With the travel windows opening post-pandemic, many of us; are planning to travel in the next few months. Additionally, the summer vacations give us another excuse to plan short or long trips. Mountains are the preferred location during summers. Some prefer family trips, while some adventure souls love hiking.
If you are the one who is planning a hike, then you should read ahead. Whether you are planning a trip with friends or family, someplace closer to home or deep in the mountains, there are plenty of options to explore; however, you need to be ready with certain things. You don’t want to end up in the middle of nowhere stranded!
Planning is the key to any trip here; are a few tips to make your hiking experience great.
Hiking Gear
- Whenever you plan any trip checking the weather conditions of the place you are visiting is imperative. You should ideally keep track till the end of your hike.
- Knowing the weather conditions also enables you to select the apt clothing and shoes for your hike. Wearing quick-drying tees and pants would be ideal. Denim wear is an ‘absolute no’ for hiking.
- We should keep extra clothing for emergencies. You could carry an extra bag to keep your soiled clothes.
- You could carry scarfs, caps or any headgear as per your comfort and weather.
- For UV protection, you should use sunscreens and wear protective eyewear.
- Carrying jackets or additional clothing like woollens, thermals totally depends on the weather conditions.
- Towels and napkins should be handy.
- Another important aspect of your hiking gear is your shoes/boots. Quality, comfort and protection are vital when choosing footwear you intend to wear on your hike.
- Quality footwear is your investment for an ideal hike – it should be of the right fit and comfort, be lightweight and sturdy and waterproof to provide you with good ankle protection and prevent you from falling on slippery roads.
Water & Eatables
- Whether you plan to hike in known or unknown territory, carrying adequate water is an absolute must.
- When you’re hiking, you lose energy faster; carry some energy bars, glucose supplements, biscuits and nuts to keep up the energy levels. You could keep some chocolates too. These will be easy to carry and good to give an energy boost.
- In case you plan to stay at night, you would require adequate food and water supply
Equipment, Accessories & Much more…
- You should carry identity proof along with some emergency numbers written.
- Tactical gear was earlier used only by the military. In current times it has cemented itself into the mainstream. A lot of hikers, mountaineers, campers and hunters prefer them. The term tactical gear came into the market as a way to rebrand and sell unused military gear. Such products are advanced and multifunctional. You could opt for them.
- A backpack that is sturdy and lightweight to keep all your requirements. A quality backpack will give comfort to your shoulders and keep your stuff organised.
- A flashlight or torchlight with extra batteries/charger is an essential you need while you are hiking.
- Power backup for your phones and lights would be helpful.
- A multi-purpose toolset like a swiss knife would be useful.
- First Aid kit containing some emergency medicines like paracetamol, pain killers, electoral water, in case you have vomiting issues, antiseptic cream and liquid and some bandages should be good enough. If you are on some medication, then please do carry the same.
- Trek route and map, some contact numbers if available to connect to the authorities.
- Hiking Pole
- Hygiene supplies – Handwash or hand sanitisers, toothbrush, paste, tissues etc.
- Camera
- Insect repellents
- Whistle & Compass
Weather conditions would facilitate your decision making in planning your trip. If you are going with a tour operator, then co-ordinate with them for planning your luggage. In case, you are going solo, keep in touch with your family/friends. I hope you found this post helpful.
Happy Journey 🙂
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