National Hiking Day is coming soon on November 17. It’s a perfect time to get outside. You can enjoy nature and get some exercise. But hold on! Do you know how to stay safe on your hike?
Being prepared is super important. Experts tell us about the “10 Essentials” for hiking. These are things you should always carry. They help keep you safe. They are useful if you get lost or hurt. Even on short walks, these items are a good idea. Let’s look at what you need!
Your Pack for Safe Hiking
What should you put in your backpack? Think about safety first. Imagine if you twist an ankle. What if the weather suddenly changes? These items will help you. They have changed over time. The Mountaineers group first made this list long ago. They update it as new gear comes out.
Here are the 10 items you need:
- Navigation: How will you find your way? Bring a map and a compass. You can also use a GPS device. A good GPS like the Garmin inReach Mini 2 costs about $399. It helps you find your path. It can even send help messages.
- Headlamp: What if it gets dark? A headlamp lets you see. It keeps your hands free. The Black Diamond Spot 400-R Headlamp costs around $50. Always pack extra batteries too.
- Sun Protection: The sun can be strong. Protect your skin and eyes. Wear sunglasses and a hat. Put on sunscreen. A sun hat like the REI Co-op Sahara costs about $35.
- First-Aid Kit: Small cuts or scrapes happen. A first-aid kit helps. Get one made for hikers. The Adventure Medical Kits Mountain Series Hiker Kit costs around $30. It has bandages and medicines.
- Knife: A knife or multi-tool is very useful. You can cut rope. You can open food packages. The Gerber Gear Suspension NXT Multi-tool costs about $35. It has many tools in one.
- Fire Starter: What if you get cold? A way to start a fire is key. Bring a lighter, waterproof matches, or a fire steel. The UST Stormproof Match Kit costs about $15. It works even when wet.
- Shelter: You might need a quick shelter. An emergency blanket or a lightweight tarp is perfect. The SOL Emergency Bivvy costs around $20. It keeps you warm and dry.
- Extra Food: Always pack more food than you think you need. Energy bars and dried fruit are great. They give you power. Clif Bars cost about $1.50 each.
- Extra Water: Bring plenty of water. Also, pack a way to clean water. A water filter is super important. A Hydro Flask bottle costs about $50. A Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter costs around $40. It makes stream water safe to drink.
- Extra Clothes: The weather can change fast. Bring extra layers of clothes. A warm jacket like the Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket costs about $230. Good hiking socks are also a must. Smartwool socks cost about $24.
Shopping for Your Hiking Gear
You can find hiking gear at many stores. Places like REI Co-op sell lots of items. You can also shop online. Many brands make great outdoor products. Osprey makes good backpacks. Hydro Flask sells strong water bottles. Garmin makes GPS devices.
It is smart to check your gear. Make sure everything works. Do you have fresh batteries? Is your first-aid kit full? These checks take little time. They can save big trouble on the trail.
| Item | Why You Need It | Example Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Navigation | To find your way | $399 (GPS) |
| Headlamp | To see in the dark | $50 |
| Sun Protection | To shield from sun | $35 (Hat) |
| First-Aid Kit | For small injuries | $30 |
| Knife | For many uses | $35 |
| Fire Starter | To make a fire | $15 |
| Shelter | For sudden storms | $20 |
| Extra Food | For energy and emergencies | $1.50 (per bar) |
| Extra Water | To stay hydrated | $50 (bottle) + $40 (filter) |
| Extra Clothes | For changing weather | $230 (jacket) |
Hiking is a fun activity for everyone. It helps you explore amazing places. You can see new plants and animals. Remember these 10 essentials for your next adventure. They will help you stay safe. They will make your hike even better.
Do you know about the history of hiking? You can learn more about hiking and its origins on Wikipedia. Also, check out National Park Service tips for safe outdoor fun. Get ready to hit the trails! Happy National Hiking Day!
