Hiking is a great activity to take part in because it improves your health, gives you a good workout, and lets you enjoy the great outdoors while taking in the beauty of nature. However, when it comes to hiking, preparation is key.
Here is a list of seven items you will need for a long hike to put your mind at ease and know that you have everything you need to have a fantastic time hiking.
Hiking Poles
If you’re going to be hiking for more than a few hours at a time, you will probably want to use hiking poles. While most people think of using trekking poles for hiking in the mountains, they can also be useful on flat trails or even city streets to aid in walking and running.
There are many different ways that trekking poles can be used while walking or running through the woods or city streets. They can help improve your posture and decrease fatigue so that longer or faster hikes are easier on your body. You can use them to help maintain balance when crossing streams, slippery rocks, or steep climbing slopes (especially if those slopes have loose rocks). Some hikers also like using them to help push off from soft ground such as sand or mud, where their feet might sink too far down, making it harder to lift their legs back up again.
Good Hiking Boots
A good pair of hiking boots is essential for any long hike. If you don’t wear the right shoes, your feet will hurt after a few hours. Your boots should fit well, be comfortable, and have good ankle support. They should also be waterproof and breathable so that your feet don’t get too hot or sweaty during the day.
A Backpack
You’ll need a tactical backpack to carry all of your gear on your back while hiking. If you’re going for an overnight trip, choose one with plenty of room for everything you need. It should be spacious enough to store food and water and have extra space for other items like books or games if you think you might get bored along the way.
You may also want a backpack with an external pocket or two to keep things like maps and cell phones close at hand without having to dig through all of your stuff every time something comes up.
Tons of Water
This may seem obvious, but it’s often overlooked when planning a hike. You don’t want to get dehydrated halfway through your trip because you didn’t pack enough water. If possible, bring a refillable water bottle you can fill up at any time. In addition to keeping hydrated, water can be used for cooking or cleaning up after meals during a hike.
Light Snacks
Hiking can be a great workout, but it’s also hard work that burns many calories. You’ll want to keep your energy up by eating healthy snacks along the way. A good rule of thumb is to plan out your meals and bring enough food for two days at a time.
A First Aid Kit
If you get injured while hiking, it could be days before anyone finds you and helps you. Make sure you have a first aid kit with bandages and painkillers so that if something happens to you on the trail, you can take care of yourself until help arrives.
Bug Repellent
The bugs can be a pain when hiking in the woods. They are annoying and can cause serious health problems if they bite you. A good bug repellent will keep these nasty insects away from you and your family so everyone can enjoy hiking without worrying about getting bit.
A good bug repellent should be easy to use, lightweight, and effective at keeping the bugs away. You want something that doesn’t leave behind a greasy mess on your skin or clothes because this could ruin your hike. Many people prefer using natural products, such as those made with essential oils, because they don’t contain harsh chemicals that might irritate their skin or lungs.
Wrap Up
Having the right equipment is critical to being prepared for your hike, especially if you plan on going on a long one. Hiking poles can help you balance on steep trails; boots protect your feet from rocks and other debris; and bug repellent keeps the bugs from eating you alive.
Keep these items handy when packing for your next hiking excursion and stay safe and healthy.
