No matter what your hiking destination may be, it’s important to make sure you have the proper gear packed in your backpack. This gear can vary depending on the climate and terrain you will be hiking in, but there are some basics that everyone should make sure to bring along. Some of the most important items to pack are food, water, a first-aid kit, a map and compass, and emergency shelter.
Carry Enough Food and Water
First, make sure you always carry enough food and water to last through your hike. For short day hikes, carry at least one liter of water in your pack. For overnight or long treks, bring two liters of water with you wherever you go. Two gallons of water should be more than enough for a weekend trip!
You can never have too much food, so bring plenty with you on every excursion. Be sure to eat sparingly before starting out so that you don’t weigh yourself down while hiking. A good rule of thumb is to plan to eat 1-2 pounds of food per person each day (when combined with the weight of any other equipment). If it’s cold outside or high up in the mountains, you will need to bring more food than this as your body needs extra calories to keep warm.
First Aid Kit
Also, be sure to pack a first-aid kit – especially if there are going to be children on your hiking trip. Be sure to include bandages and blister pads in the kit. It’s also a good idea to include a snake bite kit or bear spray for certain areas of the country (or world).
Use your best judgment when picking the kit – make sure you have all of the essentials but don’t go overboard with it. For more detailed lists and guides go over to www.ultimategearlists.com, and see what the experts have to say. In addition, try sticking some sunscreen, lip balm, and insect repellent into your pack as well. You never know what mother nature may throw you!
A Good Backpack
Since you’ll be carrying a lot of equipment with you while hiking, it’s important to have a backpack that can handle the load. Make sure to get a backpack that is made specifically for hiking – it will have features like padded shoulder straps and a waist belt that will help distribute the weight evenly. You don’t want to end up with a sore back by the end of your hike!
Also, make sure that your backpack is the right size for you. You don’t want it to be too small or too big, as both can be uncomfortable. When trying on a backpack, make sure that it feels comfortable and that all of the straps are adjustable so that you can get a good fit.
Hiking Boots
Hiking boots are an essential piece of gear for any hiker. They provide stability and protection for your feet on difficult terrain. When shopping for hiking boots, be sure to try them on in the store and walk around in them. They should feel snug but not too tight and should have a firm heel and arch. The best time to buy hiking boots is in the fall or winter when most stores have their sales.
If you’re looking for a less expensive option, consider buying hiking shoes instead of boots. Hiking shoes provide less stability and protection than boots, but they are still a good option for hikers who are just starting out or who are hiking on easy terrain.
A Multi-tool
Multi-tools are a great option for hikers because they provide a variety of functions in a small, lightweight package. Multi-tools typically have a blade, a screwdriver, and a pliers head, as well as other tools depending on the model. This makes them perfect for fixing gear while on the trail or even performing basic repairs on your home.
Multi-tools come in both manual and powered versions. The manual versions are powered by your own strength, while the powered versions use batteries. Powered multi-tools are great for heavier tasks like cutting metal or wire. However, they do tend to be heavier and more expensive than the manual versions.
Hiking can be a great way to get outdoors and enjoy nature. It can also be a fun family activity – just make sure you are properly prepared with the right gear. This includes packing plenty of food, water, and first-aid supplies. You should also bring along a map and compass (or GPS unit) in case you get lost, as well as some form of emergency shelter in case you have to spend the night outdoors. Hiking boots are essential for any hiker, and it’s a good idea to pack a multi-tool as well. Make sure your backpack is comfortable and fits well, and be sure to try on different backpacks before purchasing one.
