Are you considering going out for a day hike to try out new things in your life or to freshen up your mind? If you are, but you are worried about preparing for a day hike, then you have nothing to worry about! We are going to give you a complete list of day hiking essentials.
Here is the thing, whether you are new or vastly experienced at this, you still need to prepare thoroughly for a day hike. Day hikes can be a great way of forgetting the weariness of everyday life, but if you don’t prepare well, you might end up having the worst time of your life.
So, you can understand the importance of preparing for a day hike. Let’s quickly get on with it and help you get ready for an adventure!
The Essentials for a Day Hike
1. Backpack
At first, you need a backpack. Why? – Well, the answer is simple; you need a backpack which will help you carry all the essentials you need for the hike. You have to keep in mind that the backpack needs to have the capacity to fit all your essentials and withstand harsh conditions.
2. Clothing Based on Weather Conditions
Secondly, you need to consider what clothes you are going to wear for the hike. Here, you need to take the weather into consideration and dress accordingly. But we suggest you wear clothes that can help in evaporating the sweat from the skin as it will be a long journey.
3. Boots for Hiking
You need to wear shoes or boots that are suitable for a hike. The shoes must provide good grip, running comfort, quick-drying, and support for avoiding blisters. So, if you have these qualities in the boots already, then you are good to go. If not, get new ones matching the characteristics mentioned above.
4. Navigation Materials
Here the two must-have navigation materials are a map and a compass. Before going on a hike, we suggest you learn how to read a map and follow it properly. You are also advised to know how a compass works. And a tip for you is to keep the map wrapped with a material that can keep it protected from water.
5. Food and Water
Now, as you will be away for a while, you will need food to function properly. So, pack some food with high nutritional value that is small, like nuts, jerky, protein bars, and dried fruits. Bring enough water to keep yourself hydrated and to cool your body if it gets hot.
6. First-Aid Kit
You can get injured while you are on a hike, so you must carry a first-aid kit with you. Sometimes you can get first-aid kits already prepared in small size, which is perfect for day hikes. But it is essential to carry one with you no matter what.
7. Necessary Tools
It is highly suggested to carry a small knife during a day hike. But you can be smarter and bring a multi-tool knife like a Swiss Army Knife. Here you will have the option of having several repair tools. The best part is that it is very light in weight!
8. Light
You never know what you might encounter in a day hike despite all that planning. So, it is always best to carry a headlamp with extended battery life or a small torchlight, at the very least. Having these around will help if things don’t go as planned.
9. UV Protection
Since you are going for a day hike, you will be exposed to a lot of sunlight and, consequently, harmful UV rays. To protect yourself from the UV rays, carry some sunscreen, lip balm, glasses, hat, etc., with you.
These will keep you safe in the sunlight and also somewhat help to stay hydrated longer. Remember to carry these items even if it’s cloudy. You never know when you will need them.
10. Fire
When you are going for a day hike, you might never know when the weather will get harsh. At that time, having fire can be a lifesaving thing! So, we recommend you carry two small lighters with you.
It would be best if you kept them both in a dry place to prevent them from getting wet. They will enough for starting a fire during a hike.
11. Hand Sanitizer
Sometimes, people become sick during the hike due to dirty hands. So, we suggest you carry a sanitizer just in case. Keeping your hands clean will only help you enjoy the experience properly.
12. Neck Wallet
This is something that is getting popular these days. You can keep your important belongings like your passport, phone, wallet, etc. in the neck wallet during a hike. It stays securely with you around your neck.
Lastly, we would like to mention the trekking poles. These are always not essential, but if you are going for a hike on a long, uphill trail, trekking poles will help you. So there you have it! With these, you will be ready for a day hike.
Conclusion
After going through this guide, we hope that you are not anxious anymore. We certainly hope you are excited beyond your imagination! Just go through this guide carefully, and you will be as ready as you ever can be for a day hike.
Now that you know the day hiking essentials, start packing. Good luck with your hike!