As practice shows, most novice travelers come across the fact that they took a lot of unnecessary things on a hiking trip. In their turn, avid hikers already know what is a heavy backpack with unnecessary things behind the shoulders. They perfectly understand that in addition to things, you still have to carry food, water, a sleeping bag, and a tent. So, let's look at the key things you need to take with you.
1.Backpack
Of course, you need a backpack. This is an indispensable element for camping, along with a sleeping bag and a tent. If you have these three things, the main step towards hiking has already been taken. “Choose the backpack carefully, especially if you plan to move on foot for a long time. For men, a backpack with a volume of 80 liters will be enough. And for women, a volume of 60 liters is suitable. You can walk with a smaller backpack, but then some of the things will have to be tied outside it. Please note that in this case, your clothes may get wet during rain. “ - explains Brid Hernandez, the lifestyle writer at SupremeDissertations and IsAccurate. The large size of the backpack is more practical, you can tighten the straps of the backpack and significantly reduce its volume if it’s needed.
2. Mat
Mats are designed to isolate body heat from the cold of the earth on which you will sleep. Thus, you can safely sleep on the ground and not be afraid to freeze. This is a necessary thing, which is equivalent to a sleeping bag and a tent.
3. Raincoat
Of course, a raincoat can come in handy. Today you can find a wide range that differs both in price and quality. If you decide to buy the cheapest one, then be prepared for the fact that it can quickly break due to branches. Therefore, it is better to buy two to be safe.
For example, there is a poncho that you can throw even on your backpack, and then your entire burden will remain dry. Note that a dry backpack is much easier to carry than a wet one.
4. Clothes and Shoes
You are free to decide what shoes and clothes to choose and wear on a hiking trip. We will only offer you the best options, however, keep in mind that your outfit should be comfortable in any case,
Shoes
- Trainers are lightweight and dry quickly after rain. But this does not apply to models that are too cheap; often they will not survive until the end of the trip.
- Hiking shoes are heavier, but also more stable on mountainous rocks. Also, they protect the foot from dislocation. In combination with special hiking socks, grating callosity into them is almost impossible.
- If you go camping in the summer, take light summer slippers with you. It will be easier for you to walk in them when you set up the camp.
Socks
Take five to seven pairs of socks. You can take a couple of ordinary ones, a couple of warm ones, and get a couple of tourism socks as well. These socks come in handy in bad or cold weather. First, they repel sweat and prevent the appearance of callosities. Warm socks will suit you at night, for example, made from terry or even wool.
Sweatpants
“Sweatpants or leggings are perfect for hiking. If you are used to walking in jeans, then it is strongly recommended not to take them!” - explains Marie Fincher, the content writer at Studicus and TrustMyPaper.
T-Shirts
In summer, it is best to wear a plain cotton T-shirt. It protects against ultraviolet radiation and cools well, absorbing moisture from the body. As a result, the body spends less energy on thermoregulation.
Long-sleeve
It is often preferable to wear long-sleeved clothing during a hike to protect from yourself from sunlight, or the wind.
Sweater
In order not to catch a cold and not get sick, it is best to take a sweater or pullover made from light but warm materials. A woolen sweater is also suitable for such purposes. Keep in mind that it will weigh more than the long-sleeve so take it with you only if you know that it will be cold in the evening.
Windbreaker
Such a jacket protects you from wind and rain. There must be a hood in it so that the head also remains dry. No need to take heavy warm jackets! Do not forget about the headgear depending on the season.
5. Documents and Money
It is best to pack your passport and money in a separate bag to protect it from moisture and always keep it close to you.
6. Camping Tableware
A set of dishes is a very important part of camping. The dishes can be metal (and burn your hands) or plastic.
Keep in mind! If you are going to use plastic dishes, may sure to collect them after every meal and throw in a nearby town in a special bin designed only for plastic.
Do not take dishes that are heavy and may crash during transportation. As for mugs, they can be both ordinary and double-walled. And don’t forget a knife that should be always stored in a special protective case.
7. Toilet Paper
The optimal amount of such paper on a weekly trip is 1-2 rolls. Pack it in a waterproof bag and use it as intended.
Important! Never throw away used toilet paper in the woods. It is better to make a separate fire and burn it.
8. Toothbrush, Dentifrice, Soap, Towel, and Hairbrush
Take such an amount of toothpaste and soap that will be enough for you for 7 days or more, if you are going for a long hiking trip. You don’t need to carry a giant tube of pasta and a package of soap with you. You can take one tube of paste for all participants in the hiking trip. Decide it in advance.
9. Headlamp Flashlight
As practice shows, in a hike, it is very inconvenient to hold something with your hands. Therefore, this type is the most optimal option.
10. Several Lighters and Matches in Reserve
Be careful with lighters, and try not to lose them. As for matches, the main thing is to ensure that they remain dry. Take care of this in advance, even a drop of water can affect their performance.
11. Individual Medical Package
It can be adhesives, bandages, pain medication, medication for diarrhea and allergies. Bring insect and sun protection oil with you. Such things are better to take with you than not to take at all! This is the minimum set which will be sufficient during the trip.
It may seem to you that this list is not complete. But believe, there is no need to bring jeans, pillows, blankets or down jackets with you. The list of things with which you have read above is quite sufficient so as not to take too much with you but to take just what is needed!