Mark Greene
Going on a hike is a fun way to spend time with family or friends to explore nature. There are plenty of hiking options to choose from, such as state or national parks and national forest areas, which have extensive trail networks. This activity is also one of the most enjoyable ways to get away from everything and discover nature.
However, there’s a lot more to a perfect hiking trek than just choosing the right track. Whether you’re just hiking to a favorite waterfall or attempting to conquer a challenging peak, having the right items to bring along is essential.
First Aid KitÂ
A first aid kit is more important than anything else for a hiker’s safety. It might save your lives from tiny scraps to common injuries. You can buy the pre-assembled kits that will save the hassle of putting them together on your own. However, some people customize their kits to meet their specific needs. Whichever style you are, you need to include the essential items in every kit, starting with blister treatments, sticky bandages in multiple lengths, gauze pads, disinfectant ointment, and pain medicine.
Navigation gears
To avoid being lost when you’re on a hike, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with your route before going on your first trip. Apart from that, a map and a reliable compass are two navigational essentials for any trek into the wilderness. They’re dependable, light, long-lasting, and never run out of power. They also can help you retrace your steps during hiking.
Alternatively, you could also get a smartwatch to wear on your hike. Most smartwatches in the market come with a built-in tracker, a digital compass, and a heart rate monitor that can help you keep track of your hike and heart rate.
Sun Protection
Even if the weather appears to be gloomy during your hike, sun protection is an essential aspect of every backcountry excursion. Keep in mind to pack along your sunblock with minimum SPF 30 protection, SPF lip balm, and even a brimmed hat in every of your hiking journey. Also, don’t forget to re-apply your sun protection in a few hours to maximize the protection. You can also pack sunglasses to keep your eyes off the sun. If you ignore this part, sunburns and bleeding split lips could happen and ruin the whole hiking mood.
Water
Stay hydrated, and having a way to purify water while hiking is vital, whether with a portable filter/purifier, chemical treatment, or a water heater for melting the snow (if you’re trekking in the winter). When you’re calculating how much water is required to bring during the hike, note that most individuals require roughly a half-litre of water per hour in moderate conditions. Depending on conditions such as the ambient temperature, altitude, amount of effort, or any possible emergency, you might have to bring more than that.
Pocket/Swiss Army Knife
Every trek is different, with distinct challenges to face. A dependable and small Swiss Army Knife is a handy tool to add to your list. The possibilities are unlimited, from assisting in opening a can of your food to cutting branches to be made as firewood. Bringing along a Swiss Army Knife is as if you’re carrying a toolbox around with you!
