand! You can also get a hard travel case for the portable phone charger to carry it with the charger cables.

Lightweight Camera

When Iโ€™m hiking, I love exploring nature and capturing it by taking photos of everything! So a good quality, compact, and lightweight camera was a necessity for me.

After countless hours of research, I decided a mirrorless camera would be the best option for me, and I ended up with the awesome Canon EOS M50

It takes great photos, weighs practically nothing, and is a convenient size perfect for hiking. โ If youโ€™re a snap-happy photo-taker, youโ€™ll be thrilled to have this camera on a scenic hike.

You can also get a wireless camera remotespare batteries, and/or lens filters to take your camera to the next level.

Lightweight Tripod

I scoured the internet, searching high and low for a lightweight (yet decent quality) tripod that I could hike with without being weighed down. After searching extensively, I finally came across the ideal lightweight tripod weighing just slightly over 1 lb!

This tripod only holds a camera weighing up to 4.4 lbs, but lucky for me, my Canon EOS M50 camera weighs much less than that!โ  The total weight for both my camera and tripod is just barely over 2 lbs! Plus, it also works with smartphones. 

Wanna know what the best part is though? This tripod is super affordable!โ  Sure itโ€™s not top-of-the-line quality, but it works great! Itโ€™s the perfect lightweight tripod for hiking adventures.

Selfie Stick

If you want to keep it simple and just use your phone to take photos or videos on your hikes, a simple selfie stick that doubles as a small tripod might be the way to go.

Selfie sticks are super compact and lightweight, making them perfect to bring along in your hiking pack.

GoPro

If you live for adventure and want to document your hikes, you might want to consider taking a GoPro on the trails.

The GoPro HERO8 Camera is a waterproof action camera you can use to take videos and shots of all your outdoor hiking adventures. Photos are great, but video is next level!

Extra Hiking Gear

Beyond the 10 hiking essentials and other must-have hiking gear listed above, there are a few extra things that can come in handy on your hike.

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15. National Parks Pass

National Parks feature some of the best trails around! So if youโ€™re planning on hiking in any National Parks, be sure to pick up an annual America the Beautiful Pass first.

It will give you access to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites in the United States, including all the National Parks for you to explore their trails! This Pass pays for itself after the first few National Parks and is well worth it!

16. Bug Spray

Depending on where you are hiking, bug spray might be more of a hiking essential than an extra item. But either way, itโ€™s good to have some on you, especially if you suffer from skeeter syndrome like I do (itโ€™s a real thing)!

I donโ€™t recommend using any products with the chemical DEET. Thereโ€™s been research showing that DEET is a neurotoxin as well as other research showing additional health concerns with the use of DEET.

While the EPA and other โ€œexpertsโ€ have deemed DEET โ€œsafeโ€ to use, I donโ€™t trust them. And I donโ€™t want to take that risk. So I prefer to stick to natural, chemical-free, non-toxic products whenever possible.

Badger also has a natural Anti-Bug Sunscreen for a bug repellent + mineral sunscreen in one as well as an After-Bug Balm Stick for anti-itch bug bite Relief.

Another all-natural bug spray option is Primally Pureโ€™s non-toxic Mosquito Repellent Spray.

17. Bear Spray

Like bug spray, you may not always need bear spray since bears donโ€™t live everywhere. But if youโ€™re hiking in bear country in North America or globally, bear spray is essential!

And if you havenโ€™t noticed the theme of this post yet, itโ€™s all about being prepared. If youโ€™re concerned about having to carry something else and running out of space in your hiking pack, this one comes with a handy carrying holster.

18. Hand Sanitizer

Some trailheads have bathrooms, but most donโ€™t have soap or even water to wash your hands. So I like to carry hand sanitizer with me in case I need to go to the bathroom while hiking or my hands get sticky/dirty from hiking snacks, tree sap, dirt, a runny nose, etc.

Here are some natural hand sanitizer sprays without toxic ingredients like chemicals, artificial fragrances, parabens, or phthalates:

19. Bathroom Gear

Speaking of going to the bathroom, there may come a time when you need to relieve yourself while out on a hike.

Please be sure to follow the Leave No Trace principles and bury solid waste while packing out toilet paper and hygiene products.

Wondering how to go about doing that? REI has gear for all of your hiking bathroom needs.

You may also like: Top 5 Hikes in Zion National Park for Hiking Enthusiasts

20. Tissue

My nose always seems to run when Iโ€™m hiking. I blame gravity. Looking down at the trail to watch my step gives me a runny nose.

And it runs even more during winter hikes when itโ€™s cold out. So I like to carry a travel pack of unscented, non-lotion tissues.

21. Extra Batteries

Donโ€™t run out of juice, electrical juice that is! Be sure to bring some spare batteries for your headlamp, flashlight, GPS, or any other electric devices you take on a hiking trek.

22. Whistle

Wondering why you should bring a whistle on your hike? An emergency whistle can be used for SOS signaling or even if you just get separated from your hiking buddies.

23. Trash Bag

When youโ€™re hiking out in nature (and always), be sure to follow the Leave No Trace principles and pack out any waste with a compostable trash bag or ideally a reusable trash bag (see options below).

Sadly, not everyone follows the Leave No Trace principles. Please donโ€™t be one of them. You can also use a trash bag to pick up other trash you come across on trails.

I know what youโ€™re thinking. We shouldnโ€™t have to clean up other peoplesโ€™ mess. But we can also do our part to leave places better than we found them. ๐Ÿ˜‰

24. Dog Waste Bags & Waste Carrying Pouch

If youโ€™re going to be hiking with your pup, please use compostable dog waste bags to dispose of their waste and pack it out as well.

You can even use one of the following carriers to hold the waste while youโ€™re hiking (some are even odor-blocking!).

Looking for more hiking accessories for your fur-baby? Check out all of REIโ€™s dog gear for hiking!

You may also like: Soldier Pass Trail in Sedona: How To Hike to the Secret Cave

What to Wear Hiking for a Day Hike

When it comes to what to wear hiking, you want breathable, durable, and, most importantly, comfortable clothing.

Keep in mind that weather can change. So these are the basic items to wear (or at least bring along) on a hike.

24. Hiking Boots

High quality hiking boots are absolutely essential! They can make or break your hike. So be sure to invest in a good pair of hiking boots. 

Be sure to wear boots with good traction as well as ankle support. You donโ€™t want to roll your ankle halfway into your hike.

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I also recommend finding waterproof hiking boots. That way, theyโ€™ll be versatile if you come across wet conditions, such as stream-crossing, rain, or snow.

Iโ€™m absolutely obsessed with my waterproof HOKA ONE ONE hiking boots! They check off all the boxes by being super comfy, having amazing grip, and being waterproof. But they seem to be discontinued. Boo!

For easy hikes on smooth trails with little to no elevation gain, boots probably arenโ€™t necessary. Instead, a good pair of hiking shoes like sneakers or trail running shoes should be sufficient.

Below are some options on Amazon. For even more hiking shoes to choose from, check out REIโ€™s hiking footwear selection.

25. Merino Wool Socks

Merino wool is a top choice amongst hikers for hiking apparel. Unlike regular wool that can be itchy, Merino wool is thinner and softer, making it more comfortable to wear.

It regulates body temperature, insulating when itโ€™s cold and moisture-wicking when itโ€™s warm to keep you cool and dry. This makes it great for layering. Merino wool is also odor-resistant. Score!

Here are a few choices from Amazon. But thereโ€™s a huge selection of Merino wools socks on REI!

26. Pants

When youโ€™re hiking, itโ€™s usually best to keep your legs covered by wearing pants. This protects your legs from the sun as well as from getting bug bites or scratches from brush.

But you want a pair of pants that are comfortable, easy to move around in, and wick moisture, keeping you warm without being too hot. Convertible pants can be a good option. They offer a zipper to remove the bottom half of the pants and convert them into shorts if you get hot.

Cargo pants are another comfy option. And the pockets are a bonus! I typically stick with leggings though. Theyโ€™re what Iโ€™m most comfortable in since theyโ€™re stretchy and give a wide range of motion.

In fact, I am LOVING these resistance leggings by SweetFlexx with built-in resistance bands to take my hikes to the next level! Use code โ€œnext.destinationโ€ for 15% OFF some for yourself!

For more pants to choose from, take a look at REIโ€™s moisture-wicking pants with sun-protective fabric.

27. Base Layers

This is the first article of clothing youโ€™ll put on to go for a hike. Depending on the weather, your base layer could range from a tank top to a merino wool long sleeve shirt.

28. Outer Layers

After your base layers, come the outer layers. Itโ€™s all about layering when it comes to hiking. It could be chilly if you start out early in the morning, then warm up as the sun rises overhead.

Add an elevation gain, and youโ€™ll be breaking a sweat in no time. So you want to be able to take layers off when you heat up and put them back on when you cool off.

You can start with a long-sleeve layer or a jacket. Use a lightweight one in warmer weather or a heavier one like fleece in colder temps.

Try AllTrails+ for Free!

29. Rain Jacket or Poncho

Be sure to check the weather report beforehand. If thereโ€™s a chance of rain in the forecast, bring a waterproof rain jacket or poncho.

If you can find a rain jacket with Gore-Tex, even better. Gore-Tex is a lightweight, waterproof fabric thatโ€™s also breathable.

Itโ€™s a good idea to keep a compact rain jacket or poncho in your hiking pack at all times. Because you never know when the weather will shift.

In Colorado, weather changes quickly. In the summer, we get afternoon rain and thunderstorms. So we make it a goal to get down the mountain before that happens.

A rain jacket or poncho can also be useful if youโ€™ll be hiking to a waterfall. That way you can get up close and personal with the raging fall but not get soaked by the spray.

If youโ€™re feeling overwhelmed by all the different rain jackets out there, check out REIโ€™s Best Rain Jackets of 2022: Staff Picks.

30. Hat

Youโ€™ll definitely want to wear a hat while hiking for sun protection to shield your eyes and face from the sun. You might be able to get away with wearing a baseball hat. But the better option is a broad-brimmed hat to also protect your neck.

Look for a hiking hat with UV protection thatโ€™s breathable as well as moisture-wicking and quick-drying. If you can find one thatโ€™s machine washable, woo hoo! This one checks all the boxes!

31. Gloves

If youโ€™ll be hiking in cooler temps or doing a winter hike, youโ€™ll be happy to have gloves to keep your hands warm.

Consider touch-screen compatible gloves if you like to use your phone to take photos so you donโ€™t have to constantly take your gloves off. Youโ€™re welcome! ๐Ÿ˜‰

You may also like: 3 Reasons Why Page, AZ Needs to Be on Your Bucket List + an Epic 3-Day Itinerary

Wrapping Up the Best Hiking Gear

Gearing up for a hike doesnโ€™t have to be overwhelming. Just start with some of the must-have hiking gear for beginner hikers to have a safe and enjoyable hike: 

  • the 10 hiking essentials
  • a good backpack
  • high quality hiking boots
  • comfortable clothing and extra layers
  • a portable charger

Then you can gradually build your hiking arsenal with other helpful gear. As you do more and more hikes, youโ€™ll figure out what else would be helpful to have.

Are you wondering who to hike with and looking for some new hiking buddies? Or perhaps youโ€™re interested in learning about backpacking. REI offers hiking classes and events!

Leave a question or comment here!

To make sure you have everything you need on the trail, grab your FREE Hiking Gear Checklist!

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Best Hiking Gear for Beginner Hikers
Best Hiking Gear for Beginner Hikers
Best Hiking Gear for Beginner Hikers
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This post may contain affiliate links or links to Amazon. If you choose to purchase anything through these links, I may earn a commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you for supporting me and my blog. Youโ€™re the best! See the full disclosure for details.

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Briana Nickas of Next Destination Unknown

Behind the Blog

Hey there! I’m Briana, a blogger, hiker, traveller, RVer, photo-taker, and National Parks lover who is passionate about exploring the great outdoors while practicing clean living for a healthier lifestyle to continue doing the things I live for. My goal is to inspire others to live a life focused on wellbeing and wandering. Join me!

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