There is no better way to relax than by going hiking in nature. You get to breathe in the fresh air and forget about your worries. Together with your friends and family, you can spend some time together and make some memories.
However, there are some essentials you need to bring with you whenever you leave your house and go for a hike. You may never know what you need on your hiking adventures, but there are some crucial things, such as multi-tools, fire starters, and others, to have an easy and comfortable hiking experience. Without further ado, let’s look at some of them.
Save Space by Taking a Multitool
One of the main concerns when packing your backpack is the limited space. Although you might have a lot of things you need to take, depending on whether it’s a multi-day hike, you have to consider its weight too. Carrying a heavy backpack is the last thing you want to do. That is why having multi-tools can change your life for the better. These small pieces are essential for any hiker since they don’t require a lot of space. And apart from having a knife blade, which is crucial when you’re out there in the wilderness, you also have other component tools that might come in handy. You can buy multitools online with a 15-tool count or even 18. On that note, apart from the knife blade, you have scissors that fold, a can opener, bottle opener, flat screwdriver, needle-nose pliers, ruler, and others. Some even have nail files, awls, etc.
The great thing about having this powerful tool is that you can add it to your EDC packs and wear it in your pocket, on your belt, or strap it to the outside of your backpack. Anywhere you go, this multi-function tool is going to be with you. Whether you want to open canned food or you need it to cut something, it will always come in handy. You may also be able to find different uses for each tool in your multitool. Furthermore, carrying a multitool makes everything even more organized since you will only be carrying one hand tool with many functions rather than ten different ones in your backpack. However, before choosing the right one for your hiking adventures, make sure the multitool includes all the necessary tools such as hardwire cutters, pliers, etc. Also, opt for the more durable ones, such as multitools made of stainless steel.
Combine Your Survival Skills with a Fire Starter
Another essential that you need to put in your backpack is a firestarter. When you’re in the wilderness, you need to make a fire quickly to stay warm. Aside from keeping you warm, you will need a fire to cook delicious meals and enjoy them under a starry sky and the wild nature surrounding you. Also, it will help with your safety since the fire will keep most of the wild animals away. Of course, you can always rely on your survival skills and techniques for making a fire, such as a hand drill, bow drill, etc. However, having multiple options by carrying a lighter and matches is always better than carrying nothing.
However, make sure you get stormproof matches since regular ones will be useless after getting wet. Stormproof ones are better since they are waterproof as well. You can light them up in heavy rains, heavy winds and snow. They are truly lifesavers out in the wilderness. However, make sure you also take flint and steel so you can easily make a fire if nothing else works. Although it may appear to be a lot, you will need as many options as possible out in the wilderness. But before you leave, make sure you put out the fire to prevent any accidental wildfire.
Always be Prepared by Bringing Extra Clothing with You
How many times has the day begun with a bright, shining sun and quickly changed to a cloudy sky? The same can happen in nature, sudden temperature drops, and you might find yourself in a storm or heavy rain. Not having at least a lightweight jacket to warm you up is the worst situation you can be in, especially if you are deep into the wilderness. So, always follow the weather forecast and pack some essentials accordingly to the season, such as a rain jacket, rain pants, a long-sleeve shirt, a fleece jacket if it’s really cold, extra pair of base layers, underwear and socks, etc.
However, you don’t need to take everything and overpack; just a few essential hiking items and you will be fine. Natural fibres, such as merino wool, are unbeatable for multi-day hiking because they can absorb a lot of moisture while remaining dry and odour-free. However, synthetic materials are irreplaceable since they have great moisture-wicking properties, are more durable, and most importantly, dry fast. However, they tend to hold odours much more than their natural counterparts.
Illuminate the Trail with a Headlamp
Hiking is fun, even at night. Once the natural sunlight is gone for the day, you need to rely on other lighting tools, such as a pocket torch, tactical flashlight, and others. You may need to go a little further to get somewhere safe, and the best way to do so is with a headlamp. However, a flashlight is a better option if you want to hike for a few hours at night because the batteries can be replaced once the light begins to dim.
Don’t Forget to Take Some Food and Water
Last but not least, if someone from the group asks you, “What should you not forget on a hiking trip? ” without hesitation, that would be to bring extra food and water on your hiking adventures. You might need to stay longer than you intended due to bad weather, injury, getting lost, etc. So, packing a few snack bars is always a good option, especially for long hikes that can take away all of your energy and make you feel like you will faint and slow you down. Furthermore, you can pack some canned food, sandwiches, and other snacks.
Aside from satisfying your hunger, staying hydrated is critical in the wilderness, so taking 2 litres of water in reusable bottles is essential. However, when you need to stay longer than intended, it’s best to take some tablets to purify any lake or river water. This way, you will be drinking clean water without worrying about your health.
To sum up, hiking is so much fun and enjoyable, especially with your friends and family. However, taking the essentials can make all the experiences even better and safer.
