Are you planning a hiking trip? Have you ever been out in the wild before? If you’ve never been on a backpacking trip before, you’ll need to know that it can be challenging. Hiking requires responsibility and alertness to allow you to be aware of any potential animal or natural element that might affect your hike.
Packing and preparing can last for days, as you’ll want to be sure you’ve got everything ready for your days in the wilderness. Don’t know what essentials you need? We’re here to help.
The choice of a trail is vital
First and foremost, choose the trail that you want to hike. It’s vital to know how long a hike will be and if you can walk that long. Finding a spot to stay overnight will be essential, as it will have to be in an area where you are allowed to set up camp and stay away from potential predators.
Have you asked around about wild animals, birds, insects, and other woodland creatures? Research all the potential trails you’d like to take before you make the final decision.
Bring enough water supplies
Hydration is vital on outdoor adventures. Bringing enough water will ensure a safe stay and offer you hydration in case you get lost. If you go hiking during spring or summer, the temperatures can quickly rise, making you thirsty because you’ll be expelling lots of fluids through sweat. On top of that, you’ll need water for hygiene and cooking on a multi-day trip.
So, make sure you choose a trail near a freshwater source if you cannot carry as much water as you think you need. Should you decide to rely on drinking from streams, bring purifying tablets or reusable water bottles with purifying filters to keep the water decontaminated before you drink it.
Pack quality survival equipment
When talking about survival essentials, you cannot avoid mentioning knives. Whether preparing food or removing obstacles on your hiking trip, having USA made OTF automatic knives will make your hiking trip safer and more exhilarating. You won’t have to waste time thinking about how to cut branches, food or start a fire. An automatic knife can be the best weapon as the first line of defense against animals, as well.
A paracord survival bracelet is another survival item to bring along. It will come in handy for creating a raft, fixing a trap or a splint, and hanging food away from animals. A whistle should be a part of the survival equipment, alongside a first-aid kit, fire starter and a headlamp.
Consider the season/weather
Hiking can quickly turn into a nightmare if you don’t pack proper clothes. On the one hand, you can overdress with chunky coats and long thick bottoms when the temperature goes above 25 degrees C. Not only will the hike be unbearable due to all the sweltering, but it can even result in a heat stroke. On the other hand, if you bring only lightweight clothes, you can quickly catch a cold once the temperatures suddenly drop.
Therefore, pack wisely according to the season and weather forecast. Always have a waterproof coat and footwear in case you face rainy conditions.
Have reliable navigation systems
How are your navigation skills? Can you easily remember your way home from the newly visited destination? Do you get lost easily? A reliable navigation system will be invaluable for hiking. A compass is a good old option that will let you know where each side of the world is so you can find your way easily if navigating through a paper map.
A GPS is another option that many hikers prefer. However, if you don’t have anywhere to charge your GPS bracelet or phone, a compass will offer a more reliable orientation.
Don’t hike alone
If you’ve been considering a solo hiking trip, we’d advise against it. You never know what can go wrong on a hiking adventure if you trip and fall without being able to call anyone for help. Don’t risk being stranded in the wilderness, but plan a hiking adventure with at least one more person. Ideally, there will be a group of people to hike with and rely on their help.
Final thoughts
Hiking is an exciting adventure that you should plan with your friends. Look up the weather before you go and pack accordingly. Don’t forget survival equipment alongside enough water and food to keep you energized during your hike. Pack a reliable navigation system to know which way to go and research the trail with more security.
