What could be better than a trip to nature in the company of your best friends or relatives? When the weather is good, then the legs themselves are torn to the path, but the main thing is not to forget the travel accessories that are simply necessary on a hike or will make the rest more comfortable.
At the same time, you also don’t want to overload yourself with unnecessary things. In this article, we will provide you with a list of the most necessary things.
Backpack
So, it all starts with a backpack. Depending on the duration of the hike, its size may also vary. If you go on a one-day picnic, then you don’t need to take a lot of things with you, but still a backpack will be much more convenient than a bag.
If you are going on a long hike, then choose a backpack very carefully. On the one hand, it should be roomy, and on the other, very comfortable. The backpack should not rub the shoulders or cause other inconveniences.
Сlothing
If you go to the forest, then you should protect yourself from insects with the help of pants, socks (you can tuck your pants into your socks) and a light shirt with a long sleeve. In the event that your hike lasts several days, be sure to bring warm clothes with you (a sweater and a warm hat may come in handy at night). This will be convenient for both cool mornings and cold nights.
Shoes occupy a special place. Shoes should be comfortable, the right size, strong and light. You should not wear new shoes on a hike, it is better to give preference to old but proven sneakers or boots. Also be sure to bring a raincoat with you in case of bad weather, even if the forecast promises sunshine.
Food
In nature, your appetite becomes brutal so make sure that you have enough food. If you are going with a group then agree in advance, make a list and prepare accordingly. It is better not to take perishable products but nuts, seeds and cereals will come in handy.
The most enjoyable part of the hike is probably the evening tea by the fire with cookies and condensed milk. Do not forget to take dishes for cooking (pots, spoons, knives) as well as a plate and a cup. Disposable tableware is very convenient on a hike, which then will not need to be washed and it will not break on the way.
Accommodation
For an overnight stay, you need a tent (calculate how many people you will be and how many tents will be needed), a sleeping mat and a sleeping bag. Keep in mind that in a double tent, three or even four people can most often fit.
Bring a sleeping bag and take into account the ambient temperature, so that it is neither hot nor cold. Also in the camp you need hygiene products (toothpaste, brush, soap), a flashlight, matches, first aid kit, and dish-washing detergent.
Preparing for a Hike
Half of the success and a good part of your peace of mind depends on this stage. Decide on a route (if in doubt, choose a ready-made one), study and print a map (or download a GPS track), check the weather forecast and communications.
If this is your first trip or you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to choose a one-day format with a small mileage – 10 to 15 km – without an overnight stay. If spending the night in the forest is an old dream for you, study the parking lots and write down their coordinates. Be sure to tell someone when you are going to return and also tell them where you are going.
1-2 Day Hiking Essentials
1.Backpack: For a one or two day trip, an average volume (40-60 liters) is enough if you plan to go alone or in a small group. For a trip with a family, you should take a larger backpack of 70-90 liters. Don’t forget your rain coat.
2. Thermos or Water Bottle: You will definitely want to drink, and besides, there will not always be sources of water suitable for drinking along the way. A thermos is also convenient because you can carry both hot tea and a supply of refreshing (from a mountain stream!) water in it. And if you grab a thermos for food or a universal one with a double stopper, you can save time and effort on cooking.
3. Rain Protection: Even if the sun is in the weather forecast, rain can start at any minute in autumn. Therefore, take raincoats and a supply of garbage bags on the road – you can pack personal items and food in them.
4. Tent: Single-layer tents are easy to blow through and are suitable for summer outings, while double-layer ones are better suited for an autumn or spring hike. Pay attention to the frame, look at the options with aluminum arcs – they are more reliable.
5. Sleeping Bag: In summer you can take a light sleeping bag. In spring and autumn the nights can be cold, so you need a warmer bag (or take two summer ones and put them inside each other). When choosing, look at the comfort temperature and not just the “extreme” indicator. The temperature at night should be 5-10 degrees higher than the comfort temperature of the sleeping bag. So you will be sure that you will spend the night warm.
6. Mat: An ordinary foam mat will do (but not a yoga mat). An inflatable mat will save you better from night frosts, but can have issues if it deflates during the course of the night.
7.A Set of Personal Dishes and a Snack: The utensils must be impact-resistant and made of strong materials: stainless steel, ideally. Take a quick snack too: sandwiches, nutrition bars and chocolate – you will definitely need energy!
8. Insect Protection: Bring mosquito repellent, especially if you are going camping in early autumn. And also a protective face and body cream to save the skin from cracking or peeling.
9. First Aid Kit: Take the minimum kit with you for treating wounds (bandages, plasters, antiseptics) as well as pills for allergies, pain, eating disorders and the first signs of a cold.
10. Headlamp with Spare Batteries: A headlamp will free your hands and help out after dark. If you’re planning an evening out, bring portable camping lanterns – they’ll light up the campsite and create a special mood.
11. Personal Hygiene Products and Wipes: Prepare a small bag or travel kit in advance with a toothbrush and paste, napkins, toilet paper, lip balm, a towel, etc.
