More and more people are looking to escape the city and avoid spending their holidays and free time in conventional hotels and apartments. Instead, they would rather spend their free time being physically active while exploring new places. Such an activity that combines both is hiking. As a result of that, hiking gear has grown very much in popularity in recent years as more and more people are getting interested in this type of sport.
However, newbie hikers don’t really know what kind of equipment they need, what is essential and what isn’t. Getting all the hiking gear can be expensive if you don’t know where to look, and what to look for. I’m going to conduct a list of the hiking essentials for the sake of saving you some money, yet helping you to still be able to enjoy a full-out long-distance hike.
Backpacks
First and foremost, you’ll need a backpack. Hiking is pretty much impossible if you don’t own a backpack that can fit all of your necessities. A quality backpack will have an internal frame, which will provide flexibility and keep it close to your body, as well as waist and chest belts as a safety measure. Additional compartments for water bladders are always a good feature on any hiking backpack.
Sleeping Bag
Another absolute necessity. You have no control over the weather, and it can get pretty cold, especially at nights. You’ll possibly be miles away from any place that can offer accommodation and a cozy fire, and the sleeping bag can literally be a life saver. Invest in a bag that is rated for zero degrees, meaning that it will keep you warm even when the weather is freezing.
Tents and Tent Pads
Staying inside a tent will keep critters and insects away. Having protection nylon between you and critters as well as the weather elements is a necessity in my books. Consider investing in a tent made from lightweight materials that’s especially designed for hiking. Furthermore, a waterproof tent pad is ideal for keeping the moisture in the ground. Most tents come with a tent pad, but if the one you want to buy doesn’t, consider getting one.
Other Accessories
Additional accessories in the form of knives, boots, compass and a first aids kit will surely come in handy at one point or another. All you have to make sure of, is the size of the accessories you plan on bringing with you, because you are only wearing a single backpack which doesn’t have much space. So consider your options accordingly and pack in only the essentials. Band aids, antiseptics, pain killers, rubber bands, blister pads and snakebite kits are something that you should consider having at all times.