There’s a unique thrill about going on a hike, somewhere far from the comforts of civilized life. There’s always a certain level risk involved, of course, and that’s what makes the trip fun and worthwhile. However, there’s a thin line between fun and adventure, and injury or worse, death.
This is why it’s incredibly important to be prepared when you’re going on a hike or a trek, especially since these locations are often far from civilization and medical aid will not be as readily available as when you’re in the city.
So, whether you’re a trekking rookie who’s planning to try a beginner-friendly route like the Manaslu trek or you’re a veteran who’s survived many trails, this list is definitely going to help you learn new things and to help you remember some basics that you may have forgotten over the years.
So, what are the things you should always bring on a hiking trip?
First Aid Kit
Small first aid kits should always be in your pack. Minor injuries like cuts can quickly become a major problem if left unattended. You run the risk of getting an infection if they are left untreated and getting sick during a trek is devastating, not just for the person who gets sick, but for the group who has to watch over that person.
Knowing how to do First Aid can also spell whether or not a person survives an injury, especially if you’re hiking in a remote area, since you’re going to be a long way from any hospital. Help is going to be a long way away and that’s assuming you can even get a call for help out immediately.
Water Bottle
Water, and something to store it in, are two of the most important things you should bring with you. When you’re exerting any kind of physical activity, the body becomes dehydrated. This dehydration is further compounded by the effects of extreme temperature (either hot or cold). Water will keep you hydrated, and the bottle will allow you to refill at spots that have naturally-occurring potable water.
Quick Snacks
Nourishment is the key to being able to keep your body functional. Every movement you make expends energy, and the body sources that energy from the food that we take in. It’s important to have ready-to-eat, and easy-to-eat food on your trip. This ensures that your body has the necessary resources to finish the trek.
Multitool
More commonly known as a “swiss knife”, a multitool is going to come in handy for a wide variety of situations from cutting rope to opening cans. It’s something you’re always going to be happy to have around on a trek.
Trek Map
Nothing spells disaster more eloquently than going to an unexplored area without any plan or route to help you get through it. A lack of a trek map not only shows that you’re ill-prepared, but it also means that you could potentially be walking into dangerous places without knowing it. Always bring a trek map.
