Packing your day pack for a hike along a well maintained and well used hiking trail differs from what you need for some back country hiking. You may or may not run into fellow hikers and the trail isn't always well marked.
Always pack these 10 essentials into your backpack and make sure you know how to use them.
1. First aid kit. Make sure you know how to treat minor injuries out in the wilderness. First aid kits for hikers can be purchased at most outdoor stores or build your own.
In addition to the basics like band aids, wrap, scissors and antibacterial spray, I highly recommend including duct tape. Not only can it be used for many first aid situations, duct tape has hundreds of other uses that come in very handy for hikers and backpackers.
2. Raingear. Despite a sunny weather report always bring along a rainproof and breathable outer layer shell. At a minimum pack along a garbage bag or better yet pack both. You never know when you'll be hit with wet weather and it's so important to stay dry.
3. Insulation. A puffy down jacket is a great essential to pack. Very lightweight, super compact and an excellent insulator if you need extra warmth for any reason.
4. Compass. If you aren't packing a GPS system, in the very least pack a map and compass with you and make sure you know how to use it. Practice at home first if you aren't sure. It won't be any good to you if you don't know how to use it but it can save your life if you do and you're lost.
5. Fire Starter. A lighter or waterproof matches plus fire starter stored in a waterproof container. We like to bring some lint from our clothes dryer which is an excellent fire starter.
6. Sunscreen. Too much sun causes sunstroke, sunburn and other unpleasant side effects. Protect your skin with a quality sunscreen or sunblock.
7. Hiking Snacks. You'll be burning through calories and you need to keep yourself fueled up with good carbs and electrolytes to avoid dehydration. Cliff bars and other energy bars are good bets as well as an assortment of nuts and dried fruit with some dark chocolate thrown in and Gatorade.
8. Water. You need to keep hydrated more when you're hiking and a good water bottle and water purifier or water purifier tablets for back up are essential. Fill up your bottles with your purifier filter whenever you have the opportunity. Depending on where you're hiking, the next water source might be a long way off.
9. Knife. A great multi use utility knife is really important to have with you. We usually keep ours in our first aid kit. Victorinox has been making these for decades and your favourite outdoor store will carry a good assortment to choose from.
10. Headlamp. A good LED headlamp is essential for your backpack. Even if you don't think you'll get caught in the dark it's so important to be prepared. Lightweight and compact, carrying a headlamp around can be used to see in the dark and used for others to help locate you in case you get lost.
Of course there are other things you'll be tossing in your backpack but if you make sure to include these 10 essentials you should stay safer and enjoy your hike even more.
Happy Hiking!
Leanne Arnott invites you to read more articles about taking your family camping or going on a family hiking trip at http://www.family-camping-and-hiking.com. You can add your submissions on many topics and subscribe to our monthly ezine.
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