What gear do I need to go hiking?
- on 03.27.10
- Hiking Gear
- Digg
- Del.icio.us
It is my first time going on a hiking trail and I want to know what kind of gear I will need. Help!
Thanks.
It’s a 3.5 mile linear trail.
Check the bottom link for the 10 essentials.
You will need sturdy shoes that are broken in. A day pack with a hydration system would be nice. And some people like to use a hiking pole. You might like to bring a camera and binoculars. Always carry a whistle in case you get seperated from your group. I always carry a canister of pepper spray (for just in case).
Above timberline, bring one more clothing layer than you think you’ll need. Two rules: Avoid cotton (it dries slowly and keeps moisture close to your skin), and always carry a hat. A windproof, water-resistant fleece jacket can help you withstand ornery mountain conditions.
Rain gear for protection against not only rain, but also wind, cold, and even insects.
Always carry plenty of water and stop often to drink.
You can make your own trail mix with nuts, raisins, banana chips, and chocolate bits. The combination of sugar, fats, and potassium tastes great and provides quick energy, long-lasting calories, and replacement electrolytes.
Prepackaged first-aid kits for hikers are available at outfitters, but you can customize your kit with your favorite blister treatment and ointments for common outdoor ailments (a topical antihistamine, for example, to take care of itches and rashes). Don’t forget the lip balm and sunscreen as well as bug repellent.
hiking boots/shoes
you might want one of those jackets and hats that keeps bugs and mosquitos out
bug spray
binoculars
first aid kit - just incase!
References :
I have been an avid hiker my entire life… you’ll love it. You will need:
-Hiking shoes/boots…. waterproof is best
-wool socks, don’t have to be thick but wool is good because it wicks the water away and helps to prevent blisters.
-water… camel back or water bottle, make sure you bring enough for the return trip
-snack
-waterproof jacket
-sunglasses
-sunscreen?
-layers of clothing is important, bring a couple of layers so that you can add/remove as necessary
-camera
Make sure you stay on the trail and make note of any intersections, trail names, etc. Many hiking trails are a part of a larger network of trails so make sure you keep track of where you’re going. Also, always a good idea to let someone know where you’re going just in case you get lost.
References :
Personal Experience
Check the bottom link for the 10 essentials.
You will need sturdy shoes that are broken in. A day pack with a hydration system would be nice. And some people like to use a hiking pole. You might like to bring a camera and binoculars. Always carry a whistle in case you get seperated from your group. I always carry a canister of pepper spray (for just in case).
Above timberline, bring one more clothing layer than you think you’ll need. Two rules: Avoid cotton (it dries slowly and keeps moisture close to your skin), and always carry a hat. A windproof, water-resistant fleece jacket can help you withstand ornery mountain conditions.
Rain gear for protection against not only rain, but also wind, cold, and even insects.
Always carry plenty of water and stop often to drink.
You can make your own trail mix with nuts, raisins, banana chips, and chocolate bits. The combination of sugar, fats, and potassium tastes great and provides quick energy, long-lasting calories, and replacement electrolytes.
Prepackaged first-aid kits for hikers are available at outfitters, but you can customize your kit with your favorite blister treatment and ointments for common outdoor ailments (a topical antihistamine, for example, to take care of itches and rashes). Don’t forget the lip balm and sunscreen as well as bug repellent.
References :
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ten_Essentials