You’re going to be going out on your first hike during the weekend. You know that you’re going to need hiking sticks for the trip. They’ll help you keep your balance on the trail and make walking easier.
You’re not sure what else you need to bring with you, though. A backpack is a given. You won’t be able to carry your gear around otherwise.
You’re also going to need sunscreen and a map to prevent yourself from getting lost. These are only a few essentials that will get you through your hike. Keep reading for a complete list of items that you can’t go without.
1. Hiking Sticks
Before you brave these great falls hiking trails, you’re going to need hiking poles. They stick in the ground and help you get over complex terrain without falling over.
They also reduce fatigue and prevent you from putting quite as much stress on your joints during the hike. Getting the hang of using them can be a bit difficult, but once you get going, it will become second nature to you.
2. Backpack
Backpacks are sort of an obvious essential. If you don’t have one, you would have to carry all your gear in your hands, which is impossible.
For a short hike, you won’t need one that’s too big. About 20 liters will be enough to hold your water bottle, first aid kit, food, navigation tools, cellphone, and other necessities.
3. Map
You can find a map for most trails online. Our advice is to print one out before you go on your hike. You see, as you walk along the path, you’ll come across many forks in the road.
If you don’t have something with you to sort of show you where you’re going, you’ll find yourself getting lost more often than not.
4. GPS Device
On top of having a map, we also advise you to bring along a GPS device. Having it will help steer you in the right direction if you find yourself wandering off the trail.
If you don’t have enough room in your pack to bring an entire GPS, you can download an app to your phone.
5. Sunscreen
Since you’re going to be spending an entire day out in the sun, you need to bring some sunscreen with you. If you don’t, you’ll regret all your life decisions when you’re burned to a crisp later.
On top of sunscreen, you should also consider slipping lip balm into your pack. There are plenty of brands out there that include sunscreen to some degree.
Hiking Sticks and Other Essential Gear
As you can see, before you hit the trail, there are quite a few things that you need to pick up. Hiking sticks are a no-brainer, but you should also have a backpack, sunscreen, a map, and a GPS device. The last thing you want is to get sunburned, or worse, lost.
Are you looking for more tips that will help you get through your next hike? Check out the Lifestyle & Health section of our blog for all the latest advice.
