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7 Essential Pieces of Equipment for Beginning Hikers

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Hiking is a thrilling pastime that helps people get in great shape while exploring the world. Everyone with a New Years resolution to be more active and healthy during the new year should consider taking up this activity. You’ll return home from a workout without even realizing how many calories you burned. 

If you want to take part in this exciting pastime, then there are a few pieces of equipment that you should acquire before you go. 

 

  • Boots

 

Boots are one of the most critical pieces of equipment you will need for your journey because your feet need to do a lot of work while you hike. You need to ensure that your feet are adequately protected so that you can make it through your journey. Your boots also need to have the right amount of support so that you won’t experience back pain or any other similar problems. 

Consider visiting a professional review site like Boot Bomb, to get all the necessary information to make an educated decision about the right kind of boots for you. 

 

  • Water Bottles

 

Hydration is crucial while hiking. It is extremely easy to get dehydrated while hiking if you do not properly prepare. Even if you are going on a hike that is as short as a couple of miles, you should bring water. You can either opt for traditional water bottles or a trusted brand like CamelBak. No matter what you end up choosing, make sure you bring more water than you think you will need. 

It would help if you also considered bringing a water filter that will allow you to drink from streams or rivers that you can encounter. This filter will help you to have access to clean water even if you run out of the supply you brought with you.

 

  • Food

 

It is always essential to bring some snacks while hiking so that you can be sure you will have the energy to complete the course. Consider bringing small items that are rich in protein. 

Granola bars and trail mix are great options because they do not take up too much room and are not particularly heavy. On the off chance you get lost or take longer than you expect to finish your journey, you will be happy that you brought a snack along with you. 

 

  • Sunscreen

 

Sunburn is one of the most common injuries that hikers sustain. Even if you are going out on a day that is overcast or you are hiking in a heavily wooded area, you can still be susceptible to sunburn. 

Always keep a small vial of sunscreen on you so that you can lather up and prevent yourself from experiencing UV radiation. Sunscreen prevents sunburn that can lead to much worse ailments, such as skin cancer.

 

  • Trekking Pole

 

Trekking poles are lightweight, thin poles that many hikers carry with them and place into the ground as they walk. Trekking poles are great for helping hikers maintain their balance. They will also help you to keep your energy during long and challenging hikes. These poles will also assist you with alleviating knee pain.  

 

  • First Aid Kit

 

When you are out in the middle of nowhere, anything can happen. It would be best if you were prepared to fend for yourself in the event of an accident. You don’t want to keep a bunch of heavy equipment on you, but you need to make sure that you can keep yourself safe. 

It would be best if you kept bandages, insect sting treatment, ibuprofen, tweezers, and antiseptic wipes. You need to keep enough supplies on you so that you can take care of yourself until you can get help.

 

  • Headlamp

 

Even if you plan to only hike during the daytime, bringing a headlamp is helpful in case your hike takes longer than you expect. You always need to be prepared to be out for a more extended period than you intend because you never know if you will get lost or experience any other kind of problem.

If you’re looking for a new active hobby in this new year, then look no further than hiking. Spending time outdoors is good for your body and mind. While there are a few pieces of gear you need to go hiking, it is not a particularly expensive activity to get involved in; you just need to stay safe. Check out your local State and National Parks to become more in tune with the world around you. 

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Sarah Williams is a self-development writer who is passionate about living a healthy lifestyle. She believes that true happiness comes from taking care of your body and having great relationships. You can connect with her at Wingman Magazine. Website: http://get-a-wingman.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/sarahatwingman

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