Hiking, a widely practiced and recommended sporting activity, has also been considered a recreational activity. Hikers may enjoy bird-watching and sightseeing while promoting physical fitness. That’s why this adventurous activity has attracted beginners to go ahead and start a 7 to 12-mile walk on high altitudes!
However, this economical and convenient natural exercise that requires people to walk considerable distances may be a nightmare if you have no idea what to expect during the hike. Hiking requires no special equipment. But since you are going to face the wilderness, there are few essential items that you should bring on the trail like extra clothes, food and water, and your hiking backpack! However, aside from those, there are 4 other things you should not forget to include in your hiking checklist—things that probably, you have no idea about!
Wear A Timepiece!
If you are a beginner hiker, you might forget to wear your timepiece on your first hike, especially under the feeling of extreme excitement or nervousness. An Oris watch is a brilliant choice since they have been known for producing watches for sports and any weather—sure they also have something to offer for your hiking needs! Not wearing a timepiece is a mistake every professional hiker will not commit. Aside from a time-tracker that they use to calculate the time of the hike, they also use their watch for various purposes:
- To measure elevation from the ground
- To track weather changes
- To know the right direction (handy compass)
These 3 features are not present on ordinary watches, so professional hikers wear ABC watches on their daily hikes. ABC watches stands for Altimeter, Barometer, and Compass. For the advance once, they have maps on their watches to see on-road and off-road navigation and InReach satellite messenger to connect and send messages in case of emergency.
Since you are a beginner, you probably do not have ABC watches as of this moment. Do not worry because, in the meantime, you can still use your ordinary timepiece. Just make sure that it has the following attributes:
- Strong battery life
- Comfortable and durable wristband
- Water-resistant
- Can handle extreme altitudes
These qualities of a timepiece are a must. You do not want to wear a timepiece on a hike only to find out that it does not have a strong battery life—that would be useless! Also, hiking is an extreme activity so you do not want to be distracted with uncomfortable or very heavy wristbands. A water-resistant watch that can handle extreme altitudes is durable enough to serve its purpose.
If you’re searching for reputable watch stores that offer durable watches with those attributes, try to visit TheWatchCompany.com. They offer the most durable watches that are scratch-resistant and water-resistant that are perfect for your hike!
Do Not Forget to Wear a Comfortable Yet Sturdy Footwear!
Choosing hiking footwear should be the first one you should reflect upon before going to the walk! Some professional hikers prefer to wear over-the-ankle boots—a supportive and durable one. While some enjoy using trail-running shoes—these are lightweight and comfortable. Keep in mind that you should pick footwear based on your terrain! Some destinations are rough while some are stiff. These factors most affect your decision in choosing a suitable shoe. But whatever shoe you will prefer to use, always wear wool or synthetic sock as it is faster to get dry—same with your clothes! As a beginner, your daily running shoe will do—just make sure that it’s still in a good condition able to endure the long trek.
Always Bring a First Aid Kit!
Remember, you are going to face an adventure and you don’t have an idea what exactly to expect. Minor accidents are somehow common to hikers, so it is a must that you are well prepared for these scenarios. There are no hospitals or medical professionals up there. You are lucky if you are accompanied by a medical pro or knowledgeable enough with first aiding. If not, then you might want to research first on how to use and conduct basic first aid. It is better to be wise and prepared, rather than be sorry! These are some first-aid kit essentials you should include:
- Bandaids
- Gauze
- Pain Medications
- Eye Drops
- Antiseptic Cream
- Sterile Wipes
- Scissors
- Super Glue
- Tweezers
- Inhalers
- Emergency Blanket
- Bandage
- Cotton Balls
- Medical Tape
- Thermometer
- Alcohol
Carry Some Toilet Paper and Zip-Top Plastic Bag!
Hiking is a human-nature experience to treasure for the rest of your life! So make sure that you leave no traces of dirt on it. Some hiking areas are strict in implementing cleanliness rules and regulations. You can’t just throw away your garbage everywhere. So make sure you have a plastic bag to put it on in the meantime and dump it whenever you’re home.
In some instances, when you pee or poop, you’ll be needing toilet paper and a Zip-Top plastic to contain your garbage. Some professional hikers just use leaves to dry out and wipe themselves—you can just air dry but that would give you a lot of inconveniences. Moreover, some leaves in the forest might be poisonous or itchy. Since it is your first time, do not risk your hiking experience. Never forget to bring this—it will save your life!
Conclusion
Aside from the hiking essentials like a hiking backpack—containing your food, extra clothes, and water, there are other ‘must bring and wear’ items you should not forget. These are wearing a timepiece, wearing suitable footwear with wool or synthetic socks, a first-aid kit, toilet paper, and a zip-top plastic bag. If you’ll go on a longer trek, there are more things you should carry! If ever, ask your hiking buddies what more to include on longer hikes. With these 4 items to include on your hiking checklist, we assure you it will be an overall spectacular experience. Yet, just have an adventurous vibe and enjoy hiking! We hope this article helps you out in your next hiking adventure. Good luck!
