Is going on a hike for the first time on your list of things to do in the near future? If so, you can do a few things to prepare yourself to enjoy your new hiking adventure without worry.
Hiking is a great way to calm your nerves and take away anxiety, that is if you’re prepared for it with some hiking necessities. Below is a list of ideas that you might find helpful to take with you on your next outdoor adventure.
Hiking necessities
Backpack
When hiking a short trail you won’t really need a specific hiking backpack you can use whatever backpack you have around your house, it will work fine. Something you will want to make sure of is that it is a comfortable one to wear and that it is big enough to hold all your hiking necessities.
Map of the trail system
If you are going hiking and not too familiar with the area pack a map of the trails that you will be going on. Sometimes there are maps at the beginning of the trailhead. You could take a picture of it with your phone so you will have it with you just in case you get lost. Another thing you could do is download an app for trails to help you stay on track.
Hiking Boots
A very important item to have is a good pair of hiking boots. When I first started hiking I didn’t think that this was such a big deal so I would go on some trails in footwear that I shouldn’t have. After a long day hiking in inappropriate shoes your feet, back, and hips will suffer trust me.
Flashlight
Packing a small flashlight might come in handy if it gets dark. You could always use the flashlight on your phone as well but having a small backup flashlight will be useful if you don’t carry a cell phone or if your phone loses charge.
Sunscreen
You can apply sunscreen before you head out on your hike but take some along if it’s super sunny and if you’ll be out for a long time so you can reapply when you need to.
Bug Spray
You are going to want to pack some bug spray to keep those nasty bugs away.
Cell Phone
Having your cell phone with you while you hike is a good idea for obvious reasons. I’m sure you’ll want to take pictures along the way of amazing scenery or animals, Also having it with you will allow you to stay in contact with your friends. It can act as a flashlight using an app on your phone. I had to use this option a few times when the trail in the woods I was on took longer than expected, it started to get too dark to see the path. My cell phone was a lifesaver.
Hand Wipes
These will come in handy if you want to quickly clean your hands up before eating your snack. When you’re hiking you might not have access to running water for a while. Toss a few in your bag and you’re good to go.
Small umbrella
Hat
Keep the sun out of your eyes and protect your head with a hat. I love this one because it goes with several hiking outfits.
Lip Balm
This one is great because it has spf 30 so it will work awesome to keep your lips protected from the sun.
Light Jacket
Packing a light jacket will benefit you if you are hiking in the mountains or wherever the weather changes frequently. It can be rolled up in your bag so it won’t take up too much room.
Lighter
It’s always a good plan to have a lighter with you. You never know when you might need it.
Energy Rich Snacks
After you have been hiking for a while you will probably want to stop and take a little break for a chance to refuel. I suggest packing more than just a few granola bars if you’re going to be hiking for a while.
Water
When hiking it is important to stay hydrated you can get yourself a hydro pack backpack so you can stay hydrated as you go or just take a water bottle along. Both ways work great for keeping you hydrated while you are on your hike.
Small First Aid Kit
Having a small first aid kit along with you will help you in those times when you fall down unexpectedly and scrape your leg. You can clean it up with the wipes and bandage it up right there and you’ll be good to go.
Compass
Wherever you hike you’ll want to pack a compass so you will know what direction you are going or need to go in case you get lost.
Extra Pair of Socks
Just in case your feet get wet while you are out hiking you’ll want to pack an extra pair of socks.
Sunglasses
To protect your eyes while you are out you should wear sunglasses while you are on the trail. I can’t go anywhere outdoors without sunglasses.
Hiking list recap
- Backpack
- Map of the trail system
- Hiking Boots
- Flashlight
- Sunscreen
- Bug Spray
- Cell Phone
- Hand wipes
- Small umbrella
- Hat
- Lip balm
- Light Jacket
- Lighter
- Energy rich snacks
- Water
- Small first aid kit
- Compass
- Extra pair of socks
- Sunglasses
I hope this list was helpful to you and that you enjoy your time hiking. For a list of reasons, hiking is a good idea for you, check out my other blog post 11 reasons hiking is good for your soul if you are looking for some inspiration.