Hiking is an exciting and invigorating activity that uses the outdoors as a fun way to get some exercise and discover new sights.
But there are certain things you should always carry when hiking, even if the weather dictates that you stay in the confines of your car. Here are five essential items that hikers should always have with them when they’re out and about.
What To Pack:
If you’re planning on hiking any long distances, you’ll want to pack some essentials. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- A map of the area you’ll be hiking
- A compass
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- First aid kit
- Extra clothes and shoes in case you get wet or muddy
- A whistle to signal for help if needed
- An emergency whistle that can alert people far away
Hiking Tent:
When hiking, it is important to have a quality hiking tent from NZ. There are many different types of tents and each person has their own preferences. Here are some essentials that you should always carry when hiking:
- A tent footprint or ground cloth: This will keep your tent clean and protected from dirt and rocks.
- A raincoat: A raincoat will help keep you warm and dry in inclement weather.
- An emergency whistle: A whistle can be useful in case of an emergency or if you lose your way.
- Sunscreen and lip balm: Sunscreen and lip balm will help protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays and chapped lips from cold weather.
Clothing:
If you’re ever planning a hike, carrying the right clothing is essential. You’ll want to pack clothes that are comfortable and weather-appropriate, but also look professional so you can stay in good shape (or at least not look like a homeless person).
Here are some essentials you should carry when hiking:
If you’re planning on hiking extensively, or if you’re just starting out and want to know what gear to carry, here are some essentials you should consider:
Backpack: A good backpack is essential for carrying your gear. Make sure it has plenty of storage space and comfortable straps.
Sleeping bag: If camping, a sleeping bag is necessary. Choose one that is lightweight and compact so you can take it with you on the trail.
Water bottle: Always bring a water bottle with you when hiking. Not only will it help keep you hydrated, but it can also come in handy for cooking meals or quenching thirst in the middle of nowhere.
Multi-purpose tool: A multi-purpose tool such as a Swiss Army knife can be really helpful when need be. It can open containers, cut cords, and do other tasks that might come up while hiking.
Sunscreen: Even in summertime, the sun can be brutal on your skin while hiking. Bring sunscreen to protect your skin from the rays.
Food and Supplies:
When hiking, it is important to be prepared for anything. This means packing the right supplies and knowing what to do if something goes wrong. Here are some essentials you should carry when hiking:
Map: A map is essential for navigation. Make sure to bring a topographical or satellite map, since trails may change over time and in different areas.
Hiking Boots: Bring boots that are comfortable and sturdy, in case you have to walk long distances or go backtracking.
Water bottle: Bring enough water to last the entire hike, even if you have to carry it all the way. It’s also helpful to pack a filter or iodine tablets if you know your water varies in quality (some water sources can be unsafe).
Matches: If there is a fire required for camp-fire cooking, bring matches as well.
Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays while hiking. Apply sunscreen liberally before heading outdoors, and reapply at least every two hours while hiking. Remember to avoid the eyes and lips!
Bug Spray/Sunscreen: Protect yourself from mosquitoes, ticks, chiggers, and other biting bugs while hiking by using bug spray/sunscreen. Be sure to apply generously around your neck, underarms, and feet as well!
Navigation Gear:
When hiking, it is important to have navigation gear with you in order to stay safe and find your way. This includes a map, compass, and GPS unit. A map should be large enough to show the area around your and should include contour lines so that you can see how steep the terrain is. The compass will help you find your bearings, and the GPS unit can help you track your progress.
If you’re planning on hiking in remote areas, or even just taking a short hike around your neighborhood, it’s important to be prepared for anything. Here are some essential items to pack when hiking:
- Map of the area you’re hiking in
- Compass
- GPS unit
- First aid kit
- Matches or lighter
- Sunscreen
- Bug spray
Conclusion:
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced hiker, there are some essentials that you should always carry with you when hiking. In this article, we will discuss the items that fall into this category and why they are important.
We hope that this list will help make your hiking experience more enjoyable and safer and that it will convince you to add these essential items to your packing list.
If you’re looking for a way to get out in nature and explore some new trails, hiking is a great option.
However, before you even think about packing your hiking gear, it’s important to know some essentials that you should carry when hiking. Here are five items that every hiker should have on their person:
- Map of the area – Just because you’re hiking doesn’t mean that you can forget your map! This will help you locate your position on the trail and determine how far you’ve travelled.
- Compass – A compass can be really useful if you’re lost or trying to find your way back home after a hike. Knowing which direction is north can help immensely!
- Flashlight/headlamp – Hiking at night can be pretty scary, so having a light is essential. A headlamp is ideal because it will allow you to see in the dark and keep yourself safe while walking.
- First-aid kit – If something does happen during your hike, having a first-aid kit on hand will make things much easier. This includes Band-Aids, tape, medications, and other basic necessities like painkillers and disinfectant wipes.
- Food and water – Make sure to bring enough food and water with you so that you don’t get stranded out in the wilderness! Hiking can take a lot of energy and if you don’t have anything to eat.