What to Bring on Your First Hike
Let’s face it, 2020 was ROUGH. This year, we all deserve a fun and safe getaway.
Luckily, there’s a safe alternative to the traditional vacation, getting out and exploring the great outdoors!
There are lots of ways to experience nature. You can go on a day hike or sleep under the stars on a camping trip.
Day hiking trips are a low-commitment way of dipping your toe into exploring all that nature has to offer. Hikes are also a great way to get out and see parts of your local area that you might not have had time to enjoy in your pre-pandemic life.
Once you’ve selected the trail you’d like to start out on, it’s time to pack your bag to make sure you’re prepared for your adventure!
Here’s a list of essentials you’ll need to get the most out of your hike:
1) Backpack
First thing’s first, what will you put all of your gear in? This is the most important decision you will make when starting your journey as a new hiker. Second to picking a place to hike, of course.
Make sure to pick a backpack with lots of compartments for your different gear. Your chosen backpack should not add any unnecessary pounds to your back once all your gear is safely stowed inside. You can also look for other features like water-resistance, built-in chair, etc. The sky’s the limit!
Take your time and have fun backpack shopping!
2) Snacks
This is a pretty obvious one. Exploring nature’s wonderland is going to make you super hungry. So definitely bring some small snacks to fit in your backpack that won’t take up too much valuable space. I would recommend making your own trail mix with your favorite nuts and dried fruits.
Make sure your snacks are sealed tight in a reusable container. Not only will choosing a BPA-free reusable container reduce potential spills, but it’s also a great way to be better friends with Mother Nature.
3) Water
You can’t go wrong with good old H20. Yet, you could go wrong with how you store it. Metal water bottles can weigh your backpack down quite a bit. So definitely try a lightweight BPA-free plastic water bottle if you can.
Bonus points if you get a crossbody canteen! Canteens are great for extra outdoorsy flair, easy access to your water, and weight distribution. They’re a great way to bring out your inner explorer!
4) Bandana
This is the biggest takeaway I got from my 12 years as a Girl Scout. Never leave home without a bandana, especially when going on a hike! Bandanas fulfill a multitude of needs. In a pinch, bandanas turn into a tissue, tourniquet, bandage, clothing, sweat wiper, napkin, neck cooler, and a number of other uses you can MacGuyver up. Never underestimate the power of a good bandana.
5) Sunscreen
I cannot say this one enough: SUNSCREEN, SUNSCREEN, SUNSCREEN! Even if you apply it before you leave, it’s always best to have it with you in case your hike ends up taking longer than expected. You should always reapply sunscreen AT LEAST every 2 hours if not more. I would recommend a waterproof sunscreen, just in case your adventure leads you to unexpected water.
6) An Extra Change of Clothes
Speaking of unexpected water, you never know what may happen on even the mildest of adventures. So it’s best to play it safe. At the very least, pack an extra pair of socks to avoid those dreaded blisters.
7) Sunglasses
No matter where you hike, the sun will most likely be out in full force. In addition to sunscreen, it’s important to have a good pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun’s UV rays. However, make sure it’s a pair of sunglasses that you wouldn’t mind getting lost or damaged as accidents do happen.
8) Hat
Let’s not leave out the top of your head in protecting against sun damage. Similar to sunglasses, wear a hat that has a wide brim to protect you against the sun, but one that you also won’t mind getting lost or damaged. My favorite hat for adventures is the bucket hat. It has wide brim protection all around and has a fun outdoorsy style.
9) Mini First-Aid Kit
You can find these in the travel section of your local big-box retailer or you can make your own. Use an old Altoids container as your First-Aid Box and fill it with different sized band-aids and your favorite antibiotic ointment. You can also get a slightly bigger bag and store your first-aid items with your hand sanitizer and extra mask.
10) Personal Necessities
Other important items to pack in the First-Aid Kit section of your backpack are personal necessities. These are can’t-live-without items such as inhalers, medication, and period essentials. Avoiding emergencies at all costs by being prepared is the best way to get the most out of your adventure.
11) Pre-Charged Portable Phone Power Bank
While you’re on your adventure, phones can lose signal and drain battery pretty quickly. In case you find yourself in an emergency situation, make sure to bring a pre-charged portable power bank. So when you do finally get service, you’ll have enough juice to navigate home or call for help.
12) Compass
While we’re on the topic of navigating home, a compass might come in handy if you find yourself off the trail and want to get back on course. While this won’t be necessary for most beginner hiking trails, having a compass along might add to the rustic festivity and help you get into the hiking spirit. Hiking is also a good time to get more familiar with compass use in case you ever need the skill.
Well, there you have it. Your trail? Picked! Your bag? Packed! Now it’s time to go out and kick cabin fever to the curb as you explore the great outdoors. Have fun out there and stay safe!
