Must Have Items For Any Hiking Trip

What are the must have items for any hiking trip? This article looks at several items that will make your hiking trip more enjoyable and safe.

Preparing For Your Hiking Trip

There is just something about getting out into the outdoors and enjoying the beauty of nature. A Hiking trip is an amazing experience but it also brings with it certain dangers. Before each trip you should make a list of items to take with you for those energy situations that might arise. You don't need to take a ton of items with you but some small extras in your backpack can make the difference. Here's a list of some essentials that you can take:

Comfortable boots or shoes designed for hiking
Small backpack for gear
Walking stick (some people like these)
Map, compass, GPS device, cellphone
Small food items like trail mix or energy bars
Water (never go hiking without this!)
Fire starter
Small emergency kit
Cup
Emergency blanket
Insect repellent
Sunscreen
Hat

Make sure you have a general idea of the area you are going into. Know the rules and regulations and where you can't go. Animals can be a threat so be prepared with information on the activity of bears and other animals in the area. Start by going on designated hiking trails before you try anything in the back country. If you run out of water be sure to boil anything else you drink to kill pathogens.

Bear Spray

If the area you are hiking in is a known bear area consider taking bear spray with you. This is not pepper spray but a formula specifically designed for bears. Use this only if you need to, since most bears are more afraid of you and will run away. Remove the clip and spray in short bursts of 1 to 2 seconds. This will also work on other animals.

Inform your relatives or neighbors where you are going and when you expect to be back. Don't take risks when you out like exploring areas you know nothing about. Another tip is to take a general first aid course before you make hiking a part of your life.

Above all use your common sense. Enjoy yourself but take those extra steps to ensure your safety when out in the wilderness.

Emergency Fire Starter

This magnesium fire starter is ultra lightweight at only 0.6 ounces and it's 2 3/4" long. Perfect for starting those campfires when you need one and some heat. Should be a part of every backpack so you can be prepared.

Potable Aqua Water Treatment Tablets

These water purification tablets will help you get the water you need while on the trail. These tablets willmake contaminated water safe to drink. They are intended for emergency purposes only on a limited basis. Water will be ready after thirty minutes. Tablets are ideal for hikers who might need extra water during an emergency situation.

Emergency Mylar Thermal Blankets

These blankets are designed to keep you warm in emergency situations. Comes in a package of ten so you always have extras when you need them. This is an excellent item to have in the backpack for any situation that might arise on the trail.


Emergency Fire Starter Only $7.99 View on Amazon	Potable Aqua Water Treatment Tablets Only $7.99 View on Amazon	Emergency Mylar Thermal Blankets (Pac... Only $6.00 View on Amazon

Bear Grylls Survival Series Ultimate Kit

This small combact survival kit contains 15 tools. There's a multi-tool, survival blanket, fire starter, fishing, sewing kit, and other items. Included is a survival guide by Bear Grylls. Excellent small item for the backpack.

MSR Titan Cup

This cup weighs 1.8 ounces and is made out of titanium. Comes with folding wire handles and a lifetime warranty. An essential item for the backpack and those long trail hikes.

Nalgene "BPA Free" Tritan 32 Oz Oasis Canteen

This BPA free bottle is made in the USA and holds 32oz. The impact resistant material ensure you always have the warer you need. It's guaranteed leakproof and won't transfer tastes, odors, or stains after heavy use.


Gerber 31-000701 Bear Grylls Survival... Only $79.0 View on Amazon	MSR Titan Cup ~~$48.27~~ $39.99 View on Amazon	Nalgene 32oz Oasis Bpa Free Canteen B... ~~$12.99~~ $12.16 View on Amazon

Updated: 01/25/2012, brlamc

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whitemoss on 04/14/2012

Don't forget to take a torch (UK) /flashlight (US) !

Sam on 01/26/2012

I never go out of the house without it, repairs everything from shoes to backpack and I have even fixed a floppy battery compartment lid on a digital camera with it ;-)