As any experienced hiker can tell you, there are items that are essential to have with you, no matter how short or long the hike you’re attempting, while there are other things you can (and should) leave behind. The clerk at the store may convince you that you need everything from pants that zip off at the knee (to become shorts), to wool socks and a parka (unnecessary unless you’re hiking in near-freezing or below-zero weather), to carabiners and rope (unless you’re planning to scale a sheer rock face, you probably don’t need these items). In short, much of the hiking paraphernalia that retailers try to push on you is largely superfluous (although they will certainly scare you into buying it with the threat of emergency scenarios). But there are several items that you should take with you.
1. Canteen. When you’re out enjoying nature, it’s easy to forget about staying hydrated. But the truth is that you’re engaging in physical exertion and you need to replenish the valuable fluids that are lost through sweat. If you fail to do so, you could end up suffering dehydration, which could end up being a serious condition if you’re far away from civilization at the time. At the least, you’ll get a nasty headache. So just make sure you bring enough water to sustain you for the duration of your hike.
2. Daypack. Unless you’re crossing a mountain range, you probably don’t need a full frame pack that will hold a bedroll and several days’ worth of provisions. If you’re carrying too much weight (with a large pack full of stuff you probably won’t need) then you’re only going to wear yourself out. So just bring a small bag with enough food, water, and other provisions to last for the length of your hike.
3. First aid kit. You don’t need to bring the entire pharmacy with you, but it couldn’t hurt to have a few lightweight supplies on hand, including Band-Aids, styptic powder, antibiotic ointment, an Ace bandage, and some aspirin and ibuprofen. These items should cover just about any minor injury or ailment that could pop up.
4. Power bars. If your hike is longer than a few hours long, you’ll probably be happy to have a snack. You can bring trail mix, fruit and vegetables, a sandwich, or virtually any food that is high in slow-burning carbs and low in sugar and sodium. Power bars are a good option because they’re small, portable, and individually wrapped.
5. Hiking boots. Forget sneakers. If you’re a serious hiker you need to have the proper footwear (or risk injury). You might not think that a little blister is a problem, at least not until you have to walk five miles with it. And then there’s always the possibility of turning your ankle because the shoes you have chosen are not built for your purposes. Your other gear doesn’t matter so much (although wick-away clothing will probably make you more comfortable), but if you use the wrong footwear, you’re going to feel it.
Leah Ryan writes for Adiamor Engagement Rings where you can find loose diamonds, engagement ring settings, diamond pendants, and other fine diamond jewelry.
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