WHAT TO PACK FOR A DAY HIKE IN EL CHALTEN
Before heading out, it’s important to keep a few key details about your route in mind. Hiking to the Chorrillo del Salto is not the same as hiking to Laguna de los Tres, just as setting out in bad weather is not the same as hiking under clear skies (more info: Weather in El Chaltén). Once you’ve defined your itinerary, you can start thinking about what to wear and what to pack.
Let’s start with the basics: for a there-and-back day hike, you won’t need a 70–80 litre pack — a 20–25 litre daypack is more than enough. And of course, top-of-the-line gear brands are absolutely not a requirement — we’re in Argentina, and we make it work!
It’s also worth keeping this in mind: the more space you have, the more you’ll be tempted to fill it. Stick to the essentials only. And remember — the heavier your pack, the less you’ll enjoy the hike.
Basic Day Hike Checklist
The following checklist covers the essential items for a one-day hike. Adapt it to your own needs and the specific trail you are doing:
- Food: Cereal bars, nuts, crackers and energy snacks are the most practical options. A hot drink for breaks is a nice bonus — just factor in the weight and volume. More info: El Chaltén: Food Guide.
- Water: Most trails in the park have natural water sources along the route. A reusable 750ml to 1-litre bottle is usually enough to carry between refill points. If in doubt about water quality, bring a filter or purification tablets.
- Windproof jacket + spare mid-layer: Sweat-soaked clothing can catch you off guard very quickly in Patagonian conditions. Depending on the forecast, consider packing an extra layer — and always avoid cotton garments.
- Sun Protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat/cap/buff and any other item to shield against UV exposure.
- Rubbish bags: Everything you bring into the park must leave with you — including fruit peels and any other organic or inorganic waste. Leave no trace.
- Waterproof pack liner: Newer backpacks often include a built-in rain cover. If yours does not, a spare rubbish bag works perfectly — just transfer your gear inside if rain hits.
- Mini First aid kit: What you include depends on the person — this topic really deserves its own dedicated post. For a day hike, the basics are: adhesive bandages, a pain reliever, a blister kit (if you are prone to them) and any personal medication you may need.
- Trekking poles: Highly useful on both ascents and descents, especially on windy or uneven sections. Available to rent or purchase at outdoor gear shops in Puerto Natales before entering the park.
- Phone or camera: Photography enthusiasts may wrestle with whether to bring lenses, a tripod, etc. — factor in weight and bulk accordingly.
- Headlamp (with extra batteries): Essential if you plan to catch a sunrise, or if there is any chance the outing runs longer than expected.
As mentioned throughout this guide, adapt this checklist to the specific trail, the weather forecast and the time of year. Everything here is a baseline reference point.
For hikes with an overnight stay, see: What to Pack for a Multi-Day Hike.
