What are the must haves when going on a long hike? For many people, they think that there are just two things that they need to take with them on a hike: food and hydration. But, other than that, there are a few other must have items for hiking that will not break the bank when you are doing your long distance trip. If you’re like most people who enjoy hiking, you probably do not need a tent, sleeping bag, hammock or any of the other gear that is considered to be “must haves.” But, these items can still make a big difference in your enjoyment of your day on the trail. So, here are some of the must haves for hiking that I would recommend.
There is nothing more comfortable than taking a hot shower after a long distance hiking trip. The water that runs out of our taps is refreshing and nice, but the cold feeling that it gives you is nice as well. If you have the option, I would take both a camping shower head and a freestanding one to enjoy these benefits. Just make sure you have one large enough to accommodate your needs! Camping showers are available in a variety of sizes and shapes at most sporting goods stores or home improvement stores.
While we are on the subject of showers, another must haves for long distance hiking include a portable soap dish and a hand held portable soap dish. These products make taking a shower a lot easier and more pleasant for you and the environment. If you are not planning on taking showers, you can also purchase bar soap that is designed for hiking purposes and which can help to cut down on the amount of laundry that you need to do on your next camping or long distance hiking trip.
As far as clothing goes, another set of must haves for long distance hikers are things such as a pair of breathable, waterproof, socks, and a pair of shoes with high heels. Some hikers also wear a jacket, although I tend to avoid this type of clothing unless it is extremely cold or windy outside. Otherwise, I prefer to use shorts or jeans instead of wearing a jacket, because it is generally warm enough even in windy weather conditions. Some hikers also wear a balaclava, although I prefer to keep it covered as it tends to get really hot in the summertime.
Another thing that some people forget to bring along when they are hiking long distances is a camera. Some people also take along sunglasses, but if you plan to use your camera frequently while hiking, I definitely suggest you invest in a nice digital camera that has a good zoom lens. Having both a digital camera and a lens will give you plenty of options for shots. I have a couple of cameras that I like to take pictures with that take excellent pictures, although they are relatively expensive. If you are not planning to use your camera much while hiking, then I would recommend just purchasing a digital camera that can be easily taken with you.
Another thing that some people forget to bring along when they are hiking long distances is a first aid kit. I always forget to bring one along when I am hiking, but it’s important that I do so if there is ever the unfortunate situation where I become injured. I definitely recommend that you invest in some form of first aid kit, whether it’s just some bandages pain relievers, or an antibiotic ointment. It may cost a little bit of money, but it will save you a lot of grief if you end up getting hurt while hiking long distance hiking.
Something else that you should consider taking along when you are going on a long distance hiking trip is a sleeping bag. You can never have enough sleeping bags, so make sure that you pack a few extra for when you get caught in a storm or when the ground gets too cold. Again, this may cost you a little bit more money, but I guarantee that you’ll sleep better at night with all of the extra money that you spent on it. Some other items that you should take along our hiking poles, which will allow you to hike in places that you may have never gone before without having to spend time learning how to use them. In addition, it would be wise to take a day hiking vest along as well. This will be useful in case you end up getting separated from your companionship and need to stay safe for several days.
These are some of the most important things that you should have when you are going on a long distance hiking trip. I am sure that they will make your experience much more enjoyable one, and I’m sure that you will come back to these tips each time you head out on your next hike. In addition, these tips are great for people who aren’t experienced in long distance hiking, so they will be able to enjoy hiking even if it is the first time that you have ever done it. It may also be a good idea to bring along a friend with you on your next adventure, just so that you know that you can rely on their expertise in these areas.