Hiking in the Carolinas: What I Carry and Why

Hiking in the Carolinas: The Gear I Actually Use (And Why It Matters)

Hiking in the Carolinas hits different. One day it’s crisp mountain air and quiet pine trails. The next, it’s humidity that feels like soup. If you’re heading out here—especially around Greenville, Spartanburg, or up toward Pisgah—you want gear that works, not gear that just looks outdoorsy.

After hundreds of miles on these trails, here’s the stripped-down kit I use every time.

1. Water Buffalo Hydration Pack

Carolina hiking will dry you out faster than you expect. The Water Buffalo Sherpa 22L pack https://amzn.to/3Jzv2ih is lightweight, fits without bouncing around, and carries enough water for a long morning out. The pockets accommodate your keys/phone, snacks, and emergency kit https://amzn.to/4nYzftZ and it doesn’t feel like you’re carrying a brick.

A hydration pack isn’t optional down here. It’s the difference between enjoying the hike or wondering where it all went wrong. I would change out the bladder that comes with it for one that is easy to clean and doesn’t leak. I buy these because they are inexpensive and easy to clean. https://amzn.to/43u68qY

2. Scarpa Hiking Boots

Scarpa boots are built for real trails — roots, mud, granite, creek crossings. Great ankle support without feeling stiff, and the soles stick to wet rock like glue. I wear the Kinesis pro gtx.

I bought mine from Backcountry but you can get similar models on Amazon https://amzn.to/49oCvex. if they’re in stock. If you’ve ever rolled an ankle on Paris Mountain or broken through slick mud on Table Rock, you know why solid boots matter.

3. Cheap Long-Sleeve Shirts and Quarter Zips (Yes, Really)

You don’t need $120 name-brand shirts to hike. I wear cheap long-sleeve tees because:

• They block the sun

• They keep bugs off

• They dry fast

• If you tear one on a branch, who cares?

Link: https://amzn.to/4hZJKLT

For layering, I’ll wear quarter zips because I’m a 52-year-old dad who hikes and plays pickleball. Also, quarter zips can be zipped up to keep warmth in or down to allow venting.

Link: https://amzn.to/4nUVDEn

Practical > trendy.

4. Small First-Aid Kit & Multi-Tool

You don’t need a full EMT setup. Just enough to handle a blister, cut, or a surprise “that branch had thorns?” moment. https://amzn.to/4nYzftZ

Your eyes are the only ones you get. I protect mine with Tifosi Vero Sport sunglasses when hiking, biking, sailing, or playing pickleball to protect my vision. These lenses are clear and have transition technology, so they will tint when in sunlight. https://amzn.to/4rdYYBs

The right tool for the job. I carry my Leatherman signal multi-tool whenever I leave the house. I’m partial to Leatherman tools. I keep one in every car. https://amzn.to/4o0UUBD

5. The Mindset

Don’t overpack. Don’t under-hydrate. Pick trails that match your energy level that day. And take a minute to look around—the Carolinas are ridiculous in the best way.

Summary

If you’ve got water, boots that won’t betray you, and a long-sleeve shirt, you’re in business. Everything else is extra.