For those who love the outdoors, going hiking is a big event. Like most big events, there is a ton of preparation involved to make it worthwhile. This means finding the right gear, packing the best snacks, and mapping out your route perfectly. For all you hikers out there, here is a list of six hiking must-haves for your next adventure.
1. Sun Glare Protection
Avoiding the sunshine successfully is a demanding task when you’re up on a tall hill or rock formation. You’re much closer to the sun’s glare than you typically would be if you were walking down the street.
Although it may not be possible to avoid the glare altogether, you can take measures to reduce the sun’s intensity on your hike by bringing some essentials for your hiking trip. Look into sun hats for men, anti-glare sunglasses, and, of course, a strong SPF sunscreen.
2. Cooling Hiking Socks
Your feet will sweat like crazy if you wear the wrong kind of socks on your hike. It can feel natural to wear thick socks with hiking boots, especially if you’re concerned about poison ivy, snakes, and so on.
While you should wear socks that provide protection, you can still find socks with cooling fabrics, so you don’t sweat your toes off! Visit your local fitness shop to find sweat-friendly socks.
3. Navigation Tracking Tool
To get where you want to go and return safely, map out your intended hiking route using a navigation tracking tool you trust. You can find many apps for location tracking on your phone.
For a real treat, look into geocaching and hike for treasure. Geocaching apps will take you to the direct coordinates of your treasure site, so you always know which way to go.
Consider carrying a compass as well, or use a compass application on your phone, so you can find true north when needed!
4. Light Snack Packs
As you hike away calories, you might find yourself hungry for a snack. Fill up on easy-to-go snacks like homemade trail mix, ready-to-go meals, or a piece of fruit. Be sure to pack enough water with you as well.
Consider adding electrolyte balancers into your water before you go so you can replenish what you lose sweating. To balance out your carbs, take some protein with you, like beef jerky or cheese sticks, so you can keep your blood sugar balanced as you hike.
5. Water-Resistant Hiking Boots
The boots you wear while hiking will make a big difference in the experience you have. Waterproof or water-resistant boots with rubber soles are your best bet for rough terrain.
Look for flannel or fleece edging around the ankle so you don’t chafe while you’re walking for long periods. Spending extra on a pair of hiking boots that will last you for a while is worth the investment, especially if you’re really into hiking!
6. A Hiking Backpack
You’re going to need some place to store your snacks, water, sunglasses, and anything else you bring with you. Find a minimal hiking backpack so you don’t feel like you’re carrying a million pounds.
You should look for water-resistant options so that water does not seep into your bag and damage your belongings. A bag that has a side compartment for your water bottle or phone would be ideal so you can hike hands-free.
The Bottom Line
For the ultimate hiking experience, consider the must-haves in this article the next time you’re preparing for a hike. The experience you have outdoors is greatly influenced by the gear you choose to carry you through that journey. Happy hiking!
