Hiking
HIKING 10 ESSENTIALS BY CATEGORY
Create a fanny pack loaded with most of these and carry it on all day hikes. Also wear it on long distance hikes even when not carrying a pack (in camp, trips to water source, etc.). Even day hikers have been out all night, hurt or lost, etc., away from pack or shelter.
Carry the minimum for safety in case of emergency on every hike. This is a list of options. Take some in each category but usually not all. The last six are necessary *extras* in addition to what you already have on you or in your pack (what you expect to use). Study until you know what to take.
- Navigation supplies - map, compass, GPS, watch
- Solar protection - hat, shades, sun screen, lip balm
- Safety supplies - first-aid kit, foot care, whistle, mirror, bandana, insect repellent
- Repair supplies - knife or milti-tool, duct tape, needle, dental floss, etc., cord
- Fire supplies, extra - water proof matches, lighter, magnesium striker, tender
- Illumination, extra - flashlight, headlamp, candle
- Hydration, extra - container, water purifiying supplies
- Nutrition, extra - food (nutrient/calorie dense)
- Insulation, extra - fleece, wind breaker, socks, gloves, etc.
- Shelter, extra - rain jacket, space blanket, poncho, tarp
Before leaving:
- Leave an itinerary with an accountable family member or friend.
- Check the weather but expect it to change.
- Go through your stuff again, with a checklist, to make sure nothing has been omitted.
Make safety a habit:
- Start small in your local park.
- Read up. There is huge info available free. Don’t believe everything that makes someone money.
- Some of your best gear will be homemade.
- Think light weight. Okay, ultralight. For safety and pleasure. More is not better but have enough.
- Practice, practice, practice.
- Consider your mistakes experience and learn from them.
- For wilderness hiking, take courses on orienteering and wilderness first aid.
Remember: a cell phone does not count as or substitute for emergency equipment because in many cases it cannot be counted on. Also, many states charge now you if they have to rescue you and you were not properly equipped or used bad judgement.
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- tjnorth: I spent some time with my sister this summer and she lost about 100 pounds (she won't really say) three years ago by eating the good stuff (veggies,
- brseay: Wow, what incredible pictures! So good to see you pop up here. Many of the regulars have disappeared so it's nice to see a friendly face. My ch
- shoecrazy: Hi Delita! Well, I have soo many challenges... But, I had a trainer who said "you can't out run a bad diet" so my challenge is my keeping my food unde