There is nothing worse than getting miles away from civilization and encountering an emergency you are not prepared for. Whether you0re lost with no food, caught in an unexpected rain, or in pain from poor footwear, hiking without the right equipment is never a fun experience.
Your gear will vary depending on what type of hiking adventure you are planning, but whether you0re backpacking the Appalachian Trail or planning a day hike with your family, there are some pieces of hiking gear you should never forget.
First, you need a rugged hiking backpack to comfortably hold the rest of your gear. A small day pack may be all you need if most of your hikes are short and you seldom plan to stay overnight. If you are planning longer hiking trips, look for a backpack that fits comfortably with plenty of compartments and enough room for all your food and equipment.
Proper footwear is another essential piece of hiking gear, regardless of where and how long you are hiking. Select hiking boots or shoes that are designed for the type of terrain you will most often be hiking and make sure they are a comfortable fit. Wear high […]
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There are millions of people everywhere who enjoy the relaxation of camping. Whether you0re spending the weekend camping with your family at the local state park or backpacking through the backcountry, there are some general rules of camping safety that you should always follow. Many of these camping safety tips are simply common sense, but it is still a good idea to review these guidelines before setting out for any type of outdoor adventure.
General Camping Safety
Camping safety begins before you ever set out on your vacation. Check the weather forecast ahead of time and be prepared for rain or storms. Pack emergency rain gear, as well as a well-stocked first aid kit, and plan to arrive at your campsite as early as possible. You want plenty of time to set up camp before the sun sets.
Upon arrival, inspect your campsite closely for glass and harmful debris, poisonous plants and animals, and areas that may be prone to flooding in the case of a heavy downpour. Set up your tent on flat ground and remove any rocks, branches, or other objects that could damage your tent or be uncomfortable to sleep on.
If you […]
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Having a back pack fit correctly is one of the most important facets of the backpacking experience. You can ruin a good trip in a hurry by not having equipment that fits properly.
First of all decide on the quantity and type of equipment you will need to bring. This will assist you in deciding which backpack you need. Deciding on the amount of space needed is also critical, so pretend you are taking a long trip and prepare for space that is conducive to that. Comfort is the most important thing to consider when choosing a backpack. You need to be able to carry the most weight with the least amount of effort.
The backpack that you purchase should be able to distribute the weight efficiently which will allow you to carry the backpack with maximum comfort. Always test the backpack before embarking on a trip to see how well it handles the intended weight. Keep adding weight a little at a time. You are the only one who will know how much weight is comfortable for you.
The straps are another important item. The shoulder straps should carry about 30% of the weight and the hip straps 70%. Make sure the […]
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