Essential Hiking Gears

Back in college, we went on a hiking trip for our Physical Education final examination. It was an exciting and memorable experience. Hiking is a excellent way to discover the beauty of nature and be able to gain a better experience with our natural environment. Of course we were not professional hikers back then, so I did not know exactly what to bring along for the trip.

Now, I have the urge to hiking again in the near future, so I think I should start learning more about hiking and hiking equipment that are essential for a safe, fun and worthwhile hiking trip. A friend told me of some basic equipment which is useful on a hike that can be found in a sporting goods store.

Area map and Compass

The map and a compass are another items which a hiker should have that will help us find the right way. It won't be any fun being lost in the woods, that's for sure! Of course learning how to read it and locate yourself on the map first is a good start. Then we can use the map may to tell exactly where we are and which is the right direction with a compass. A working compass usually points towards north so it can help the hiker can go back on trail with ease. The hiker should also know how to use the compass correctly. The sporting goods store attendant may help you learn how to use the topographic map and compass.

Topographic map

A Topographic map is one of the essential things to prepare before hiking. This will help you to keep track of where you are exactly, especially if hiking on a not so populated trail. In case you are lost you can use the map to go back to your base. The topographic map will also feature land surfaces and features like hills, streams, rivers and other terrains.

A Flashlight / Touch, Spare Batteries and Bulbs

During daytime, the sun is a sufficient source of light but when it is already starting to get dark, the flashlight will light your way or will enlighten you as you set up camp. When buying for a flashlight, choose one whose switch is properly working. If the switch turns on easily, it may only drain your flashlight battery unnecessarily. Extra batteries and bulb will also be needed during the hike.

Sunglasses

According to studies, staying in the outdoors for long hours being exposed in the sun’s harmful rays can contribute in the development of eye cataract. Although there are trees in the forest and mountains which can provide shade, sunglasses can help further filter the sunrays and block it in areas with less trees. If hiking on areas with snow and ice, glacier glasses will help avoid snow blindness.

Sunscreen

Another hiking must-have for personal use is sunscreen. The sun’s ultraviolet rays not only affect the eyes but the skin most especially. About fifteen minutes before going out under the sun, apply a sunscreen lotion so it will be entirely absorbed by the skin. There are waterproof sunscreen products which can be used on warm hiking days so that sweat will not dilute and remove the sunscreen from the skin.

First Aid Kit and Others

A first aid kit is one of the essentials in hiking. It should contain all necessary medical supplies to be used on wounds, sickness and minor mishaps. Matches and fire starters are for starting a camp fire or an improvised stove. Swiss knife or multi-purpose cutting tool is for cooking, cutting the rope, etc. A water filter would also be a necessity to be able to drink safe and clean water.