Medical and Physical Needs
There are a few final things that I recommend having with you. First are some spare socks in case yours get totally soaked. If they do get too wet, you’ll end up with blisters, which is why water-resistant bandaids are also a must. A basic first aid kit put into a waterproof bag is also a necessity, and it should have any life-saving medications you need, as well as spare glasses or contacts.
Bug spray and sunscreen should go in every hiking bag, every time. If there’s any threat of it being cold, a packable jacket is also useful. No matter what, have a space blanket: it reflects heat and light, in case you either need to spend the night in the woods by accident or signal someone looking for you. Some means of self-defense, from two or four-legged threats, is also smart. What you choose to carry is up to you, but having a plan for defending against things you might encounter is smart. I would not want to reason with a bear. Bear spray is better and lets both me and the bear go home.
Conclusion
Here, I’ve gone through several categories of items you might want on the trail, and they’re all important. But, the more important point for me is that hiking is an opportunity to be self-sufficient for a while, get away from your ordinary life for a moment, and take some time to appreciate yourself and the people you bring with you in nature. Having the right kit makes that easier, but the most important piece of hiking gear that you have is that drive that takes so many of us into the outdoors in the first place. So, lace up your boots, load a map onto your phone, and walk until you can’t hear cars and forgot all about work emails.