What to Pack for an Autumn Day Hike

Autumn hiking is unpredictable. You might start under clear skies and end the day soaked through and slipping down a muddy slope. But if you’ve packed smart, that won’t matter. The colder months are some of the best for getting out. Quieter trails, fewer midges, better views. You just need to be prepared. Here's what to bring on an autumn day hike so you stay warm, dry and comfortable from start to finish.

1. Clothing Layers

Conditions change fast in autumn. It might start sunny and end in sideways rain. Wet clothes and cold winds don’t mix well, so layering is the simplest way to stay warm, dry and adaptable.
You don’t need head-to-toe technical kit, but what you wear makes a difference. Start with a breathable base layer. Synthetic or merino wool works best. Cotton holds moisture and stays wet, which gets cold quickly. Add a fleece or insulated jacket, then finish with a waterproof outer layer with a proper hood.
Lightweight hiking trousers are fine for most routes. If it’s cold or wet underfoot, softshell or water-resistant trousers help. Spare socks are worth the pack space.
Good footwear matters. Waterproof walking boots or trail shoes are ideal for autumn hikes, especially with mud, wet leaves and slippery slopes. Make sure they’re worn in, have decent grip and don’t hold water. Salomon, Merrell, Inov-8, La Sportiva, and Scarpa all offer solid options, depending on how technical your routes are.

Not sure where to get this kit?

Outdoor retailers like Cotswold Outdoor, Blacks, and Go Outdoors all carry good options across a range of prices. Look at brands like Rab, Montane, Berghaus, Craghoppers or Columbia for layering pieces that are reliable in UK weather.

2. Pack and Storage

A 20 to 30-litre daypack is enough. How you organise it matters more than the size.
Dry bags are one of the most useful bits of kit for autumn hiking. They keep spare layers dry, protect phones and cameras, and help you separate anything wet, dirty or muddy at the end of the day. Use one for clothes, one for food, one for tech. They're also useful for keeping spare socks or gloves clean and easy to find, instead of everything getting jumbled in your pack.
A compact quick-dry towel is always worth carrying. If you're caught in rain, crossing streams, or want to sit down somewhere wet, it’s light, fast-drying and compact.

3. Food and Drink

Colder weather burns more energy. Pack food that’s easy to eat on the move. Oat bars, trail mix, flapjacks or sandwiches all work.
Hot food makes a big difference. Bring a thermal mug with tea or coffee and a food flask with soup, curry or stew if you’re out longer.
Carry 1 to 2 litres of water depending on distance. A soft bottle or hydration bladder is easier than stopping to unscrew a bottle each time. If you're walking near natural water sources, the Lifesystems Water Purifier Bottle lets you top up from streams safely without carrying extra weight.

4. Navigation

Good navigation is more than just following a path. In autumn, low light, fog and fallen leaves can make routes harder to follow. Don’t rely on your phone.
Bring a map and compass and know how to use them. If you're using digital tools, apps like OS Maps, Komoot or AllTrails are helpful, but always have a physical backup.
Keep your phone in a waterproof pouch or dry bag. Cold weather drains batteries quickly. A power bank helps, but paper doesn’t run out.
Planning ahead helps too. Use OS Maps or Komoot to check elevation, distance and terrain. Avoid waterlogged routes or steep descents if conditions are poor.

5. Staying Safe

You might not need most of this kit. But if something does go wrong, it can make a big difference.

• First aid kit – the most common injuries are blisters, sprains and cuts. A small kit with essentials can save your day. The most valuable bit of kit you’ll carry and hope you’ll never have to use.
• Torch or head torch – sunset can creep up on you, especially in wooded or hilly areas. A torch is essential, even for half-day walks.
• Whistle – if you need help, a whistle is easier and louder than shouting. Especially useful if you're walking solo or off-grid.
  
• Glow marker – a small, reusable way to keep your pack visible in low light. Useful if you’re walking in a group.
  
• Hand warmers – easy to forget, but great for sudden temperature drops, especially if you stop for lunch or get wet.
  
• Power bank – cold weather drains batteries quickly. A compact charger helps keep your phone usable for maps or emergencies Some kit now does both. The Lifesystems Dual Palm Handwarmers, for example, also work as a power bank, so you can warm your hands and top up your phone at the same time.
  
• Trekking poles – not just for big hikes. They help with balance on muddy or uneven trails and take pressure off knees on descents. Look at brands like Black Diamond, Leki, Montane or Komperdell for quality options. The new Lifesystems trekking poles are lightweight, adjustable and easy to carry. A good choice if you’re looking for reliable performance without the price tag.
• Emergency shelter or thermal blanket – worth packing on longer or remote hikes. The Lifesystems Survival Shelter 2 is compact and provides quick shelter in bad conditions.

Let someone know your planned route and expected return time, especially if you're walking solo or heading somewhere quiet.

6. Small Extras That Make a Big Difference

These aren't essentials, but they're useful more often than not. Bring what makes sense for your route, weather and group.

• Spare gloves
• Lip balm and sun cream
• Toilet paper and resealable bag
• Tissues or wipes
• Lightweight sit mat
• Small towel or cloth
• Rubbish bag for taking waste home

If you're stopping often, out for more than a few hours, or walking in exposed places, these bits are worth throwing in.

Final Thoughts

Packing for an autumn day hike is about staying warm, staying dry and thinking ahead. Layers, waterproof storage and a few extras will keep you out longer and help you enjoy the day, whatever the weather.
Most of this kit will serve you through winter too. Once it’s in your bag, it’ll probably stay there for good.

Browse hiking gear at Lifeventure