Hiker equipment is not something you can possibly risk taking chances with. Trekking in those beautiful mountain trails needs proper gear to ensure you’re prepared for the uncertainties. Comfortable gear and steady equipment will make you more confident in your adventure so that you can make the most of it. There are many things hikers need to pre-plan before buying the equipment. Since the last months have held the majority of people captive in their own homes, the surge in outdoor activities was anticipated.
As a beginner going for a trek, you must select your trail and learn about the terrain in advance. Checking for forecasts, contact with the team you’re traveling with are all important pre-planning aspects. The gear for snowy trails is different from that for trails where the temperature doesn’t drop as low. Accordingly, you can check for the curated list of must-haves before the trip –
Trail footwear
Trekking is a task and you need to be well prepared for taking the long routes. The most important gear accessory is the trekking shoe. One must not compromise on the quality of footwear because walking on a trail is very different from walking on the road or a park. Normal sportswear shoes won’t work on that terrain.
Backpack
A backpack is essentially the prime equipment that will hold your other important equipment. Experts say that the backpack which fits perfectly on the body must be chosen. The adequate size is 10L-30L. The comfort of the back and wide shoulder straps are the keys to selecting the right bag.
First-aid safety kit
If you’re out on an adventure, there is bound to be more scrapping and chaffing than what you prepare for. The uneven terrain of the treks might cause injuries so it is important to have first-aid ready. The must-haves include sterilization wipes, bandages, and painkillers.
Hiking clothes
It’s an important factor that you prioritize style with comfort. Choosing light, breathable layers will help you stay warm and avoid excessive sweating at higher altitudes where the sun exposure is maximum. Hiking pants are the most popular legwear amongst hikers instead of cargoes or joggers as they are petite and provide great support.
Hydration bladder
As a beginner, it is important to know the amount of water you need to consume depending upon the trial. Water bottles create some hassle whereas hydration bladders up to 2-3 liters are comfortable to carry and easy to drink from. The average amount of water consumption is half a liter per hour.
Miscellaneous equipment
As someone who has been on treks will advise, carrying a good pair of sunglasses, applying sunscreen at regular intervals as well as keeping extra protein bars is the secret to a successful trekking experience. You must also carry high-energy nuts to snack on and eat fewer carbs. Carrying a headlight or torch is also important if you plan on trekking after dusk.
Camping equipment should be handled with care and arranged before the sun goes down so that you don’t spend the night looking for nails and screws.