Spending a day in nature can do a lot for both your body and mind. It is a great way to relax and unwind after a long and stressful week. There are many activities you can do such as walking, jogging, bike riding, and hiking. If you enjoy hiking and exploring your surroundings, there are many places you can go, and surely you have your favorite trail. However, if you haven’t done this before, and are preparing for your first hike, keep reading this text to learn which items you should bring with you.
Let’s start with clothes. First of all, you need hiking boots. Since you will be walking for hours, you need comfortable shoes. When purchasing a new pair, you should get ones that are water resistant, have great ankle support as well as soft underfoot cushion layer. Also, make sure that they are light since you will have to carry them in your backpack when you aren’t hiking.
Furthermore, make sure to bring warm layers and waterproof clothes if necessary. Always check the weather forecast before setting out. If there is even slightest possibility of rain, bring appropriate clothes. Since weather can change quickly it is important to be prepared for everything. A storm can quickly roll in, and your sunny and warm experience can turn into a cold and wet one. In addition, it is always a good idea to bring a wind jacket especially if you are at altitude. Google JayArr Threads website and find excellent hiking boots, waterproof jackets and also other pieces of equipment.
We are moving on to water and food. You should always bring more water and shanks then you think you’ll need, especially if you are going on a hike with friends or family members. If you don’t drink enough water while hiking, not only do you risk dehydration but also altitude sickness. In order to avoid them, you should drink water slowly and frequently. However, if you get signs of altitude sickness such as headache, nausea or fatigue, you should drink electrolyte-enhanced water. When it comes to food, bring snack bars that are rich in sodium and carbs, but also dried fruits and nuts that will give you an energy boost.
If you are hiking somewhere you have never been before, make sure to bring a map of some other navigation tool. Use maps that have marked trails on them or use some smartphone app that will track your location via GPS.
Another important thing you should bring with you is a first aid kit. It should consist of bandages, gauze pads, pain killers, disinfecting ointment, and so on. You can easily cut yourself or sprain an ankle so it is essential to bring a lightweight first aid kit.
In addition, it is important to bring sun protection. It doesn’t matter how hot it is, you will spend your entire day in the sun, and you have to protect your skin. Also, you can use a hat, glasses or a long-sleeved shirt.
Lastly, don’t forget to bring a flashlight or headlamp if you are going to spend the night camping. Choose something that is lightweight and small and that you can carry in your backpack.
All in all, this is some essential gear you should pack for your hiking trip. The most important thing is to carefully plan every aspect of it in advance so that you don’t forget something.
Nina Smith