The Essential Equipment You Need to Grab
Hiking is a fantastic natural activity. It’s a great way to get outside, get some fresh air and enjoy nature. But, before you head out on your first hike, you need to know what gear you need.
And, if you’re new to hiking, the list might seem a little overwhelming. Don’t stress! Once you get the basics down, you’ll be ready to hit the trails with confidence. Keep reading to learn what gear you need as a beginner, so you can get started right away.
What gear do I need as a beginner hiker?
When you’re just getting started, there are a few key pieces of equipment you’ll want to have in your backpack. These are great for easing your way into hiking, so you can focus on enjoying nature instead of fretting about the gear you don’t have yet.
First, you’ll want to make sure you have the right fit. A good fit is essential for comfortable hiking. When you first start, you’ll want to make sure your boots aren’t too tight and your backpack isn’t too big. The best way to get a good fit is to try things on. You can go into a store that sells outdoor gear, or you can use a site like Zappos.
Second, you’ll want a quality backpack. Cheap, flimsy backpacks will make your hike miserable, so make sure to splurge a little on your first pack. It should have a comfortable, adjustable suspension system that won’t leave you with back pain after a long day on the trail. It should be durable, waterproof, and easy to clean. You’ll also want to make sure it has plenty of storage space for all of the stuff you’ll want to bring on your hiking excursions.
Walk in the shoes of a beginner hiker
While it might seem like a no-brainer, many new hikers don’t break down their gear based on their experience. Instead, they buy whatever gear looks good to them on the spot, assuming it will work for them. This is a huge mistake! Before you head to the store, try on every piece of gear that you plan to bring on your hike. You’ll be amazed at how much better everything will feel if you just walk in the shoes of a beginner hiker!
Prepare for the weather before you leave
Going out into the wild without knowing what to expect can be a risky business. The weather can change in a matter of minutes, and you don’t want to be caught off guard. Weather is always an unknown, but you can’t plan for everything. The best you can do is be prepared for the worst. This means packing a rain jacket, a pair of sunglasses, a hiking stick, and a small tent for rainy days. You can’t control the weather, but you can be prepared for it.
Bring plenty of water and snacks
As a beginner hiker, you don’t want to bring the full-on hiking equipment. Instead, you’ll want to bring what’s called a “lightweight backpacking setup.” This means you’ll bring a lightweight backpack, a water bottle or two, some snacks, and whatever other gear you think you’ll need. This way, you can carry a little less weight and still have everything you need.
Pack an emergency kit
In the backcountry, you can’t always expect to get basic medical help if you need it. An emergency medical kit is a must-have, especially if you’re new to hiking.
When you’re just getting started, you won’t know what items are the most important. That’s why a good emergency kit is so helpful. Make sure to include things like bandages, antiseptics, safety pins, sunscreen, a USB charging cable for your phone, a first aid guide, an emergency blanket and a whistle.
Protect yourself from the sun
Hiking can be dangerous and can lead to overexposure to the sun. You can’t wear a lot of the protection you’d get in a gym, like a sunblock helmet or wrist guards. Even the most dedicated gym-goers don’t use these things on a regular basis, so it’s unlikely you’ll need them on a hike.
That being said, you can protect yourself from the sun’s rays with a few simple tricks.
- Wear lightweight clothing.
- Bring a hat and/or sunglasses.
- Wear sunscreen.
- Don’t forget to cover up when you aren’t outside.
- Don’t forget to eat a healthy, balanced diet.
Hiking tips for beginners
It can be difficult to know where to begin when you’re new to hiking. You might feel intimidated by the gear and the trails, or you might feel like you don’t have what it takes to get out there. The truth is that you can do it! The hardest part is getting out the door, so don’t let those fears hold you back.
The best way to get started is to sign up for a beginner hiking class. This will give you a chance to learn from experienced outdoor enthusiasts, as well as get you out in the woods with other beginners. If a class isn't your style, don't be afraid to teach yourself what you need to know to get out there and enjoy nature.
In addition to classes and workshops, you can also read books and do research online. The internet is filled with great information and helpful hiking tips that can help you make the most of your time in the outdoors.
Conclusion
Hiking is a great way to get outside, get some fresh air, and enjoy nature. But, before you head out on your first hike, you need to know what gear you need. These are great for easing your way into hiking, so you can focus on enjoying nature instead of fretting about the gear you don’t have yet.