 Hiking Trip Essentials |
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| What are somethings that you absolutely need? | ||||||||||||||||||
 Kerfuffle Juggy Post Count: 47 Msg: #1 58 weeks ago, February 4th 2009 | I have never done it myself and was considering something along those lines some time during the summer break. | For the first one, I probably wont stray too far from home, maybe Northern Ontario, just to get my feet wet really. So please, what are some must haves during one of these kind of trips? Hoping to buy stuff slowly till then.  Stephanie and Andras Stephanie and Andras Post Count: 291 Msg: #2 58 weeks ago, February 4th 2009 | You could start with the, appropriately named "Ten Essentials" | - map - compass - water, or way to purify water - food (plus extra for emergencies) - rain gear/extra clothing - matches/fire starter - first aid kit - pocket knife - flashlight/headlamp - sunscreen/sunglasses If you don't believe you'll need all these things, just remember those famous last words "But I'm just going for a day trip!" It's good to get in the habit of being prepared for worst-case situations, especially since it sounds like you're just starting to experience the great and wonderful past-time that is hiking/backpacking/mountaineering/treking/etc. Start good habits early. All those essential items should fit easily into a well-fitting backpack. The size you want depends on the type of trip you plan to take - smaller for shorter trips, larger for over-nighters. Even for day-packs I prefer those with a waist-belt and good, study padding. If you're hiking in hot conditions or prolonged trips, some packs have built in water pouches -- these are great for really hot conditions, strenuous hikes or any time where you might need your hands free but not essential - more a matter of preference. I also like to take a bandana/neckerchief. Some people prefer a hat, but I find a bandana has dozens of different uses. And, obvious but not to be underestimated, a well-fitting pair of waterproof or water resistant hiking shoes and at least two pairs of socks, wool or wool-blends (because you just want to "get your feet wet" metaphorically, not literally). Worth the investment!  Mell Mell Post Count: 18119 Msg: #3 58 weeks ago, February 4th 2009 | Hello Juggy |  To add to the list in msg 2 Water proof container to put matches and extra clothes in. Bug repellant. Soap. If you are hiking alone, tell somebody at home where you are going and when to expect you back. Mel Number of Users: 3 | Number of Posts: 3 | |||||||||||
