What to Pack for a Hiking Trip: Your Ultimate Guide
By: Maria Hareem
Tags: Hiking Gear, Hiking

Spring break is just around the corner and you are all set to hit the trails but don’t know how to pack? Well,smart and easy does the trick.Packing perceptively is one of the key to bagging the summit successfully.But you have to consider where you are headed to,how cut-off the place is and what the weather forecast is telling.Here is our list of things to pack:

Backpack: A lightweight and comfortable backpack is necessary for carrying the gear you’ll need.You should pick a backpack that has user-oriented storage compartments and is just the right size for your need.

Navigation Tools: A topo map and a compass are your go-to guardian whenever you are about to get lost or setting foot in a new territory so they are must haves.You could also use a GPS device but unlike former devices it needs a battery so you must keep a USB power bank in case it needs a recharge.Map should be kept in a water-proof map-sack to keep it dry and protected.

For navigating in the dark,headlamps and flashlights (or mobile built-in) are the necessary devices you must have even if you are planning a day-hike.

Photo by Banff and Lake Louise Tourism

Hydration: No-one wants to come back from a trip dehydrated which was meant to be a wonderful experience.You should browse about water resources on your route and have a water purifier so you can replenish whenever the opportunity comes and don’t have to carry extra weight by loading on water bottles.Statistically two-litre per person is minimum you could start your hike with.

Nutrition: It is recommended to pack food which is nourishing to have a safe food experience.Opt for dry and canned goods which do not require refrigeration and have a longer shelf life like energy bars,fruits like bananas ,apple,oranges,nuts,seeds etc.

Clothing: Wear clothes which have simple layering,insulation against the sun and have quick dry property as a caution for unexpected climate changes.

Foot Wear: Footwear depends on where you are hiking, whether it is a rocky trail or a smooth trail.Hiking boots are sufficient for both cases while running trail shoes are ideal for the latter one.

First-Aid Kit: For unprecedented events on a hiking trip , a first-aid kit is necessary.Most hikers or backpackers carry a ready-made first-aid kit which provides basic equipment to treat minor injuries and illnesses.You could customise the kit according to your personal preferences as you become a seasoned hiker.

Personal Items: It is rational to keep your personal identity on yourself all the time.It is recommended that you keep your personal ID,credit cards and cell phone with you so that they can be availed in case of emergency.

Miscellaneous Essentials:In addition to the things mentioned above ,here is a small list of tools that are also necessary:

an emergency shelter if you are on a multi-day backpacking trip.

a knife or a multi-tool,a whistle,tenacious tape,climbing rope,insect repellent.These things come handy in time of need.

fire starters,lighters to build fire in nasty weather conditions.

That’s it.This list provides a pretty much basic guide but you can modify it according to the requirement of the hiking trip.I hope this guide helps you pack aptly and make your trip an unforgettable one.