Nowadays, people tend to focus somewhat more on wellness, getting outside to be active and achieve fitness goals. Hiking is a favored way to work out.
The activity is not only ideal for health and well-being, but it puts you at one with nature and encourages socialization since you should hike in groups of no less than two people.
It’s among the easiest exercises, making it perfect for anyone to accomplish, but it can prove somewhat intimidating when attempting it for the first time. You could be concerned about safety, be unsure of the path you’re to take, and not be clear on what hiking gear would be adequate for the experience.
When filling a backpack for hiking, the idea is to ensure you prepare first for safety in case there are unforeseen situations and comfortability without putting too much weight in the pack with unnecessary items. When weighed down too much, it can hinder an otherwise enjoyable time.
The length of the journey will help determine what you take, as will the location. You could get away with a lighter load for a short hike ranging maybe two miles. The sort of things you’ll bring will differ in a wooded, rainy situation from a hot, sunny, exposed circumstance. Let’s look at a few must-haves in either scenario.
What Is The Must Have Hiking Gear For A First-Time Experience
Hiking is the ideal workout for a beginning wellness journey. It helps to reduce stress and encourages optimum general health and well-being, particularly cardiovascular health.
If this is your first foray onto the hiking trail, you may not be altogether prepared with a seasoned pro’s gear, but that’s okay. You can makeshift a backpack and assemble the essentials to assure safety and comfortability for a short first trip.
You can use any bag that you have on hand instead of buying an expensive backpack until you’re sure you’ll be pursuing hiking more regularly. It would be best if you waited until you progressed further along.
At that point, you’ll look to a store representative in the camping and hiking specialty to guide you toward the options with the most beneficial features, including a hip belt, padded straps, multiple pockets, organizers for water bottles and varied other gear, and on.
You’ll want one that can accommodate a hike overnight, something you’ll work your way up to. Until then, it’s okay to use any sort of bag you have on hand, whether a simple standard backpack or a computer bag.
You’ll also need to dress comfortably in clothing that will move while you walk with shoes that are durable, athletic, and meant for extensive walking. Learn what to wear for hiking with any season at https://www.purewow.com/fashion/what-to-wear-hiking/.
Check these essentials for packing for a beginner’s trip, roughly two miles. These mean to keep you safe if it comes to a matter of surviving if you were to find yourself lost
- Water
A “hydration bladder” or full water bottles is a priority in the bag to keep you hydrated and allow comfortable movement while walking the trail. The indication is to pack “one liter for each hour of hiking.”
A first-time hiker should account for roughly two miles in an hour, allowing one liter of water for the journey. More time should be considered for “steep areas.” If the location is arid or sweltering, it’s encouraged to bring plenty of water.
Remember, however, the bottles will weigh down the bag. A recommendation for more extensive hikes is to bring purification drops or opt for a water filter. You can also check the map before heading out to find resources like streams. The less weight you have to carry, the better.
- Navigating
Getting lost in nature happens quickly, particularly if unfamiliar with the area. Before heading out, it’s wise to study the route. For those with little to no experience, the first time out should be on a well-populated trail.
A recommendation is to download maps for the location beforehand in case cell service is lost while out. That will allow you to still view the area.
While you’ll want a full charge on your phone when leaving for a hike, bringing a compass and paper map is encouraged for extended or off-trail hiking. You need to be familiar with using these tools, however.
- Dress should be in layers
Cotton is a fabric that should be avoided when hiking since the material absorbs water and sweat, remaining wet throughout the trip. You want to steer clear of buying costly hiking fashions. The suggestion is to wear “moisture-wicking” material that moves while walking and is comfortable.
You should always have extra layers in your bag regardless if you believe they’re necessary. Something to provide warmth and rain gear. It’s also wise to consider the addition of gloves and a warm cap, especially for shady areas or days with cooler temps.
Final Thought
As a first-time hiker, sneakers are usually okay for many of the beginner trails, any durable athletic shoe (closed-toe). For those taking steep inclines, you might want more traction.
As you progress with hiking, a specialist in the sport can assist with selecting the ideal footwear. Go here for details on what you should not wear when hiking.
When you decide to add hiking to your wellness journey, the idea is to gradually work your way into the sport and progress slowly as you become more familiar with the area. It’s also recommended to travel in at least pairs for optimum safety.
