So you are going on a hike in the mountains and you are wondering what to bring. A lot of that depends on how long you will be staying out and the time of year as well as the local terrain but some of the answers are really the same no matter where it is that you will be hiking. I’ve hiked the Appalachian Trail in several states and I have to say that some of the most necessary things that you should have with you are some of the most basic as well. Here are a few things that you really can’t do without on a hike if you want to really enjoy yourself.
A great pair of boots will help you to go further. I have spent a lot of money on great boots and at other times I have bought the cheapest pair of boots that I could find. The more expensive boots are warmer and more comfortable and that goes a long way in helping you to make more out of your trip. Some parts of the trail, if you end up in these areas will wear out a pair of boots very quickly, so do invest in a good pair of boots.
Walking sticks are a great asset when you are hiking. They help you to be stable and give you a boost when you need one. Another advantage is the fact that walking sticks take some of the weight off of your hips and ankles as well as your knees and can help you to endure longer on the trail. Something else that I’ve learned is that Nordic walking sticks are much better for being on the trail. They give you extra stability in tough areas and then really decrease the wear and tear on your lower body. If you haven’t tried them yet you really should.
There are a lot of different things that you could pack for your trip if you chose to bring a different backpack for example the clothes that you wear at home with you may not be suitable for a hiking trip. Hiking clothes need to be more durable and lightweight and easy to carry so try to invest in a good pair of clothes that are comfortable and durable.
So what will you be bringing with you? Your sleeping bag is going to be one of the most important items for you to consider. You will see a huge range of what people bring on their trip ranging from 25 to 150 litres and generally a very small pack size.
What you are going to need on your trip will be a good first aid kit, make your own or buy one with all the essentials included. Make sure that it is well insulated and is a good fit for you. If you are scouting for the perfect hiking trip take a look at what is popular and see who usually takes what. By knowing this information you will be able to make decisions on what to bring and what not to bring,areas that may need filling will be easier to do. By knowing this information you will be able to make sure what you need is packed and taken with you.
Fitness is something that we all need to keep in mind.If you’re not in the best shape you won’t enjoy your hiking trip. Being in the best shape is a simple thing, all you need to do is set yourself a challenge and see how you can lose weight and keep it off. If you really are not into sports then I recommend booking a room in a decent hotel, you can still have a good time but it’s not nearly as much fun as meeting new people.
Now I’m not saying that you have to take everything including the kitchen sink, that’s not it at all, but you do have to be aware of your limitations. Going to the gym three times a week will destroy your flexibility.
Orama walking is a great way to break things down into simple to tackle items. Hiking is a good exercise but take it one step at a time.
Here are a few more tips that will help you have a better camping trip:
- Take a camera or a video camera with you to capture the memories.
- Pack smart.
- Take only what clothing you think you’ll need-load up what you need and don’t wear it
- Take the time off. Don’t go for a long 6-7 day hike and return home Hamline Lake to your 5 star hotel only to discover that you’ve forgotten something essential. Leave something behind.
- Leave the secrets behind.
Each person has their own secrets. Nobody is perfect and we all have screwed up on occasion. Nobody is perfect but we can each improve our relationships and ourselves.
After all, screwing up means you’ve learned something.
I’ve suggest you take a digital camera or a video camera with you to capture your hikes. Not only will you create visual records of your camping trip but you’ll have your hikes on film.
If you don’t get it… well, you can leave it behind.
