What’s in my Hiking Backpack? — Must-Have for Keeping Safe

Hiking excursions are perceived in two different ways. For some people only thinking about undertaking such a journey is extremely daunting, whereas for others, it’s the most exhilarating adventure, one is to embark upon. New roads, steep mountains (if snowy, then an added bonus), and testing your own limits are a few of the challenges that will come your way.

So, if adventure is your forte, hiking is definitely your “thing.” Other than the benefits of exploring new boundaries (literally and figuratively), hiking allows you to improve your lifestyle. Since liveliness replaces lavishness, plus what tops being able to walk the extra mile without panting every minute of the way?

Getting Ready for Your Hiking Adventure

First off, before even figuring out what to put in your hiking backpack, there are 3 paramount questions that you need to ask yourself before setting foot on the trails, and they are the following:

(1) What’s the Length of the Trip? 

As you plan for your hiking adventure, bear in mind that there are no criteria for how long it should be. Even if it is just a simple 15-minute walk around your local woods, I still consider that a hike. As long as you are outside in nature, that is the key.

If you want to gear up for a longer hiking adventure, start out small, so you can get used to it, and get used to the outdoor environment. This will gear up your body for a more extended adventure, and you can go prepared, and most of all, knowing you will be safe.

So, judge your walking skills accurately and time your journey accordingly.

(2) So, Are You with Someone…? Or Not!

Find a partner. Or don’t. Make up your mind; if you want to travel solo or in a group. At times, it’s risky for people to wonder about alone on a hiking trail, especially for a newbie.

So, it’s recommendable for beginners to travel in a group, but that may not be something you’re comfortable with.

(3) Where to Go?

Pick your hiking location wisely. If you’re out of shape and seeking a fitness routine while hiking, you can start small. Accordingly, choose the trail you’ll be willing to tread upon on sites like Trails.com, where you have to put your pin code in to find good spots for hiking.

So Now, What Do I Pack for my Hike?

The most common question I get asked the most is, “What should I put in my hiking backpack?” Now, packing is dependent on the nature of your hiking adventure.

If you’re going to travel light, then you need to find a secret garden in your area which you would like to explore. On the other hand, if you’re interested in exploring the hidden trails of the Alps, then you’d better be ready for some heavy packing!

However, before giving you my list, check out this video which provides you with all the essentials that you should pack for your outdoor adventures:

So, here is my list of essentials! If you follow my outline below, I assure you, that you will have everything you need to execute a fantastic hiking adventure.

1. Navigation – This translates into having a compass with a map. While climbing a mountain encompassed by a foreign land, a compass can prove to be a better guide than your GPS. You’re off the grid; since Google hasn’t come up with a way to personify its maps literally, you’ll have to go old school. It’s time you get acquainted with a magnetic compass to deflect yourself from unknown territories.

2. First Aid Kit – This is very important since injuries can occur in the wild at any point in time. Make sure it is light and has band-aids, ointments, aspirin, tweezers, and any medications you may need.

Also, it is imperative to have someone trained in first aid and to lay out a course of action for handling severe health conditions.”

Furthermore, remember that minor cuts can scale up to infection because of the open wound’s exposure to the rough weather and bacteria. So, you need to treat injuries as quickly as possible.”

3. Repair Kit and Tools – It is always handy to have a knife as it will be a big help with hiking gear repair, food preparation, and the first aid kit. Also, a gear repair kit should be included in your backpack in case of mishaps or gear malfunction. For instance, the repair kit could consist of but is not limited to duct tape, zip ties, and main parts for the water filter system, to only name a few.

4. Nutrition – Energy is essential when it comes to hiking. As useful as solar energy can be, we’re sure you aren’t made of aluminum to capture it! Hence, the only way for you to charge yourself is via healthy food.

You need to have food that can still be good if it endures adverse weather (such as getting soaking wet). To do this, you need sealable bags (Ziplocs are great) and have foods such as nuts, dried fruit, and hard vegetables.”

If you decide to bring meat, you need to always keep it cool with ice and have a cooler in your backpack.”

5. Hydration – You need a lot of fluids, especially water, on your trip, just in case of an emergency. Store it in the side pockets of your backpack so you can quickly get it. If you think you are going to be gone for a while, try to buy a portable water system that can filter rainwater; that way, you will never run out.

6. Fire – We’re not randomly naming the elements, don’t worry. You need to carry something which can generate heat energy without electricity. So, you should have a lighter, matches, or anything that can ignite a fire quickly.

Wood is present in abundance in the forest, but it may be a good idea to pack things like cotton balls dipped in petroleum jelly in a Ziploc bag or some firesticks, etc.”

7. Illumination – If you are planning to hike overnight, or even just at night, bring a flashlight or a headlamp; this will help you find your way in the night. Also, having your phone will allow you to use its flashlight.

8. Insulation – Weather forecasting is not an exact science! So, you should pack a raincoat along with extra clothing and dress up in layers to adjust to the various weather conditions.

9. Shelter – You need some form of shelter. When going hiking (depending on how long you are going to be gone), bring the gear that you would usually take for camping.

This includes all your basic necessities such as a tent, sleeping bag, a cooking pot that is lightweight, utensils, and, most importantly, bug repellent. There are bugs where you are going to be hiking, and it is so vital that you have a spray so you can be comfortable.”

10. Sun Protection – As much as bug repellent is vital, it is equally important to protect yourself from the harmful UV-Rays by bringing your sunglasses, sunscreen, and sun-protective clothing.

A 21^st Century Essential

I would add an eleventh essential item to the list above: a cell phone. It would be best if you took a cell phone hiking in case of emergencies. Keep it tucked away in your backpack, and don’t forget to bring a portable charging system to charge it while hiking.

Pack all of the above, and according to your needs, that’s it! You’re all set for the adventure. There are a few items that can vary depending on the terrain and the location of your hiking trip, but the above list should be included in every hiker’s backpack. Get set, hike, have fun, and remember, stay safe!