A hiking trip, especially one in a new, unfamiliar land, is one of the most freeing experiences a traveler can have. There are some people who prefer being in a car or a train for one reason or another, but many will agree that there’s really no substitute for seeing a country on foot. When you’re walking, you get the chance to slow down and take it all in, the way it was intended. This is especially true when you have beautiful nature surrounding you from all sides.
But for first-time hikers or novice travelers, there are things that are easy to forget to pack with us on our journeys. With this short guide, we hope to outline several essential items you should take with you when going on a hiking trip anywhere. Let’s begin!
Headlamp
When taking a hiking trip, never underestimate the importance of having a reliable headlamp packed in your gear. With its hands-free, bright light source, a headlamp can be invaluable for maneuvering in dark places or for tracking a path during night hikes. More than just a simple flashlight, high-end models are adjustable and have different beam ranges that are designed to provide lighting over larger areas or illuminate more distant objects.
Battery-powered lamps may also come with other functions, such as red light beacons and mode and power buttons so you can customize your illumination needs. So don’t forget to bring a headlamp on your next outdoor adventure: you’ll be glad you did.
Knife
Whether you’re a casual day-tripper or a serious long-distance backpacker, a knife is arguably the most vital item to bring along on a hiking trip. From using it to trim back branches, sharpen sticks for trekking poles and tent stakes, prepare meals, cut through fishing line, and create tinder for fires, packing a reliable knife can be essential to ensure your safety in the wilderness.
But don’t forget the importance of knife safety – always keep it responsibly stored when not in use, double check that it’s closed after use, and have knowledge of how to effectively handle your knife before going on your next outdoor adventure.
Water Filtration Device
Packing a water filtration device on your next hiking trip is one of the most vital steps to take when preparing for a hike. Not only does a portable water filtration system save you time and energy by making it easy to find safe drinking water during your outing, but keeping yourself hydrated while out in nature is also essential to your health.
Additionally, these devices work without batteries or electricity, and they can be used to filter anything from rivers and streams to rainwater or snowmelt. A good water filtration device on your next hike will allow you access to clean and safe drinking water wherever you are so that you can spend more time and energy doing the things you love outdoors without worrying about contamination and getting sick.
Lighter
Packing a lighter on your next hiking trip can prove to be incredibly useful. Whether you’re looking to save weight or need an efficient fire-lighting product, a lighter is key in any adventurer’s essential list of items. From cooking a meal on a campfire to melting snow for fresh drinking water during the winter months, a reliable lighter will help boost morale and make your hiking experience much more enjoyable.
Additionally, when it comes to lighting things like candles during the darker evening hours or starting fires to keep warm in chilly climates – having access to a compact and disposable lighter becomes invaluable. While there are other methods of fire-starting, nothing compares to the lightness and versatility of taking along a pocket-sized lighter.
Skincare Products (Especially Sunscreen)
Starting a hiking trip without the necessary preparations can be a costly mistake, and these trips shouldn’t keep you from a healthy skincare routine. Packing skincare products is highly important as your skin cells will be exposed to sunlight and potentially harmful elements in nature for an extended period, which can lead to sunburns, windburns, cracked skin, and other conditions.
Sunscreen should be at the top of your packing list since it will act as a protective layer against the sun and helps prevent skin damage. For typically dry and dehydrated skin, it’s also recommended that you bring moisturizer with hyaluronic acid throughout your journey, as dry air can leave your skin dehydrated by taking away its moisture. You want hydrated skin, free of dead skin cells, to help it feel its best. Drinking water and staying hydrated are also essential for keeping radiant skin. If you have itchy skin or sensitive skin, consider products that are gentle and natural.
Lip balm or chapstick is also essential to keep your lips nourished while you’re out on the trail. And for the sake of comfort, if you suffer from dry skin, dehydration lines under eyes, oily skin, or dullness, there are a number of travel-sized products you can bring that will leave you and your skin feeling comfortable all day. To help lock in moisture, you may consider a CBD facial oil as well. This will lock in moisture and nourish your skin. With these key items packed in your bag, they’ll certainly make a difference in keeping your delicate skin safe from the elements.
Rainwear
Whether it’s a light shower or a downpour, rain can dampen spirits and ruin any excursion if you are not adequately prepared. Having the appropriate protective clothing on hand, such as waterproof outer layers, a glove and/or hat, and sturdy boots with good traction, will make all the difference in your comfort level and your safety. After all, there’s nothing worse than setting out on an adventure only to turn back early because you haven’t taken the necessary precautions.
Even if you don’t expect rain, some waterproof hiking shoes will prove especially useful for stream-crossings and other wet activities. So if you’re planning a hike, make sure to pack some good rainwear for your next outdoor adventure.
First Aid Kit
Any trip into the wilderness can present its own set of perils, and the best way to be prepared for those is to have a first aid kit stocked and ready. Even the most experienced hikers are occasionally met with unexpected situations such as a small cut or a sprained ankle. Having a simple first aid kit on hand ensures that basic medical necessities are available if needed.
Before each hike, make sure to check if your first aid kid needs to be restocked with bandages, painkillers, or ointment, and always take it with you during long hikes. A few minutes’ precaution could end up saving hours in an emergency situation, so it’s well worth bringing along on any journey.
The Bottom Line
Having the right equipment can make all the difference between an enjoyable outdoor experience and a disastrous one, so it’s important to pack wisely for your next hike. Make sure to include items like a lighter, skincare products, rainwear, and a first aid kit in your bag – these will help you stay safe and comfortable during your journey. With these important items in your pack, you can rest assured that you’ll be ready for any challenge the trail throws at you.