Walking through the forests and trails of the Dolomiti Bellunesi is one of the most authentic experiences you can have in the mountains. But even the simplest adventures deserve a little preparation: getting your backpack ready for hiking is the first step toward enjoying your day without surprises.
You don’t need expensive or technical gear—just a smart selection of useful, lightweight, and sustainable essentials.
In this article, you’ll find everything you need for a worry-free hike, plus a few tips inspired by the slow philosophy of walking.
Want to learn more about responsible hiking practices? We recommend checking the guidelines from the Italian Alpine Club or the Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park.
Essentials for a light (and ready) start
Anyone who hikes in the mountains knows: every extra item weighs on your back. But some things are non-negotiable when it comes to safety and comfort.
- A 20–30 L backpack with comfortable straps
- A water bottle (at least 1L) or thermos, ideally stainless steel
- Light snacks or sandwiches, dried fruit, energy bars
- A compact waterproof or windproof jacket / poncho
- A fleece or warm layer—even in summer, the weather can change fast
- Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Basic first aid kit and band-aids
- A paper map or offline GPS app (e.g., Komoot, Maps.me)
In case of emergency, the Italian Alpine Rescue Corps (CNSAS) is active throughout the Dolomites. You can find an official guide on how to call for help here: https://www.cnsas.it/richiesta-di-soccorso
Small items that make a big difference
There are little things that weigh next to nothing but can turn a good hike into a great one.
- Power bank (for your smartphone or GPS)
- Tarp or compact blanket for picnic stops
- Tissues / biodegradable toilet paper
- Trash bag — REMEMBER: everything you bring in, take back down
- Whistle or headlamp for visibility—even during the day
Pro tip: always carry an extra jacket for windy spots or long breaks.
The most important thing to pack weighs nothing at all
The perfect backpack isn’t the one packed with gear, It’s the one filled with curiosity, presence, and the willingness to be surprised.
What no store can sell (and no list can teach) is your mindset: your readiness to observe, to listen to the forest, to take your time. The openness to be moved by a view, a scent of pine, or the sound of wind in the trees.
The perfect backpack has room for the memories and sensations you’ll bring home with you.
And if you’re looking for the ideal base for your hikes, Hotel Boite in Borca di Cadore is more than just a starting point, it’s a place where silence, nature, and architecture come together, inspiring every hiker to find their own rhythm.
Among forests, trails, and breathtaking views of the Dolomites, every hike begins before you even set off. In style.