Travel, Leisure and Recreation

I want to discuss the most important items to include in your pack when hiking, while trying to keep things light. To improve the safety, quality and comfort level of your next hiking trip, these items will be useful for both overnight backpacking and day hikes. Optionally, when bringing a tent, hiking light is still a possibility.

1) First recommendation is to obtain a map of the area that you will be hiking. You don’t want to become lost, so pick up a map at the visitor center or ranger station or from the Internet. If you suffer an injury, you can use the map to aid rescuers in locating you.

2) Number 2 on the list is to bring a map reading compass along. Learn to use it before your trip because there may be a bit of a learning curve. Once you’ve learned how to orient the park map and the compass, you will know what direction you are facing, how to easily correct your course and get back on track.

3) Always carry two, one liter water bottles. Chances are your body will ask for more, but 2 liters will be the minimum for your water intake. It doesn’t take long to become dehydrated when hiking. It is a physical activity that promotes perspiration and therefore water loss. It’s best to bring with you some form of purifier for your water. For personal use, I take liquid treatment with me. Although you can survive a month without food, you will only last a few days without water.

4) It’s possible to spend an unexpected night in the woods. Always have some extra food, enough for an additional day if you need it. A simple approach would be to add meal replacement energy bars to your pack. Try to get bars that are made from whole foods and contain nuts and seeds.

5) Temperatures can drop unexpectedly, especially at nightfall. If your clothes get wet for some reason during your hike and if it starts to get cold, you will have wished you brought some extra changes of clothing. Make sure to wear synthetics as they are more insulative when wet, and dry quickly. down sleeping bags or bivouac bags, packed tightly can be a light-weight addition to your gear that can help keep you alive when sleeping under the stars.

6) Bringing a flashlight and fresh batteries is certainly a great idea. You may want to purchase a headlamp so that you can be hands-free. The light may come in handy because you might unexpectedly end up out there after dark. Negotiating a hiking trail in the dark is dangerous.

7) Bring a small first aid kit with you. Be sure to bring along important items in your first aid kit like blister treatment or moleskin. Taking a basic wilderness medicine course would also be a great idea and may just save your life.

Bring a lighter and matches in a water tight container. Only light a fire in the wilderness as a means to survive. If another layer of clothing will be sufficient to keep your warm, do not light a fire. Remember, only YOU can prevent forest fires

9) A folding camp knife will serve many a purpose. Be sure that the one you choose has a blade that locks when open. I’ve seen knives that don’t lock take off finger tips.

10) Last but not least, UV protection. Bring a hat with a brim, sunblock and a pair of sunglasses if you will be out in the sun for an extended period. Your eyes and skin will thank you.