Emergencies happen, and it’s important to be prepared for those “just in case” moments. What if the weather suddenly changes and you are unable to get back to the trailhead? What if you get hurt? Have an allergic reaction to a sting or bite? Are approached by an aggressive animal? Are overcome by the heat? Get lost? There are many things that could go wrong, and while you should never let your fear of those things keep you from the trail, you should always be prepared to manage an emergency should one occur.
There are so many tools out there to help make your excursion more comfortable, but not all of those items can come with you onto the trail. You will need to pick and choose which ones are valuable enough that you’re willing to carry them on your back in order to have them with you. You’ll want to contemplate pack space and item weight when making your decisions.
Day hiking means you must be self-sufficient when it comes to water and food. When you trek off into the backcountry for hours, or for the entire day, it’s important to fuel your body efficiently. Proper hydration and nourishment will give you the energy needed to truly enjoy your hike and to feel good afterwards.
Ah – the backpack. You would think it'd be easy to decide upon a simple bag to toss your stuff in so you can wander the world; however, with so many available choices, options, and features, it can be a little overwhelming trying to narrow down which pack is right for you. Let hiking mojo help!
When planning for what to wear, it’s important to consider the initial weather forecast, as well as the likelihood of the weather in your area changing during your hike. Be sure to dress for the weather now, the weather later, and for the “just in case” scenarios that could occur during your hike.
So, you’ve been enjoying some shorter hikes and feel ready to take on a few more miles; ready to venture a little farther away from home and the convenience of nearby facilities. Congratulations! It’s time to take that next wandering step and explore the world of day hiking!
If you are new to hiking, it’s certain you’ve wondered exactly what it is you need to take with you onto the trail. Once you begin searching the web for this information, you can quickly become overwhelmed with the thought of how many necessary items are recommended and how much those things are going to cost you. No worries; there are ways to ease yourself into the world of exploration and discovery without feeling stressed or breaking the bank.
