If you’re planning a hike, we’re here to offer some help. In this post, we take a look at some of the essentials that you’ll need to take with you so that you can thrive, no matter what nature throws at you. Here’s what you need.
Portable Shelter
Even if you’re not planning on camping overnight, it’s a good idea to take some sort of portable shelter with you on your trip. You never know when the heavens are going to open or when a storm approaches. Having shelter you can put up in a hurry is a great way to stay dry and cosy in all weathers. It’s also great as a backup plan. Sometimes you can miss your connections, forcing you to camp out. If you don’t have a tent, you can find yourself in serious trouble fast.
Extra Water
Packing just enough water for your trip is generally a bad idea. Estimate how much water you’ll need and then add 50 percent. It’s better to overestimate than underestimate.
Headlamp
Carry torches are okay. But in today’s hiking world, headlamps are the gold standard. These fit around your cranium like a regular headband, but have a helpful light at the front which always shines in the direction you face. They make finding things in your tent at night easy.
Topographical Map
If you’re going hiking off road, be sure to take a topographical map and a compass with you. These show you things like the contours of the land, buildings, rivers and viewpoints. They make it much easier for you to see where you are and are a great backup if your GPS runs out of battery.
Accurate Watch
Being able to tell the time while you are out in nature is essential. Otherwise, you only have a vague idea that it’s morning, midday or evening by the position of the sun.
There are many different types of outdoor watches you can check out. Many come with helpful waterproofing and robust faces that can withstand knocks and scrapes here and there.
Personal Locator Beacon
If you’re really heading out into the middle of nowhere, then you might want to invest in a personal locator beacon. These rely on the global positioning satellite network, not regular phone masts. And so they can be a great way to provide authorities and rescuers with your location in the event of an emergency.
Sunscreen
Being outside all day long can take its toll on your skin. So it’s a good idea to wear as much sunscreen as you can. If you want to go for full protection, wear a balaclava over your face and neck. This should protect you against the vast majority of sun damage and will also help prevent wind burns too.
Fire Lighters
Fire lighters are another essential camping accessory that everyone should have with them at all times. These make it easy to stay warm if you happen to find yourself stuck in the wilderness for whatever reason overnight.
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