If you’re travelling around the world, you’re probably considering hiking up some unique spots. After all, seeing the beauty of the natural landscape can enrich you more than any tourist trap could. But whether you’re an experienced hiker or a first-timer, you should know the right items to bring on your trip. You can also visit blog.camperville.net, to know more what to bring in your hiking trip.
You’ve got the tent, the sleeping bag, and some food for the day(s) you’ll be out. Unfortunately, this isn’t all you should include in your backpack. Here are the top 4 necessities you might have overlooked while packing for your next hiking trip.
1) Military Watch
You don’t have to be a veteran to use a military watch in your day-to-day life. Not only are they handy on the go, but they’re perfect for hiking trips in any terrain. These watches aren’t just for telling the time. They’re an essential tool for a hiker of any skill level!
The lower priced ones will lack the most useful features, though. If you want a watch that will be your new best friend for years to come, then you’ll have to save up for a good one. You can compare some of the higher budget watches here. As you can see, many upper segment watches have features including but not limited to:
- Accurate timing based off of time calibration radio signals
- Automatic and/or button operated LED backlights
- Stopwatches and alarm clocks
- Calendars
- Altimeter
- Barometer
- Thermometer
- Compass
Military grade watches are durable as well as versatile. Good tactical watches often feature water resistance up to a certain depth, shock resistance, and mud resistance. Since they’re made for tough battlefields, good ones can certainly withstand rain, snow, or dirt along your nature trails.
2) Hydration Packs
You should drink water before, during, and after any exercise you do, according to WebMD. This includes hiking, no matter how long your trip. One convenient way you can drink your water while you hike is through using a hydration pack.
Hydration packs are backpacks (or waist packs) that can carry water and other hiking necessities. They have a tube which attaches to your strap so you can drink with no hands while you walk. They also range in size depending on how extensive your trip will be.
3) Trekking Poles
Long walks on rough terrain can take a toll on your knees, ankles, and feet! No matter how physically fit you may be, trekking poles can help you walk longer and safer. These polls create an extra point of contact with the ground, improving traction and propelling your body forward while taking weight off your back.
These poles have many other uses too, like as a probe for thorny plants and spider webs. In the worst case scenario, it can even help you defend against wild animals. They’re also sturdier than most tent poles, so use it to erect your shelter in a pinch.
4) Sunscreen
The sun can be your most formidable foe on a long hike. But even if it’s not sunny outside, you still have to protect yourself from its harmful rays. Sunscreen is a very often-overlooked essential you should have on you every time you step outside!
The American Cancer Society has these three tips to prevent sunburns (which could possibly develop into cancer!):
- Buy a sunscreen with “broad spectrum” detection. This means it will protect against UVA and UVB rays. All sunscreen options protect against UVB rays, which are what mainly cause sunburns and skin cancer. UVA rays, however, also contribute to premature aging and skin cancer.
- Reapply sunscreen at least every two hours. It’s most likely you will sweat your sunscreen off, or accidentally run it off in the water. While some brands claim to be “water resistant”, this isn’t the same as “waterproof”. Reapplying the sunblock ensures you’ll be protected all day long.
- Always use sunblock with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 30 or higher. SPF 30 will protect against about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 15 will only protect against 93%. The higher SPF you have, the more protection you have. Just keep in mind that nothing will be able to claim that it protects you from the sun 100%!
Check Your Bag Before You Head Out
One of the most important things you need to do before your hike is take the time to prepare properly! With these tips in mind, you should have a safer, easier trip!
Keep in mind that what gear you need largely depends on what kind of hike you’re taking. If you want a trek through the snow, prepare your snowshoes. If it’s only a day trip, pack light!
Give yourself plenty of time to prepare and check your bag before you head out!
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