There is nothing like the great outdoors to stimulate your senses and inspire you. Setting off into the woods knowing that you have a gorgeous destination ahead can get your adrenaline pumping. Make sure you enjoy the adventure to its fullest by being prepared to face any danger that may lie ahead.
Even though the woods are a great place to escape to, they can also be dangerous if you aren't careful. So before you head out, make sure you have everything you need for a safe trip both in and out of the woods.
Pack Suitable Clothing
The first thing to take into consideration when hiking is the weather. It may be warm at the base of the mountain, but you may find that the top of the mountain has a different climate completely. So the first rule to hiking is to dress in layers and bring spare clothing. You can always take layers off if you get warm, but if you don't have extra clothing with you, you can't protect yourself if you run into inclement weather.
Plan for Rain
Always plan for rain, even if the sky is clear at the head of the trail. Hiking in wet clothing can be miserable, and unsafe. So pack water resistant clothing, such as a poncho or windbreaker, before you head out. These items don't take up much space in your backpack, and can prove invaluable if you find yourself in the middle of a rainstorm.
Wear Proper Footwear
The type of shoes you wear on your hiking trip is also important. If you can, invest in a solid pair of boots that are specifically designed for hiking. They are usually designed to help you get a good grip on uneven terrain, while providing your feet with the proper support needed to keep you comfortable for long periods of time. Whenever possible, choose boots that are waterproof to help keep your feet dry regardless of the conditions.
Pack Plenty of Food
Don't forget to bring plenty of food with you on your trip. You don't have to pack your entire refrigerator, but pack at least a few items to help curb your hunger in case you end up out in the woods longer than you anticipated. Energy bars, fruit, trail mix, cereal and other finger foods will keep for a long time, and can be easy to eat while hiking.
Always Bring Water
Water is essential. Make sure you have plenty of clean drinking water in your backpack for everyone in your party. Clean freshwater can be difficult to come by, and even the freshest stream may be filled with bacteria, so taking a few bottles of water with you will help keep you hydrated while you hike.
Bring Safety Gadgets
In addition to packing the right clothes and food for your trip, you will also want to make sure you have some essential gadgets to help keep you safe. A few items to include are a compass (make sure you know how to use it before you head out), a whistle (in case you run into trouble), a pocketknife (you never know when you will need one), matches, a flashlight, a bandanna (to use as a tourniquet in case you get hurt), insect repellent, and a first aid kit. These items don't take up much room and can make the difference between a successful trip, and trouble on the trail.
Invest in a Good Backpack
With all the safety items you need to bring with you when you go hiking, it doesn't seem possible to pack light, but you can, especially if you are carrying the right kind of backpack. A traditional backpack that you may use for school may work if you aren't traveling far, but if you have something vigorous planned, you will want a backpack that won't strain your muscles. It is important to invest in a good, solid backpack that evenly distributes pressure on your back.
Several different varieties are available, but most backpacks that are specifically designed for hiking have reinforcements such as clasps and bars that run along the side of the bag to help keep the backpack in place while you hike. They also usually have pockets on the outside that can provide you with easy access to water or other important items. So if you plan to make hiking a regular activity, it is worth spending the money to purchase a good quality backpack that will be rugged enough to see you through years of hiking, while providing the right support for your trip.
The feeling of satisfaction when you reach the summit of a mountain is indescribable, but many people underestimate the power of the great outdoors. As satisfying of an adventure as hiking can be, it can also be dangerous if you aren't prepared. So make sure you make it in and out of the woods safely by hiking safe and packing smart. You will enjoy your adventure a lot more if you head out knowing that you are prepared for any obstacle you may encounter.
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