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Hiking Companion: Easy guide on what to wear, hiking essentials, safety and checklists

I carry tow straps, a shovel, and chain saw, the latter in case a tree falls blocking my return trip. Now in my early 70s, I have to limit my distance and type of terrain due to knee and back problems.

But, do not plan to stop hiking anytime soon. I suggest Bear Spray for animals. Bear spray is extremely effective and will not permanently hurt the animal.


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Several sizes are available, including 3. The Natrapel sprizer sprayer works much better—the Sawyer sprayer is weaker and it dribbles all over your spraying hand when using it. However, what works for me is a macho jumbo knife tools and an old sock that I wrap around my head insulation.

I also agree with one comment about carrying a good gun. Better to be safe than dead. Most bears will chill if you are smart, but a momma bear will chew you up.

the 10 essentials (plus 1):

On the comment with baby wipes, I avoid anything that has a sweet smell, and I find that toilet paper is much better, due to the fact that it seconds as a backup fire starter. Instead of matches, I carry two lighters. Not really the conventional way to do things, but it does the trick. A little flame will light my kindling, even in decent wind. I like how Phil points out that you need also learn how to use the map and compass, not just have them in your backpack.

Hiking Gear List

These lists need to be adjusted according to season and area. I just read about a hiker who got a helicopter flight from leaving a couple of inches skin visible at her ankles. She was an experienced, but had an unexpected reaction to a particular strand of bugs. Also, due to our location, sun protection is not needed in the middle of winter or artificial lighting around midsummer.

So, I think these lists should have some indication of the area and season they are for. Another way to approach the list making would be to list what can go wrong and then figure out how to handle the incident. More experienced people would likely benefit from a list like that. If you can not resolve a capsize, you should not go kayaking. It would be interesting to see a list written from this viewpoint.

Your email address will not be published. Learning how to use a compass at a basic level soon follows. You can bring them if you want, but nothing is more reliable than a map or compass. Sunglasses can also be very helpful, particularly in winter, to prevent snow blindness which is temporary. Illumination — You should always carry a headlamp or a flashlight and some extra batteries. You can also assemble your own for much less. Fire — If you unexpectedly have to spend a night out because you misjudged the distance you needed to hike, you got lost, hurt, or someone in your group is hurt, you want to have the option to make a fire.

This means you should practice making a fire and have the means to reliably light one if necessary. You can also carry matches for convenience, but these can get damp. That, a small roll of duct tape, and a few safety pins are all you really need to patch up broken or torn gear.

The 10 essentials for hiking and camping | MEC Learn

I usually drink a quart of water before I go hiking and then drink 1 quart after every two hours. I rarely carry more than 3 quarts on a hike 6 pounds of water, and just resupply from natural sources as needed. Previous Slingfin 2Lite Tent Review. Next Granite Gear Blaze A. Thomas August 12, at Susan May 26, at Lloyd F Reese February 4, at 4: Terry Jack November 14, at 7: Donna August 14, at 9: Grandpa August 31, at Jonathon Julian Rambo October 24, at 3: Dan February 4, at 2: Timo Kiravuo February 25, at 4: Angie March 3, at Leave a Reply Cancel reply Your email address will not be published.

No duplication without permission. Rain Jacket and Pants. Light My Fire Fire Steel. Despite their best intentions, do NOT let anyone else pack your things!

10 Essentials

Nor should you pack theirs. Not bringing enough food. Snacks only get you so far. Nothing beats a hot meal, even in summer. My 1st kit is as follows: Some hikers may think it's a bit excessive, but I rather have it and not need it, than need it and not have it. I am about to go on my first hike. I would love to have all this stuff but I am not sure what I should get for this first time out. We are going on an easy hike one day, just in and out before dark. We are going to be in the sun for the hike and we are in Northern Colorado.

Thanks for sharing this post. If anyone is looking for a bag to use they should also check out this giveaway by Uber Pakk, giving away this cool foldable backpack that anyone can WIN. I would like to note that you should get waterproof matches rather than just any regular match. And also I have a snake bite kit in my backpack. Helped a lot, but i have a question.

What type of clothing is great for rocky terrain? All the way from Chaclacayo, Peru. Paolo - I don't think that clothing is dependent on the terrain. The temperature, weather, and time of year determine what clothing is needed. The terrain would determine what kind of footwear is needed. The rougher and rockier the ground is, the heavier and more resilient a shoe would need to be. We are planning to hike the APT clear thru I can't wait my best friend and I are starting the "getting fit " and saving part of the planning Anyone have any advice on brand names and shopping places?

It must be better if you even add bluetooth speaker under the gadget list. I feel it is pretty necessary: Hoping to solo the Iceland North to South approx. Andre - Very cool! See this page and this page for info from a couple guys that hiked Iceland. You just resupply the consumables as they run out. And you might need warmer or lighter items as the general temps change over months. Certainly if you are hiking many areas in Canada or northern USA you may encounter bears. It may be wise to take bear spray and bear bells.

I take it a step further and take bear bangers that fit my flare gun. Both handy to have if something happens in a remote area. I also carry an emergency beacon strobe. It's light and may save your life.

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