In ever recreational activity, there’s always a rule. Take for example, hiking. Doing this can be very strenuous if you’re not really used to climbing mountains. Even harder, you have to remember one thing to be able to succeed. The rule here is simple, don’t forget to carry the ten essential things that you will need along the way. Forgetting to bring one of the most important things can be a matter of life and death so you better take note of these. Before your anticipation dies out, here are the ten essential things that a mountaineer SHOULD bring when hiking:
1.Water – This is the most important thing that you’re not suppose to forget. You should bring your water in durable bottles and tumblers with screw-on lids rather than those with pop-up tops. Don’t let your water container leak because every drop counts when you’re in a place where clean water is not always available! Should you ever run out of water, make sure that you have H2O treatments handy like iodine tablets and water purification filters. As the saying goes, a man can live without food, but not with water.
2.Map – To be honest, this can be useless to some hikers with guides along them. But to be sure, bring a map of the mountain you’re climbing. Just in case you get lost, there’s always something that you can rely on.
3.Compass – Don’t belittle the ability of this small device to get you back on track when you’re lost in the woods. As long as you have a handy compass with you plus your basic knowledge on how to use it, there’s a big chance that you won’t experience trailing problems.
4.First aid kit – It’s not that you’re anticipating something bad to happen along the way but bringing a first aid kit will give you more confidence when hiking. Whatever might happen, at least you have something to use.
5.Knife – This tool is one of the most functional tools that you can carry on your journey. A knife can be used when cooking, opening canned food, cutting plants and you can even use this to defend yourself if ever a wild animal attacks you.
6.Lighting tools – If you are going to spend a night in the woods, make sure that your flashlight, lamps or any lighting material has sufficient energy or fuel. You can also bring extra bulbs if you’re using rechargeable lights.
7.Tools that produce fire or heat – Always remember that the more the altitude gets higher, the more the temperature gets lower. You will need fire or heat-producing tools like wind-proof matches, lighter and fire-starter.
8.Extra food – It’s better to bring extra grub and carry a heavier bag than to bring few food and have a lighter bag. Always remember that getting hungry sometimes makes you eat more than the usual. In the end, you’ll be thanking yourself for bringing extra snacks with you.
9.Extra clothes – Even if you’re going to climb a mountain during summer, it’s still advisable to bring extra clothings that you will surely need if you will spend the night at the peak. A few layers will greatly help you in this activity.
10.Sun-protective materials – Sunglasses, caps, hats and other things that will protect you from the blinding rays and heat of the sun. you can also bring a small bottle of sunblock with you if you want.
Although these things are must-bring when hiking, you may also add other things that you think will be of great use. Once you’re made everything available and packed, then you’re good to go on your exciting mountain adventure.
