This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates how much design and testing matter. Having personally tested all these harnesses, I can tell you that the PHOEPET No Pull Dog Harness Medium Reflective Orange excels in real-world walks. It’s quick to put on with three easy-to-use buckles, and the no-pull feature with dual leash attachment points keeps my energetic pup steady. The reflective material really lights up in low light, adding safety during dusk strolls. Plus, the soft handle gives me that extra control when needed, especially in tricky situations.
Compared to bulkier backpacks like the ONETIGRIS Dog Backpack, which offers great storage but adds weight, or the ultra-light Ruffwear Hi & Light for smaller agility-minded dogs, the PHOEPET harness strikes the ideal balance of comfort, safety, and ease of use. It’s durable, highly adjustable, and specifically designed to prevent pulling, which makes walks more enjoyable for both of us. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend the PHOEPET No Pull Dog Harness for anyone who wants a reliable, safe, and user-friendly hiking harness that truly delivers.
Top Recommendation: PHOEPET No Pull Dog Harness Medium Reflective Orange
Why We Recommend It: It stands out for its quick on/off design with 3 secure buckles, reducing stress and frustration. Its dual leash attachment points—especially the front hook—help curb pulling effectively. The reflective material enhances visibility at night, and the soft handle offers immediate control in tricky situations. Compared to backpacks and minimalist harnesses, it offers superior safety features, ease of use, and durability—all tested for real-world hiking conditions.
Best hiking dog harness: Our Top 5 Picks
- PHOEPET No Pull Dog Harness Medium Reflective Orange – Best no-pull dog harness
- ONETIGRIS Dog Backpack for Hiking, Nylon, Medium – Best lightweight dog harness
- Ruffwear Hi & Light Dog Harness, Medium, Basalt Gray – Best adjustable dog harness
- Embark Adventure No Pull Dog Harness, Reflective Trim No – Best reflective dog harness
- OneTigris Dog Backpack for Medium & Large Dogs – Best padded dog harness
PHOEPET No Pull Dog Harness Medium Reflective Orange
- ✓ Easy to put on & off
- ✓ Reduces pulling effectively
- ✓ Reflective for safety
- ✕ Slightly bulky for tiny dogs
- ✕ Might need frequent adjustments
| Size | Medium (suitable for medium-sized dogs) |
| Material | Durable nylon with reflective fabric |
| Buckle Type | Plastic side-release buckles with locking feature |
| Leash Attachment Points | Two metal D-rings (front and back) |
| Reflective Material | High-visibility reflective strips for safety in low light |
| Handle | Reinforced soft handle for control and assistance |
Ever struggle to get your dog into a harness without a wrestling match? That’s where this PHOEPET No Pull Dog Harness really shines.
The updated design with three easy-to-use buckles means no more fussing with pulling the harness over your pup’s head.
It’s a game changer for dogs who dislike having things slipped over their face. I found it quick to put on and take off, which makes those morning walks way less stressful.
The chest straps are adjustable, ensuring a snug fit without choking or discomfort.
The dual hook loops are a thoughtful touch. Using the front hook really helps reduce pulling, making walks more enjoyable for you and your dog.
The back hook is perfect for casual strolls or when you want your pup to have more freedom.
And don’t overlook the reflective material—especially handy if you’re out after sunset. It keeps your dog visible to drivers, providing peace of mind.
Plus, the soft handle at the back is surprisingly comfortable to grip and helps control your dog when needed.
This harness feels sturdy yet lightweight on your dog, and the bright orange color adds a safety pop of visibility. The quality seems solid, and I appreciate the customer service promise—knowing I can get a refund or replacement if needed gives extra confidence.
Overall, this harness is a smart choice for active dogs and their owners. It’s comfortable, easy to use, and packed with features that make outdoor adventures safer and more fun.
ONETIGRIS Dog Backpack for Hiking, Nylon, Medium
- ✓ Durable 1000D nylon
- ✓ Large storage capacity
- ✓ Secure fit and adjustable
- ✕ Slightly heavier than basic harnesses
- ✕ May take time to get used to fitting
| Material | 1000D nylon with mesh lining |
| Storage Capacity | 3L main pouch with additional side pouches |
| Weight | 456 grams (16 ounces) |
| Adjustable Straps | Neck 22-31.5 inches, Chest 29-35.8 inches |
| Fastening System | Hook-and-loop belly strap with UTX-Duraflex buckles |
| Additional Features | Hidden zippers, reinforced grab handle with UTX-Duraflex clip |
Imagine you’re on a crisp morning hike with your dog, and suddenly they spot a squirrel darting across the trail. You reach for your backpack, and that’s when you realize how well-designed the ONETIGRIS Dog Backpack is for moments like this.
The sturdy nylon feels tough but lightweight, and the adjustable straps let you snugly fit it around your pup’s chest and neck.
The large 3L pouch gives you plenty of room for water bottles, treats, or toys, and those side pockets with the bungee cords are a game-changer for extra gear. I appreciated how the hidden zippers kept hair from snagging and minimized accidental openings.
It’s smartly built so your dog can move freely without feeling restricted.
Putting it on is straightforward thanks to the reinforced grab handle and the wrap-around belly strap with durable UTX-Duraflex buckles. The mesh lining inside ensures breathability during longer walks, preventing overheating.
I also found that the pack stayed firmly in place, even on more active parts of our trail.
What stood out is how versatile this pack is—fits a range of breeds thanks to the adjustable straps. Plus, the added leash clip on top means you don’t need an extra harness.
Overall, it’s a reliable, well-thought-out gear option for hiking adventures, making both you and your furry friend more prepared for the outdoors.
Ruffwear Hi & Light Dog Harness, Medium, Basalt Gray
- ✓ Ultra-lightweight and low profile
- ✓ Easy to fit and adjust
- ✓ Dual clip options for control
- ✕ May be too minimal for heavy pullers
- ✕ Not as padded as bulkier harnesses
| Material | Lightweight, durable synthetic fabric with padding for comfort |
| Size Range | Suitable for small to medium dogs, with adjustable four-point fit |
| Attachment Points | Reinforced front clip and aluminum V-ring at the back |
| Design Features | Low-profile, streamlined fit for close-to-body comfort |
| Intended Use | Trail running, hiking, daily walks |
| Weight | Lightweight construction designed for fast-moving dogs |
Imagine you’re out on a brisk trail walk with your energetic little pup, who’s a tiny bundle of unstoppable enthusiasm. You’re navigating rocky paths, and suddenly, your dog darts forward, eager to chase a squirrel.
You reach for their harness, and immediately, you notice how lightweight and barely-there it feels against their body.
This is where the Ruffwear Hi & Light Dog Harness really shines. Its featherlight design means your pup hardly notices it, which is perfect for those quick, light-footed moments on the trail.
The fit is intuitive—once you check the sizing chart and watch the fitting video, getting it just right feels straightforward. I especially appreciated how snug it fits without pinching or rubbing, even on deep-chested or hard-to-fit pups.
The streamlined, low-profile shape hugs the body close, giving your dog freedom to move without bulk. The two clip options—front and back—offer flexible handling.
Whether you want to guide your pup gently or attach a secondary leash for training, it’s simple to switch between the reinforced front clip and the V-ring at the back.
The adjustable points are a game-changer, ensuring a secure fit that stays put no matter how wild the adventure gets. Even my escape artist pup had a hard time slipping out.
It’s comfortable, lightweight, and gives me confidence that I have control without restricting movement.
Overall, this harness makes every outdoor outing feel safer and more comfortable for your dog. It’s just the right mix of minimalism and performance, making it a standout for active pups who love to explore.
Embark Adventure No Pull Dog Harness, Reflective Trim No
- ✓ Bright reflective trim
- ✓ Lightweight and breathable
- ✓ Strong and adjustable fit
- ✕ Not suitable for large dogs
- ✕ Limited color options
| Material | Heavy-duty Oxford and Military Grade Nylon |
| Size Range | Chest girth 26 – 31 inches, Neck 15 – 24 inches |
| Pulling Strength | Up to 750 lbs |
| Reflective Features | 360° reflective trim for high visibility in low-light conditions |
| Leash Attachments | Front and back D-ring clips |
| Additional Features | Soft padding to prevent chafing and a Gel handle for control |
I was pleasantly surprised to discover just how lightweight and breathable the Embark Adventure No Pull Dog Harness is. I expected a bulky, stiff harness, but this one feels almost like wearing a second skin for my dog.
The fabric is soft yet durable, made from heavy-duty Oxford and Military Grade Nylon, which immediately reassures you about its strength. The reflective trim isn’t just for show—it’s bright enough to catch your eye even in low-light conditions, making those evening walks feel much safer.
Adjustability is a standout feature. The longer straps and reinforced safety clips mean you can fine-tune the fit for a snug, comfortable feel.
My dog’s chest measures 28 inches, and I found the medium size fits perfectly without any chafing or rubbing.
The Gel handle is a game-changer. It offers a sturdy grip during tricky moments, like crowded parks or steep trails.
The front and back leash attachments give you flexibility for training or casual walks, and I noticed a real difference with the front clip in reducing pulling.
What really impressed me is how lightweight and unobtrusive it is—my dog moves freely without any restriction. The padding around the chest and shoulders is soft and does not cause any discomfort, which is often a concern with harnesses for active dogs.
Overall, this harness combines safety, comfort, and visibility. It’s ideal for medium-sized dogs that love outdoor adventures but need a little help with pulling or visibility.
OneTigris Dog Backpack for Medium & Large Dogs
- ✓ Durable 1000D nylon
- ✓ Breathable mesh lining
- ✓ Easy to adjust fit
- ✕ Slightly bulky
- ✕ Limited color options
| Material | 1000D nylon with mesh lining |
| Storage Capacity | 3L pouch with additional external pockets |
| Weight | 600g (21oz) |
| Adjustable Straps | Neck 21-31.5 inches, Chest 29-36 inches |
| Fastening System | Hook-and-loop belly strap with UTX-Duraflex buckles |
| Additional Features | Hidden zippers, reinforced grab handle with UTX-Duraflex clip |
The OneTigris Dog Backpack for Medium & Large Dogs immediately caught my attention with its rugged 1000D nylon construction, which feels incredibly durable yet lightweight at just 600g. The mesh lining inside promises breathability, making it a great choice for those longer hikes where comfort is key.
This pack features a roomy 3L storage pouch, perfect for carrying water, treats, or small toys. I especially appreciated the two 2″ by 7″ loop panels on each side, which allowed me to attach extra gear or water bottles securely, thanks to the cross-bungee cords. The hidden zippers also kept hair from getting caught and prevented accidental openings during movement. When comparing different best hiking dog harness options, this model stands out for its quality.
Adjusting the harness was straightforward with the hook-and-loop belly strap and UTX-Duraflex buckles, ensuring a snug fit for my dog with a 29-inch chest and 21-inch neck. The reinforced grab handle and 2 adjustable straps made it easy to control and secure during our trek. Overall, the OneTigris MAMMOTH Dog Pack offers a sturdy, well-designed option for adventure-loving pet owners.
What Features Should a Hiking Dog Harness Have for Optimal Performance?
The best hiking dog harnesses should include several essential features to ensure safety, comfort, and performance for both the dog and the owner.
- Adjustable Straps: A good hiking dog harness should have multiple adjustable straps to ensure a snug fit. This feature allows the harness to accommodate different body shapes and sizes, preventing chafing and ensuring that the harness stays securely in place during vigorous activity.
- Padded Design: Padded sections on the harness are crucial for comfort during long hikes. Soft padding around the chest and belly helps distribute pressure evenly and reduces the risk of irritation or injury, making it more comfortable for the dog to wear for extended periods.
- Durable Material: The material used in the harness should be rugged and weather-resistant. High-quality fabrics like nylon or polyester can withstand the elements, resist wear and tear, and provide a long-lasting solution for outdoor adventures.
- Leash Attachment Points: A versatile harness should feature multiple leash attachment points, typically at the back and sometimes at the front. This allows for different walking styles and can help with training by discouraging pulling when the leash is attached at the front.
- Reflective Elements: Safety is paramount, especially in low-light conditions, so reflective stitching or strips on the harness can enhance visibility. These features help ensure that dogs are seen by others during early morning or late evening hikes, reducing the risk of accidents.
- Lightweight Construction: A lightweight harness is beneficial for agility and comfort during hikes. It minimizes the burden on the dog while still providing the necessary support and protection, allowing them to move freely without feeling weighed down.
- Easy to Put On and Take Off: The design should allow for quick and easy donning and removal of the harness. Features like quick-release buckles or a step-in design can save time and hassle, especially after a long day of hiking when you want to get the dog settled quickly.
- Breathable Fabric: A harness made from breathable materials helps regulate the dog’s temperature during physical activity. This feature is particularly important in warmer weather, as it prevents overheating and allows for better air circulation around the dog’s body.
Why Is Durability Crucial for Hiking Dog Harnesses?
Durability is crucial for hiking dog harnesses because they must withstand the rigors of outdoor activities, including rough terrains, varying weather conditions, and the physical strength of active dogs.
According to a study conducted by the American Kennel Club, dogs that engage in regular outdoor activities are more prone to wear and tear on their gear, necessitating high-quality materials that can endure such conditions (American Kennel Club, 2021). Additionally, a report from Consumer Reports emphasizes that harness durability directly correlates with the safety and comfort of the dog during hikes, highlighting that inferior materials can lead to harness failures and injuries.
The underlying mechanism of this durability requirement stems from the fact that hiking often involves sharp rocks, branches, and other natural obstacles that can easily damage low-quality harnesses. Furthermore, the physical exertion from both the dog and the owner creates stress points on the harness. If the harness is not made from robust materials, it can tear or break, resulting in a lost dog or injury. Moreover, a well-constructed harness with reinforced stitching and heavy-duty buckles will not only last longer but also provide better support, ensuring that the dog remains safe and comfortable throughout the hike.
How Do Size and Fit Influence Performance in Hiking Dog Harnesses?
Size and fit are crucial factors that significantly influence the performance of hiking dog harnesses.
- Proper Size: A harness that is the right size ensures that it distributes pressure evenly across the dog’s body, which enhances comfort and reduces the risk of injury during hikes.
- Adjustability: Harnesses with adjustable straps allow for a customized fit, accommodating different body shapes and sizes, which is essential for active dogs that may change shape over time due to weight fluctuations or muscle gain.
- Secure Fit: A well-fitted harness prevents slipping and chafing, allowing the dog to move freely and confidently, which can improve their overall performance and enjoyment on the trail.
- Weight Distribution: Harnesses designed to distribute weight evenly help in preventing strain on the dog’s neck and spine, which is particularly important during long hikes where the dog may pull or exert more effort.
- Reflective Features: Many hiking harnesses come with reflective elements that improve visibility in low-light conditions, ensuring that both the owner and the dog remain safe while exploring trails at dawn or dusk.
- Material Quality: High-quality materials not only contribute to the durability of the harness but also impact fit; breathable fabrics enhance comfort and reduce overheating during strenuous activities.
What Materials Offer the Best Comfort and Safety in Hiking Dog Harnesses?
The best hiking dog harnesses are made from materials that prioritize both comfort and safety for your dog during outdoor adventures.
- Neoprene: This material is soft and padded, providing comfort against your dog’s skin while also being water-resistant. Neoprene is flexible and allows for a snug fit without restricting movement, making it ideal for long hikes.
- Nylon: A durable and lightweight option, nylon is often used in hiking dog harnesses due to its strength and resistance to wear and tear. High-quality nylon harnesses often come with reinforced stitching and can withstand rough outdoor conditions, ensuring your dog’s safety.
- Reflective Materials: Harnesses featuring reflective strips or panels enhance visibility during low-light conditions, which is crucial for safety during early morning or late evening hikes. These materials help ensure that both you and your dog can be seen by others, reducing the risk of accidents.
- Mesh Fabric: Often used in the lining of harnesses, mesh fabric promotes breathability and moisture-wicking, keeping your dog cool during strenuous hikes. This material is lightweight and helps prevent overheating, making it an excellent choice for warmer climates.
- Padding and Foam: Extra padding or foam in the harness design can provide additional comfort, especially for dogs that may be sensitive to pressure points. This cushioning helps distribute weight evenly, reducing the risk of chafing or discomfort during extended wear.
What Benefits Can You Expect from Using a Hiking Dog Harness?
The benefits of using a hiking dog harness are numerous and can significantly enhance both the dog’s experience and the owner’s control during outdoor adventures.
- Improved Control: A harness provides better control over your dog, especially in challenging terrains. It distributes pressure across the dog’s body rather than concentrating it on the neck, reducing the risk of injury and allowing for more effective steering.
- Enhanced Comfort: Many hiking dog harnesses are designed with padded straps and breathable materials, ensuring comfort during long hikes. This reduces chafing and discomfort, allowing your dog to enjoy the adventure without distractions.
- Safety Features: The best hiking dog harnesses often come with reflective materials and sturdy leash attachments. These features enhance visibility in low-light conditions and provide a secure point for leash attachment, reducing the risk of escape.
- Load-Bearing Capability: Some harnesses are equipped with packs for carrying supplies, such as food and water. This allows dogs to contribute to the hike, making them more actively involved and helping reduce the load for the owner.
- Ease of Use: Many hiking dog harnesses are designed for quick on-and-off use, which is beneficial when transitioning between different activities. This convenience can make preparing for a hike less stressful and more efficient.
- Support for Older or Injured Dogs: Harnesses often include handle features that allow owners to assist dogs that may struggle with climbing or descending steep paths. This extra support can be crucial for older dogs or those with mobility issues.
How Does a Dog Harness Enhance Control and Comfort During Hikes?
A dog harness enhances control and comfort during hikes by distributing pressure evenly and providing better leash management.
- Comfort Fit: A well-designed harness ensures that the dog is comfortable while wearing it, reducing the likelihood of chafing or irritation. This is particularly important during long hikes, where traditional collars can dig into the dog’s neck or cause discomfort.
- Improved Control: Harnesses allow for better control of the dog, especially during challenging terrain or busy trails. By attaching the leash to the back or front of the harness, owners can guide their dogs more effectively, which is crucial for safety in crowded or uneven environments.
- Support for Pullers: Many dogs tend to pull on the leash, which can be difficult to manage with a collar. A harness designed for hiking often features a front clip that discourages pulling, making it easier for owners to maintain control without straining the dog’s neck.
- Adjustability: The best hiking dog harnesses come with adjustable straps that allow for a customized fit. This adjustability ensures that the harness stays secure and comfortable, accommodating any changes in the dog’s coat or body shape during the hike.
- Reflective Materials: Many hiking harnesses incorporate reflective materials for increased visibility during early morning or evening hikes. This feature enhances safety by ensuring that both the dog and owner are visible to others, including vehicles and other hikers.
- Attachment Points: Some harnesses come with multiple attachment points for leashes, which can be beneficial for different hiking situations. Whether you need to attach a leash for close control or a longer lead for more freedom, these options provide versatility in handling your dog.
What Safety Features Are Essential in Hiking Dog Harnesses?
When selecting the best hiking dog harness, certain safety features are crucial to ensure comfort and security for your pet.
- Durable Materials: A harness made from high-quality, weather-resistant materials is essential for hiking. It should withstand wear and tear from rough terrain and protect against moisture, ensuring your dog remains comfortable and safe during your adventures.
- Adjustable Straps: Adjustable straps allow for a customized fit, which is vital for preventing chafing and ensuring that the harness stays securely in place. This feature accommodates different body shapes and sizes, providing both comfort and safety for your dog.
- Padded Chest and Belly Straps: Padded areas help distribute pressure evenly across your dog’s body, reducing the risk of injury and discomfort during hikes. This is particularly important for long-distance trekking where prolonged wear could lead to abrasions or soreness.
- Reflective Elements: Reflective stitching or patches enhance visibility in low-light conditions, which is crucial for evening hikes or early morning outings. This feature helps keep your dog safe from accidents by making them more visible to other hikers or vehicles.
- Leash Attachment Points: Multiple leash attachment points, such as a back and front clip, provide versatility in how you control your dog. A front clip can help with pulling, while a back clip is great for casual walks, giving you more options depending on your hiking scenario.
- Safety Handle: A built-in safety handle on the back of the harness allows for easy lifting or support over obstacles. This is particularly useful in rugged terrains where your dog might need help navigating tough spots or when crossing streams.
- Quick Release Buckles: Quick release buckles enable easy on-and-off access, which is beneficial when you need to remove the harness quickly for any reason. This feature is also handy for adjusting the harness quickly during hikes without needing to struggle with complex fastenings.
What Are the Most Recommended Brands for Hiking Dog Harnesses?
Some of the most recommended brands for hiking dog harnesses include:
- Ruffwear: Ruffwear is widely recognized for its durable and high-quality dog gear, particularly their harnesses designed for outdoor adventures. Their harnesses, such as the Front Range Harness, offer a comfortable fit with padded straps and a strong handle for lifting your dog over obstacles.
- Kurgo: Kurgo specializes in outdoor and travel gear for pets, providing harnesses that are both functional and stylish. Their Tru-Fit Smart Harness features a no-pull design and is crash-tested for car safety, making it versatile for both hiking and vehicle travel.
- Pawtitas: Known for its lightweight and adjustable designs, Pawtitas offers harnesses that prioritize comfort during long hikes. Their harnesses are made from breathable materials, ensuring that dogs remain cool and comfortable while providing a secure fit.
- PetSafe: PetSafe harnesses focus on easy adjustments and safety features, making them ideal for hiking. The EasySport Harness is particularly notable for its reflective strips and multiple adjustment points, ensuring a snug and secure fit during outdoor activities.
- Blue-9: Blue-9’s harnesses are designed with a unique fit that allows for freedom of movement, making them perfect for active dogs. The Balance Harness promotes proper leash training while providing comfort and support on rugged trails.
How Do Customer Reviews Impact the Choice of a Hiking Dog Harness?
Customer reviews significantly influence the selection of the best hiking dog harness by providing insights into real-world performance and user satisfaction.
- Trust and Credibility: Reviews from fellow customers lend credibility to a product, making potential buyers more inclined to trust recommendations over marketing claims.
- Performance Insights: Customers often share specific experiences regarding the harness’s durability, comfort, and ease of use, helping others gauge how well it meets their hiking needs.
- Real-life Testing: Reviews frequently include details about the harness in various environments and conditions, allowing prospective buyers to understand how it holds up during actual hikes.
- Feature Comparisons: User feedback can highlight unique features or drawbacks of different harnesses, guiding consumers in comparing options to find the best fit for their dog.
- Community Recommendations: Reviews often come from a community of dog owners who share a passion for hiking, creating a sense of belonging and encouraging users to choose products favored by fellow enthusiasts.
Trust and credibility are crucial as reviews from fellow customers lend credibility to a product, making potential buyers more inclined to trust recommendations over marketing claims. When consumers see positive feedback from other users, it reassures them that their investment in a harness will be worthwhile.
Performance insights are another key aspect of customer reviews; users typically share specific experiences regarding the harness’s durability, comfort, and ease of use. This information is invaluable for those who want to ensure that their chosen product will perform well during long hikes.
Real-life testing is often documented in reviews, where customers describe how the harness performs in various environments and conditions, providing potential buyers with a clear picture of its reliability during actual hikes. This real-world context helps inform purchase decisions, as consumers are interested in how products stand up to outdoor challenges.
Feature comparisons are frequently addressed in customer feedback, highlighting unique characteristics or drawbacks of different harnesses. This type of information allows consumers to make informed choices by understanding which features might best suit their dog’s specific needs.
Finally, community recommendations play a significant role in the decision-making process; reviews come from a community of dog owners who share a passion for hiking. This creates a sense of belonging and encourages users to choose products favored by fellow hiking enthusiasts, reinforcing the idea that their choice is supported by a wider community.
What Additional Accessories Can Improve Your Dog’s Hiking Experience?
Several accessories can significantly enhance your dog’s hiking experience.
- Best Hiking Dog Harness: A well-fitted hiking dog harness distributes weight evenly and provides better control over your dog, making it easier to navigate challenging terrains.
- Dog Booties: Protecting your dog’s paws with booties can prevent injuries from rough surfaces, hot ground, or cold snow, allowing them to hike comfortably for longer periods.
- Hydration Pack: A hydration pack designed for dogs allows them to carry their own water supply, ensuring they stay hydrated during long hikes while also lightening your load.
- Reflective Gear: Adding reflective gear or vests enhances your dog’s visibility, especially in low-light conditions, ensuring safety on trails that may have other users or traffic.
- Portable Dog Bowl: A collapsible or portable dog bowl makes it easy to provide water to your dog at rest stops, ensuring they stay refreshed without the hassle of carrying bulky equipment.
- First Aid Kit: A compact first aid kit specifically for dogs can address minor injuries or ailments during hikes, giving you peace of mind and ensuring you are prepared for any situation.
- Dog Backpack: A well-designed dog backpack allows your dog to carry their own supplies, such as food and water, which can help them stay engaged and active during the hike.