Hiking in the wilderness is an up-close way to experience nature. If this is something you are planning to do for the first time, here are some tips to help you prepare.
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Protect Yourself
The wilderness is filled with beauty, but it’s also a place of hidden dangers. With a little preparation, you can protect yourself from a variety of hazards. The basics like sunscreen and bug spray are important, but you need to plan for other dangers such as carrying a snake bite kit, a tourniquet and even bear spray. If you are going to an area with large animals such as mountain lions and bears, carrying a gun secured in a concealed shoulder holster or a large hunting knife is also a great idea.
Buy the Right Gear
If you are planning on hiking at least a few miles, make sure you have the right shoes. Hiking boots help support your ankles on rocky terrain, and some are constructed to be waterproof. It’s also a good idea to wear a hat that protects your face and neck from the heat of midday sun and carry a lightweight jacket for brisk evenings. Even if you aren’t planning on staying out overnight, carry a pack with emergency supplies such as matches or fire-starting materials, a compass and ideally, emergency communication equipment.
Pack Water and Food
Fitting everything you need into a small pack that’s light enough to carry is essential for a good trip. Lugging 20 water bottles and boxes of food, any significant distance just isn’t possible. Outdoor supply stores carry various freeze-dried food, high protein meal replacement bars and powdered electrolyte drinks. With access to a running stream, you have an endless supply of water. To ensure your drinking water is safe, purchase a refillable filtration water bottle that is designed to take harmful organisms out of the water and make it safe to drink.
