10 Items Every Hiker Should Carry
10 Items Every Hiker Should Carry
Nobody expects the worst to happen, but planning for it anyway could literally save your life. These are must have items every hiker should carry with them!
When it comes to hiking, you may be planning for a day hike or a quick hour hike while you’re camping, but what you carry in your pack could be part of the materials you’ll need to save your life if that hike turns south. That is why I put together this list of 10 items that every hiker should be carrying for those just in case situations.
Related: Best Hikes for Young Kids in National Parks
Items every hiker should carry to be safe on hikes!
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Good shoes
The last thing you want is a pair of shoes that will cause you blisters or don’t fit right when it comes to hiking. Make sure you have comfortable shoes that you can wear for long periods of time.
Sunscreen
Even if you’re hiking in the winter, the sun is still out, and even on a cloudy day, you can still get a sunburn. Make sure that you are reapplying your sunscreen often.
Navigation supplies
Whether you choose to bring a map, GPS, and compass with you is up to you, but you should have some type of navigation time with you that doesn’t require a cell phone connection. Having these can come in handy in case you end up going off the trail or need to get back after getting lost.
Calorie-dense food
You’ll need to refuel while you’re hiking, especially on a long hike. However, if you get stuck in the woods for a period of time, you’ll be glad to have something filling and full of calories in case you need it. You don’t need to pack for days’ worth, but having some extra food than you might need is a good idea when hiking.
Extra clothing
You never know when a sudden downpour or something else can suddenly ruin your clothes. Bring a backup pair of clothes just in case you need them. This can be something small you put at the bottom of your hiking bag to take up much space.
First-aid supplies
From ointment to bandages, make sure you have first aid supplies for a variety of possible situations.
Water and water purification supplies
Freshwater is a must when it comes to survival. While you can only carry so much water with you at one time, having water purification supplies can help you out if you ever need it in an emergency.
Firestarter
Again, you probably won’t need this one unless you get stuck in the woods, but being able to light a fire can be a necessary thing to do in a survival situation.
Flashlight
In case your hike goes later than you’re expecting, or you need to see in the dark, you’ll be glad to have some kind of light source with you.
Multitool or knife
Again, you probably won’t need this unless you need it for survival, but if there is an obstruction in your path, you might need a multitool to carve a way for you to get through.
Anything is possible on a hike, and sometimes mother nature can be pretty unpredictable. If you get stranded or fall and need first aid, you’ll be glad you have these supplies with you.
