Essential Hiking Gear

Hiking can be a wonderful experience for individuals or families. Like most other outdoor activities, though, there are some things you need to have with you in order to be prepared for an emergency. There are also things you’ll want to have with you to make the hiking trip more comfortable.

Here are a few of the key items you should bring on a hiking trip:

Your cell phone. While there’s no guarantee you’ll have coverage where you’re hiking, the GPS transmitter inside your phone may be able to help others locate you in an emergency.

Extra clothing. Bring a sweatshirt or something else to keep you warm. Extra socks don’t hurt, either. You can bring a rain poncho, as well, in case of inclement weather. A hat can help keep the sun off your head, too.

A first aid kit. Make sure it’s stocked each time you go hiking, and replenish any items you’ve used. At a minimum, you should have an ice pack, bandages, gauze pads, medical tape, and an antibiotic cream in the first aid kit.

A survival pack. This is a small container, preferably one that’s waterproof, that contains a pocket knife, whistle, space blanket, dry matches, a compass and water purification tablets. Each of these items will come in handy if you should get lost or if there is an emergency.

Insect repellant and sunscreen. These items keep your skin safe and free of bug bites. Make sure to reapply these items frequently, as they lose their effectiveness over time.

A map. A topographical map of your hiking area can be especially useful.

Medications. You should bring prescription medications, as well as medications for common ailments. A pain reliever, antihistamine, decongestant and anti-diarrheal medication can be especially useful while hiking. If you are allergic to bees, you should bring an Epi-pen in case of an emergency.

Food and water. Make sure to pack a little extra in case you wind up hiking longer than you originally intended.

All of these items should fit comfortably inside your backpack when hiking.