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Essentials
for a Successful Day Hike
What to bring along
©
Outdoor Adventure Canada
 Sitting
here thinking about what to write for this installment of the
day hiking feature transported me back to some of my first long
day trips. One of these trips was a 5.6 km hike that took us up
a very steep trail to a wonderful lookout. The day was one of
the hottest of the summer and I noticed that there were people
on the trail who were ill prepared, one couple did not even have
water. This made me think that I should cover the topic of what
one needs to take for a day hike.
Water is the
number one essential! You want to avoid becoming dehydrated which
can happen easily, especially in hot weather. I recommend ½
litre for every hour. Of course, this will vary depending on your
personal needs, the temperature and the difficulty of the trail.
Be sure to take two sturdy water bottles. A water filter or purification
drops are a good idea if you are going on a long hike.
I recommend
layering clothing for hiking in the spring and fall. A waterproof
breathable outer shell is great for wind and rain. Polar fleece
makes a nice layer over your inner layer of regular clothing.
Wear a long sleeved shirt under the fleece in cooler weather and
in warmer conditions a t-shirt. In the summer, pack the outer
shell or a poncho in case of rain, even if the forecast is good.
You will also
need good footwear. For most hikes a high quality, sturdy walking
or running shoe will suffice, however in rugged or rocky areas
you may want to consider a hiking boot or shoe or even a light
backpacking boot. You should also consider hiking socks. These
help prevent blisters and tend to keep your feet more comfortable
than an everyday sport sock. There are many types of hiking socks
that will aid in wicking moisture away from your skin. Bring an
extra pair of socks and laces.
Other essentials
include a map, compass, and first aid kit. Mine has bandages,
moleskin, Compeed™ (for blisters), electrolyte replacement
crystals and ASA. A flashlight or headlamp, bandana and a pocketknife
are useful as well. Sunscreen is a necessity and you will want
bug repellant or netted bug clothing in late spring when the mosquitoes
and black flies are biting. If you own a cellular phone, take
it with you in case of an emergency.
Your body
needs fuel so food is an important content in your pack. If hiking
in cold weather you may want to bring a backpacking stove for
a hot drink or hot lunch. Your only limit is your imagination
when it comes to lunch, not matter what the season. If the weather
is hot and perishables are on the menu just use a cooler bag and
ice packs. I like those ones that you can refreeze. You may need
eating utensils such as a mug, plate and spoon depending on what
you decide to eat. Bring snacks to keep your energy levels up
during the day. Things such as GORP (good old raisins and peanuts),
fresh or dried fruit, veggie sticks, jerky, energy bars or granola
bars are all good choices.
Put all of
this in a good quality daypack. Something with a hip belt and
is more comfortable and I like having an outer pocket or two.
I keep my full water bottles and outer shell at the top of the
pack where I can access them easily.
As they say,
"Take only photographs and leave only footprints", so
remember your camera. It is a good idea to place it in a dry bag
or waterproof camera bag when you aren't taking a photo. Take
extra film and if you happen to be bringing a cooler bag that
would be a good place to keep the spare film.
It isn't often
that I use all the items in my pack but for the one or two times
when I do, I am thankful for the little extras I pack. There is
a certain peace of mind in being prepared for the unexpected.
Packing properly for a day hike you will make your excursion more
enjoyable.
For more articles
please view the archives.
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