Ten Essentials for Hiking & Camping
If you’re just getting started hiking or you have always been a fan of spending time outdoors, you know that there are many different things you need to stay safe and comfortable out on the trail. Our state is amazing for getting outdoors and exploring the wilderness, but you never want to do so, even on a short trip, without the ten essentials that can be lifesaving if you find yourself in trouble. The Bisbee Honda of Danville team has put together a guide to help you get out there this summer.
Food
If you’re only going to be out for a couple of hours, you’ll need considerably less food than if you are backpacking for the weekend. However, you don’t want to venture out, even on a short hike, with no food. Simple snack bars, fruit, or a sandwich would be ideal for day hikes. For longer treks, you’ll want to pack things like nuts, trail mix, rice, oatmeal, jerky, noodles, nut butter, or dehydrated meals. You’ll also need a way to prepare the food, usually in the form of a compact stove if you choose to take foods that need to be cooked. If you’re camping overnight, you’ll need a way to secure your food from the elements and fauna of the trail using dry bags or bear canisters, properly stored away from your camp.
Water
When you’re outside, especially in the summer, you’ll want to make sure you have plenty of water. If you don’t plan to carry all the water you’ll need for the hike (plus more for an emergency), then you’ll need to have a way to purify water from natural water sources. It’ll be important to have two ways to clean the water, in the event that one way fails. Plan your trip and water consumption accordingly so that you have enough water to reach your next water source without the threat of dehydration.
Shelter
Yes, even on a day hike. If you’re just venturing out for the day and find yourself lost or unable to leave the trail for some reason, you’ll need a way to protect yourself from the elements. This can be as simple as an emergency blanket and paracord for day hikes or an entire tent in your backpack for long overnight stays. Either option should insulate you from the ground, keep you dry, and provide some reprieve from the sun. A shelter is essential to outdoor survival and leaving it at home can be a massive mistake.
Fire
Whether you need to stay warm, cook food, or add an additional step of purification to your water, fire is an essential tool in the wilderness. Having the ability to easily start a fire is underrated. Items like fire starters, waterproof matches, and lighters can all make it easier to create a fire. Of course, you’ll still need a safe place to create the fire and tender to keep it burning. Make it easy for yourself and pack a simple way to start a fire as a backup plan, even if you want to practice more primitive methods.
Fix-It
Being able to repair a sleeping pad, tent, shoe, rain jacket, or other equipment on a multiday hike seems like something you might not need—until you do. It’s best to be prepared, especially when you’re in remote areas for equipment failures and other small issues that might arise. Items as simple as zip ties, paracord, duct tape, and string, can help you make it through a hike that you otherwise might not be able to finish. A knife or multitool also falls into this category, since you will probably need to cut things along the way. From food preparation to repairs, a pocketknife is invaluable on the trail.
First Aid
From blisters to scrapes to headaches, many small ailments can ruin a hiking trip. Make sure you pack alcohol prep pads, antibiotic ointment, bandages in a variety of sizes, and your preferred pain relief medication. This also includes packing bug spray, since bites from ticks and mosquitos can quickly change from mild annoyance to a medical issue.
Sun Protection
Another fun killer is sunburn. You don’t want to spend too much time outdoors in any season without some kind of sun protection. Sunscreen is wonderful but needs to be reapplied often. If you tend to forget or neglect sunscreen application, sun protection clothing may be a more suitable option for you. A hat and sunglasses will keep the sun off your face and out of your eyes, making your hike safer and more pleasurable.
Insulation
Weather conditions can change rapidly and even in the summer, many people find themselves vulnerable to hypothermia. Make sure you pack additional layers in case you get cold, as well as items that are waterproof. Once your clothing gets wet, it will be pretty ineffective in keeping you warm. Synthetic fabrics that dry quickly and resist water are the best options for hiking in any condition, but you’ll want a lightweight rain suit for when things get too rainy.
Illumination
If you get stuck in the wilderness after dark, you’re going to regret not having a light of some kind. While fire can work to fill this requirement in a pinch, it’s best to pack something like a head lamp to light your way while keeping your hands free for tasks or hiking in the dark. You may find that a small lantern in your tent also offers some comfort, especially if you’re not ready to go to sleep when the sun goes down.
Navigation
Many people simply rely on their phones for navigation. There are many apps you can use to download trail maps offline in case you don’t have service. It’s a good idea to bring along a way to charge your phone and also bring a map and compass in the event that your phone fails you. However, if you don’t know how to read a map, it won’t do you much good. Make sure you know how to use the compass and read the map in case you need it.
These are just the essentials. If you have other items that you must have, just remember to take those items with you when you leave and practice “Leave No Trace” principles to keep the outdoors clean and happy for everyone. If you are planning your next car camping trip and need the right vehicle to do it, contact the Bisbee Honda of Danville team online today or visit our showroom at 4050 Riverside Drive, Danville, VA 24541. We have the perfect adventure vehicle for your family.