Life gets busy, and you may need to take time out and explore different terrains. Hiking is a great activity that allows you to enjoy incredibly fresh air and beautiful scenery. In addition, the long trails present a welcome challenge to help you test your endurance and fitness.
Going for a hike requires you to be well-prepared to ensure that you get to enjoy the whole hiking experience. Therefore, investing in a hiking checklist is essential to help you plan for a successful hiking trip.
Your hiking checklist should feature items that will come in handy throughout your trip and keep you on the right path. Some of the things to always include in your hiking checklist include:
Table of Contents: 6 Items That Should Be On Your Hiking Checklist
Hiking Gear
Hiking gear is essential when going to a foreign place without much access to civilization. You will need to carry a trekking pole to help you navigate rough terrains that would otherwise be harder for you to go through.
Additionally, investing in a light daypack that only allows you to take the necessary items will help you stay light. Finally, ensure that you carry a waterproof pack cover and a raincoat for when it starts raining.
If you plan to hike with a bike, ensure that you invest in mountain bikes that are full suspension for an easier time. These bikes absorb the bumps and make the riding experience easier for you.
Clothing and Shoes
Checking the weather forecast before heading out for your hike will help you wear the proper clothing. In addition, dressing appropriately for the weather will make your hiking experience more enjoyable and memorable.
Packing extra clothes is also a great idea if you spend the night out camping or the weather changes, and you need to change. When choosing the shoes you’ll wear for your hike, consider the terrain you’ll navigate. Ensure that you wear shoes suitable to the specific landscape to give you the necessary support.
First Aid Kit
Having a first aid kit with essential supplies will help you cater to any emergencies that may come up during your hike. Medication for headaches, balms for muscle soreness, and other emergency essentials will come in handy.
Food and Water
When going on most hikes, you’ll be moving further away from civilization and require enough food and water to keep you going. Therefore, pack some snacks you can reach out for during the hike and ensure that they are the most energy-giving foods. Consider including lunch bars, a sandwich, and nuts, among other food options.
On the other hand, your water intake will vary depending on the weather. If it is too hot, ensure that you carry a lot of water, but if you are hiking in cooler temperatures, you can get away with at least 2 Litres of water.
To make your water easily accessible, you can invest in a hydration pack to stay on top of your water intake. In addition, ensure that you pack enough food and water that will sustain you throughout your hike.
Map and Compass
Navigation is an essential aspect to consider when planning a hiking trip. You need to adequately equip yourself to ensure that you keep to your desired trail.
Depending on your expertise and hiking area, you can carry a map or a compass. However, ensure that you always have a map to avoid wandering into places you’d rather avoid and losing your way.
Sunscreen and Sunglasses
Having sunglasses to protect your eyes from the hot sun and applying SPF to combat the effects of UV rays will be essential. Whether or not the sun is out, you should always have them with you. The weather may change and negatively affect you if you don’t adequately prepare yourself.
