Nature has always held an extraordinary glamor, offering comfort, inspiration, and a break from the complexities of our daily life among the multiple ways of connecting with the great outdoors, an activity that stands out to provide an immersive experience is ‘Hiking’ enriches both the body and the mind.
It is more than just a physical activity as it offers a gateway to the untamed beauty of our surroundings that provides a direction for introspection, reflection, and personal growth. For going on an adventure like this, you need to make sure that you have all the essentials that you need for a successful journey.
Check out this list of hiking essentials you must carry while going for a hike.
1. Navigation tools
While going for a hike, you must ensure that you carry the navigation tools such as a map, compass, GPS device, etc. with you so you can go on the right path and not get lost along the way to your destination. You should opt for a hard copy of the map as there might be some areas on which the network is not available.
2. First Aid Kit
Carrying a first aid kit and knowing how to use the items available in the kit is important while going for a hike if you get sick or get a bruise or something along the way, you can always cure it by yourself at that location itself.
3. Surplus food options
Make sure you pack yourself extra food for one day at least in case your trip gets extended so you always have something with you. Things like energy bars, dried fruits, or anything healthy would be a good choice to carry as they will also provide you energy throughout.
4. Extra pair of clothing
Always remember to bring an extra pair of clothes with you while going on a hike as you never know what awaits you on your way to your destination. The conditions can turn into being abruptly wet, windy, or chilly on the location which can lead to disruption of your trip.
5. Enough amount of water
One of the most important things to carry while going anywhere is a water bottle. During the hike, you need to keep your body hydrated throughout to avoid any health issues on your behalf. And, it is usually difficult to find sources of water at high altitudes, this is why it will be good if you carry enough water with you.
6. Appropriate footwear
Before going on a trek, make sure you have a good pair of trekking shoes with you to ensure comfort even on rough terrains. The appropriate shoes will be comfortable, lightweight, and waterproof to provide protection to the ankle and also give a firm grip.
7. Sun protection
Always remember to carry sun protection essentials with you while going for a hike as at higher altitudes, the skin is more prone to get sunburn because of the UV rays and direct sunlight. Also, it can lead to skin aging, skin cancer, cataracts, or other issues in the long term.
8. Swiss Knife
For emergency purposes, you must carry a knife with you as they are handy for gear repair, first aid, food preparation, and other stuff. A basic Swiss knife includes certain tools such as screwdrivers, fold-out scissors, can openers, and other things to help you perform your activities smoothly.
9. Emergency shelter options
You should always remember to carry an emergency shelter with you to protect yourself from wind, rain, or other things, in case you get stranded or injured on the hiking trail. You must understand that you have to carry your tent with you at all times as it is your only emergency shelter.
