Heading outdoors for an energetic hike is a good way to get fit, see the countryside and get away from the stress of urban living. A hike may be a couple of miles long, or you may choose to hike one of the many long-distance trails and camp out each night under the stars. Regardless of the duration of your hike, a number of pieces of equipment will make your hike more comfortable, safer and more enjoyable.
Footwear
Hiking footwear should be well-cushioned and supportive. Some hikers prefer shoes; others prefer boots as they provide extra ankle support, which is useful on rough terrain. Break in your footwear before attempting any long hikes, as new shoes or boots can cause blisters. Carry a spare pair of laces to avoid spending the rest of your hike with a loose-fitting boot due to a broken lace. Good socks are important for foot comfort. A threadbare sock can rub and cause a blister, making your hike a much less pleasant affair.
Clothing
Your clothing should be appropriate to the elements. If you expect to be exposed to lots of sunshine, your clothes should be loose-fitting and lightweight. For colder climates, a layered approach is appropriate, as hiking can make you warm -- but you soon get cold when you stop. With layers, you can easily add or remove clothing to regulate your body temperature. In any weather conditions, carry extra clothing to be prepared for any eventuality. Rain may not be in the forecast, but it is better to have a rain jacket and not use it than to wish you had brought one when it unexpectedly starts to rain.
Sustenance
Even on a short hike, you need to stay hydrated and probably will want a snack. On a long hike, away from civilization, you will probably carry all of your food and water with you. Carefully consider the types of food to bring, as some foods may spoil if they get too warm. Traditional hiking foods include beef jerky, trail mix, canned foods, dried foods and energy bars. Water is heavy, so you may have to fill your water bottles from streams, springs or wells. Ensure that the water is safe to drink; if in doubt, use serialization tablets or boil the water to ensure its safety.
First Aid
You may not need the contents of your first-aid kit, but it is safest to be prepared for any scenario. A hiking first-aid kit should include items for the treatment of minor cuts, blisters, insect bites, sprains and strains. It should also contain any prescription medication required by the members of your group. Any such medications should be clearly labeled.
Map and Compass
For many hikers, part of the fun of a hike is the navigation. Some trails are clearly marked; others require you to be able to use a map and compass. Some hikers prefer to use a global positioning system, or GPS, device for navigation. They are easier to use than a map and compass, but they may fail or run out of power; a backup compass and map are a good idea. For safety, ensure that you tell someone your intended route, the time or day when you expect to return and what to do if you are late. Inform your contact when you have safely returned home, to avoid unnecessarily calling for a search party.
References
- "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Backpacking and Hiking"; Jason Stevenson; 2010
- "Backpacker's Start-Up: A Beginner's Guide to Hiking and Backpacking"; Doug Werner; 1999
- "The Hiking Companion: Getting the Most From the Trail Experience Throughout the Seasons: Where to Go, What to Bring, Basic Navigation, and Backpacking"; Michael W. Robbins; 2003
Member Comments