Hip Belt
• Essential for backpacks to properly transfer weight from your back to your waist

Size
• Backpack capacity is measured in liters (the backpack volume)
• 6-10 liters: Compact backpacks to hold the essentials
• 10-30 liters: Common size for dayhikes
• 30-50 liters: Large daypacks for family use
• 50+ liters: Multi-day hiking backpacks

The Narrows Dry Bags
• Waterproof backpack or dry bag preferred for the Narrows trail (you are likely to fall into the river at some point)
• At least carry a small internal dry bag for electronics and wallet

Stainless Steel
• Keeps water cold for long periods and doesn't produce condensation
• Dents rather than cracks when dropped
• Heavy compared to plastic
• Tends to be more expensive

Plastic
• Lightweight and simple
• Porous material can retain an aftertaste from non-water drinks

Why No CamelBacks (bladders)
• Complicated to use, prone to leaks, difficult to clean and refill, and you cannot see water usage
• Tubes will freeze and crack in extreme cold
• Most experienced hikers don't use bladders

Canyoneering Boot + Waterproof Sock Setup
• Best for the Narrows trail (you will be hiking through a river)
• Preferred due to ankle protection, slip resistance, and performance when submerged in water
• Rental options available at Zion Outfitter

Hiking Boot + Hiking Sock Setup
• Best for all Zion trails except the Narrows
• Likely to result in discomfort/blisters if submerged

High Cut vs Low Cut Shoes
• High cut preferred in Zion
• High Cut: Prevents rolled ankles and provide protection from brush/rocks. Best in rocky, steep terrain
• Low Cut: Ideal for flat, hot, or sandy areas where ankle support is less critical

Warm Weather Setup (June-September)
• Short Sleeve Shirt + Shorts
• Light-weight, moisture-wicking, quick-drying clothing is preferred
• Avoid cotton for synthetic fabrics (polyester/nylon/spandex)
• There is minimal brush and insects in Zion

Rainy Season (July-September)
• Pack some form of rain protection (at least a cheap poncho)
• Flash floods make slot-canyon hikes (The Narrows) extremely dangerous

Cold Weather Setup (October-May)
• Long Sleeve Shirt + Pants + Puffer Jacket
• The Narrows: Waders + waterproof socks needed (you will be walking through cold river-bed)
• Rental options available at Zion Outfitter

Puffer Jacket Packing Tips
• Year-Round: Always pack if staying outside overnight as nights get very cold in the desert (even in summer)
• October-May: Pack for day-hikes

Wood Walking Sticks
• Preferred for the Narrows trail
• Strong and can support your body weight
• Heavier and less compact compared to trekking poles
• Rental options available at Zion Outfitter

Trekking Poles
• Lightweight, easy to carry, and collapsable
• Not designed to support full body weight

Trekking Pole Benefits
• Take pressure off your knees
• By engaging your arms, trekking poles improve uphill hiking efficiency
• Assist in river crossings by offering extra balance
• Reduce the risk of falls and rolled ankles, particularly on downhill terrain

Common Injuries and Prevention in Zion
• Slipping: Caused from hiking on uneven terrain and prevented by wearing proper shoes and using a hiking stick
• Falling: Caused by hiking near drop-offs and prevented by exercising caution
• Dehydration: Caused by improper water preparation on exposued trails in the summer
• Hypothermia: Caused by walking in cold water in the Narrows and prevented by wearing waterproof clothing (from October-May)

Key Items to Pack
• Personal Medications: Medications relevant to your medical conditions
• First-Aid Medications: Ibuprofen, Benadryl, hydrocortisone, Tylenol, antibiotic ointment, and antacids
• Sanitation Supplies: Hand sanitizer and gloves
• Cleaning: Alcohol wipes
• Support Wraps: Compression wrap for sprains
• Tweezers: For splinters
• Wound Care: Gauze pads and assorted bandages.

Batteries
• Flashlights with removable external batteries are ideal for ease of replacement
• Stick to standard battery sizes like AA or AAA
• Always carry spare batteries

Headlamps
• Preferred by seasoned adventurers
• Allow you to use your hands on critical trails where hand use is necessary (Angels Landing and Narrows)

Leather vs. Rubber
• Leather: More durable and strong, handles friction and heat well.
• Rubber: Better for precision tasks and generally more comfortable.

Thick vs. Thin Gloves
• Thick Gloves: Offer better durability and protection, but tend to be bulkier.
• Thin Gloves: More comfortable and flexible, but generally don’t last as long.

Multi-Tool vs. Knife
• Knife: Typically unnecessary for most day-hike purposes
• Multi-Tool: Preferred for its range of built-in tools, which already includes a knife

Leatherman vs. Swiss Army
• Leatherman: Heavier and bulkier. Notably contains pliers making it a more durable pick
• Swiss Army: Lighter with a classic, time-tested design, ideal for lighter carry and essential tools

Mechanical vs Automatic Watches
• Mechanical watches are primarily for fashion and status.
• Automatic watches are simpler, require less maintenance, are more durable, and offer better precision—making them the practical choice.
• Best for adventuring: Automatic watches excel in functionality and reliability.

Smart-Watches
• Highly functional, acting as a mini-computer.
• Offer features like notifications, fitness tracking, and more.
• Require frequent charging, often daily, due to high battery consumption.