What to Pack for Your Hiking Elopement: A Gear Guide
March 9, 2025
So, you’ve decided to ditch the big wedding and say “I do” in the heart of the mountains—heck yes! A hiking elopement is all about adventure, breathtaking views, and an intimate experience that’s 100% you. But let’s be real, packing for a hiking elopement is a little different than packing for a traditional wedding (goodbye, high heels; hello, hiking boots!).
We’ve got you covered with a straight forward, easy to read, and actually useful packing guide so you’re fully prepped for your best day ever.
1. The Essentials
These are the non-negotiables—forgetting any of these would be like hiking without shoes (aka, not great).
- Wedding Attire: Whether it’s a flowing, adventure-ready dress or a tailored suit, make sure your outfit is packed safely in a garment bag to keep it clean and wrinkle-free. We suggest rolling up your dress and storing it in a dry bag inside your pack. For more information on picking an elopement dress, check out this adventure elopement dress guide blog!
- Rings: These tiny but mighty symbols of your commitment should be stored securely in a ring box so they don’t get lost among your gear. Consider a stylish wooden or velvet box that fits your outdoor aesthetic and keeps the rings safe during the hike.
- Marriage License: Your adventure won’t be legally official without it, so double-check that it’s packed before heading out. Keep it in a waterproof folder to protect it from any surprise rain or accidental spills.
- Vow Books: If you’re writing your own vows, bring them in a durable vow book or waterproof case—because mountain weather can be unpredictable! Plus, beautifully crafted vow books make for sentimental keepsakes and stunning photos.
- Bouquet – We suggest talking with a florist who can help you pick a flower vibe that will look great for the mountains in whatever time of year you’re eloping (we have a couple fave florists in the area we can suggest!). We also love when couples bring a silk flower bouquet because then you get to keep it forever and there’s no chance of dropping flowers or seeds when we are out (big LNT fans over here).
2. Hiking Gear
Your wedding day is an adventure, so your gear should match the journey.
- Hiking Boots: & Other Shoes A solid, broken-in pair of boots is essential for comfort and stability on the trail. Avoid brand-new shoes to prevent blisters! Make sure they have good grip and ankle support, especially if you’re navigating rocky or steep trails. We love the look of hiking boots and a wedding dress, but if you wanted to bring an extra pair of shoes to change into for a few photos, go for it! If you’re wearing a suit, we suggest hiking in good hiking boots and then bringing a pair of dress shoes to change into.
- Backpack: A comfortable, lightweight backpack will help you carry all your essentials without weighing you down. Look for one with adjustable straps, a hip belt, good ventilation, and enough space for your water, snacks, and wedding must-haves.
- Headlamp or Flashlight: If your elopement is at sunrise or sunset, a reliable light source is a must for navigating in low light. Headlamps are great because they keep your hands free.
- Navigation Tools: Download offline maps on AllTrails or Gaia GPS, or bring a paper map in case there’s no cell service.
- Hiking Poles: Great for stability on steep or uneven trails, especially if you’re carrying extra weight. They help reduce knee strain and provide extra support when crossing tricky terrain.
- Layers: Mountain weather changes fast, so dress smart to stay comfortable no matter what nature throws at you.
- Moisture-Wicking Base Layer: Helps regulate body temperature and wicks away sweat, keeping you dry and comfortable.
- Insulating Mid-Layer (Fleece or Wool): Traps heat while still being breathable, essential for staying warm without overheating.
- Packable Down Jacket: Lightweight but incredibly warm, perfect for chilly mornings or unexpected drops in temperature.
- Waterproof/Windproof Shell: Protects against rain, snow, and wind without adding too much bulk.
- Gloves or Mittens: Thin liner gloves are great for mild temperatures, while insulated mittens are better for colder conditions. ALWAYS bring gloves because cold hands are no fun.
- Toque or Headband: Keeps your ears warm when the wind picks up and prevents heat loss from your head.
- Neck Gaiter or Scarf: A versatile piece that can double as face protection against wind, sun, or cold.
- Extra Socks: Wet feet can ruin a hike, so bring an extra pair of wool or moisture-wicking socks to stay warm and dry.
3. Extras
The following items can provide some extra comfort on the day of or make your experience more “you”.
- Cozy Blanket or Shawl: Adds warmth and a romantic touch to your photos, plus a comfy place to sit. A neutral or earthy-tone blanket blends beautifully with nature while keeping you warm between shots.
- Hand Warmers: Keeps your fingers toasty, especially in colder months. They’re small, easy to carry, and can make all the difference when the temperatures drop.
- Clear Umbrella: A great option for rainy weather that still lets in plenty of natural light. Rain can add a dreamy element to your photos, and a clear umbrella keeps you dry without blocking the scenery. We have some of these that we can bring!
- Touch-Up Kit: Pack travel-size hairspray, lipstick, blotting papers, and a small mirror for quick refreshes before photos. A small brush and extra hair ties are also great for keeping windblown hair under control.
- Champagne – If you want to pop some bubbly at the top!
- Personalized Details – Think of like Just Married signs, personalized mugs for morning coffee, etc
4. Snacks & Hydration
- Water Bottles or Hydration Pack: Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially at higher altitudes. A hydration bladder in your backpack is an easy way to sip on the go without needing to stop and unpack a bottle.
- Electrolyte Packets: Helps maintain energy levels and prevent dehydration. These are great for replenishing salts lost during hiking and can help prevent altitude sickness.
- High-Energy Snacks: Protein bars, trail mix, and dried fruit are easy-to-pack options to keep you fueled. Nut butter packets, beef jerky, and granola are also excellent lightweight, energy-packed choices. We always have Sour Patch kids to share, too 🙂
- Celebration Picnic: If you want a mountaintop toast, pack a small picnic with charcuterie, a thermos of coffee or tea, or even a mini wedding cake!
5. Just in Case: Emergency & Comfort Items
Because even the best adventures need a backup plan.
- Bear Spray – The Canadian Rockies is grizzly country so we always make sure every member of our party has bear spray. If you don’t have one or aren’t planning on getting one while you’re here for other hikes, let us know and we can bring you one and explain how to use it.
- First Aid Kit: Include band-aids, blister pads, and pain relievers to handle minor injuries. Tweezers, antiseptic wipes, and allergy medication are also great to have on hand.
- Sunscreen & Bug Spray: Sunburn and mosquito bites are not the kind of wedding memories you want. Even on cloudy days, UV rays can be intense in higher elevations, so apply sunscreen generously.
- Emergency Blanket: A lightweight addition that provides extra warmth if needed. It can also double as a wind blocker or a cozy wrap if the temperatures dip lower than expected.
- Satellite Communicator: If you have one, definitely bring your Garmin InReach device. If you don’t have one, don’t worry, we always carry one!
- Small Towel: Useful for drying off after a stream crossing or wiping away happy tears. A microfiber towel is lightweight, quick-drying, and perfect for unexpected spills or weather shifts.
If your hike is on the longer side, consider dividing up gear between you and your partner, or bringing a friend to help carry some of the load. And don’t forget—whatever you pack in, pack out! Leave no trace so future couples can enjoy the same epic landscapes.
There you have it, our hiking elopement packing guide! Now that you’re fully prepared, all that’s left to do is soak up every second of your incredible hiking elopement.
