Back in 2014, Tim Koertje began hiking as a way to lose weight and improve his health. In that time, he’s lost 220 pounds and counting and logged hundreds of trail miles with a backpack full of essential gear. We asked him what he packs on his day hikes along with what he wears to stay comfortable and safe.
“I have two backpacks actually,” Tim said when asked about the contents of his pack. “One is in the truck just in case I get stranded. The other is with me on the hike.”
Tim works at Coastal in the sporting goods department in Albany. He’s an amazing guy who is on a journey to improve his health, see more of nature, take some photos, and share his knowledge with others.
As he got set to lead us out on the trail, Tim put on one of his new, favorite baseball hats.
“I like to wear a baseball hat. I have all kinds of them that my brother sends from all over the world.”
Typically, Tim says he wears a pair of hiking shorts with bike shorts underneath, along with a quick-drying t-shirt and a good pair of shoes on spring and summer hikes. In the fall and winter, Tim says he’ll wear thermal leggings, tactical pants and shirt, a light jacket and bring along a Carhart rain jacket just in case.
So, what’s in Tim’s backpack? We got a close look when we stopped to appreciate the waterfall we’d hiked in to see.
What’s in Tim’s Pack
- Fixed-blade knife
- Waterproof/rugged flashlight
- Rope
- Waterproof matches and ready-to-use tinder
- Flint Firestarter
- Bottle of water
- Granola bar
- Honey (great for energy)
- Photographer’s crystal ball (for taking amazing photos)
Also in his pack, Tim often carries a LifeStraw so that he always has a way to get clean water. The truck pack contains a thermal blanket and a hammock, freeze-dried food, more water and anything else he might need in an emergency.
“I haven’t needed to use the truck pack yet,” Tim added. “But it’s good to know it’s there.”
Coastal is Your Outdoor Headquarters.
Before you head out on your next outdoor adventure, stop by your Northwest owned and operated Coastal. You’ll find boots and clothes, hats, fire starter kits, camping and hunting gear, freeze-dried and ready-to-eat food that is perfect for the train, as well as aisles of anything else you might need for your trip into nature.