DAY HIKING BACKPACK
It is important to have this essential for day hikes, and there is a wide selection of excellent small backpacks available. Take a look at the market to find the one that suits your needs the most.
When I go day hiking, I typically prefer a backpack with a capacity of approximately 20-30 liters, equipped with compartments for a Camelbak-style water reservoir, and featuring hip straps and chest straps.
HIKING MAP
I always make sure to have a map of some sort with me, whether I obtain one by printing it online or purchasing one that is suitable for my trail.
It is beneficial to have a point of reference while navigating through trails that often have diverging paths and splits in various directions.
During my hike up Mount Langley, a 14,000 foot peak in California, I found myself in a tricky situation where I had to rely on my map. By consulting my map, I was able to locate a trail that allowed me to save both time and distance, enabling me to reach a snow-free pass.
HIKING GPS DEVICE
I am passionate about data and believe you should be too! I understand that not everyone uses GPS while hiking, but I personally find it to be a crucial tool and there exist numerous excellent choices available.
The Garmin GPS 64st is my preferred GPS device due to its usefulness in guiding me when I am unsure of my location. It particularly proved valuable during my initial solo hike, aiding me in finding my way back to the main trail by navigating through a substantial talus field after I had veered off track.
I have gone to the extent of creating my own GPX file using Google Earth and transferring it to this GPS device in order to navigate the less frequented path known as Bastards Ridge along with my friend.
DON’T HAVE A GPS? YOU SHOULD.
It is my belief that all hikers and backpackers should possess the ability to navigate effectively in outdoor environments in order to be self-reliant. I make it a point to emphasize this in my backpacking program. Nonetheless, I would like to provide you with a few GPS options to initiate this process. Never put yourself at the risk of becoming lost, and do not depend on others for your safety. Empower yourself and take complete responsibility for your wellbeing, my friend.
ASIC HIKING NAVIGATION COMPASS
To be truthful, I hardly ever need to utilize my compass (typically, I use it for amusement), but I consistently carry one as a precautionary measure. I regard it as my tertiary safeguard in case I happen to become disoriented.
If you lack the knowledge of using a compass, it would be beneficial to undergo training in order to understand its usage in the wilderness. Merely carrying a compass won’t be of any assistance if you are unaware of how to utilize it.
SUNSCREEN
It’s a no-brainer to always wear and bring sunscreen for a hike. My personal preference is the Neutrogena brand, which also offers a zinc-based sunscreen for those seeking a more natural option.
LIP BALM (WITH SPF!)
When going on a hike, it is equally vital to carry lip balm containing sunscreen, just as you would with regular sunscreen. I personally prefer the Joshua Tree brand of lip balm.
BUG SPRAY OR WIPES
I usually don’t bring this unless I anticipate problems with bugs and mosquitos. Bug repellent wipes are essential during the summer months in the Sierra Nevada, as bugs can be a major problem.
When hiking in warmer weather, it is advisable to carry insect repellent for precautionary purposes. Personally, I find wipes to be the more suitable option for hiking and backpacking as they are lighter and more convenient to pack, without the concern of potential spills.
Plans With Family or Friends
- Update them with any changes to your plans
Be Realistic About Your Fitness and Skill Level
- Don’t overestimate your abilities
- Don’t underestimate mother nature
- Choose trails within your or your group’s ability
- In the winter, breaking through fresh snow can be more tiring than regular hiking.
Check the Weather Forecast and Current Conditions
- Day of your trip
- Night of your trip and the next day so you can be prepared for an unexpected night in the woods
- Know what time the sun sets and plan your hike to return before dark
Thunderstorms are a type of weather phenomenon that involves the formation of storms, typically with heavy rain, lightning, thunder, and strong winds.
- Thunderstorms can pop up even if they are not forecast
- Watch for darkening skies, increase winds, lightning flashes, and the rumble of thunder
- Avoid summits and other open areas during thunderstorms
- As soon as you are first aware of an approaching thunderstorm move to lower elevations and seek shelter
- If caught outside in a thunderstorm find a low spot away from tall trees, seek an area of shorter trees and crouch down away from tree trunks
- Make yourself as short as possible by;
- Sitting on your pack or sleeping pad with your knees flexed, and
- Hugging your knees to keep your feet together to minimize the ground effect of a near-by lightning strike
Weather Conditions Can Affect Your Health
Hypothermia is the result of heat being lost by the body at a faster rate than it can generate heat, which leads to a critically low body temperature.
- Stay warm and dry to prevent hypothermia
- Cool wet weather is as dangerous as extremely cold temperatures.
- During cool and rainy weather
- Wear waterproof jacket with hood or hat and waterproof pants
- Wear layers of non-cotton clothing that can wick moisture
- During nice weather
- Pack rain gear and extra clothing as weather can change quickly or you may have to spend the night in the woods
- During cold weather – dress properly
- Thermal undergarments that wick moisture
- Fleece or wool insulating layer
- Waterproof or water-resistant outer layers
- Thick socks, a winter hat, and gloves or mittens
- Waterproof, insulated boots
- Carry plenty of food and water – eat, drink, and rest often
- Being tired, hungry, or dehydrated makes you more susceptible to hypothermia
Prepare For Survival
- Know what to do in case of emergencies and be prepared for them to happen
Hike in a Group and Stay Together
- Pace your hike to the slowest person
- Stay in sight of the person behind you and the person in front of you
- Stay in hearing distance of everyone in your group
Monitor Conditions and Turn Back
- If the weather changes for the worse
- If exhaustion is setting in for any group members
- If darkness is approaching
- Don’t push your limits!
If you find yourself lost or injured, think step by step about what to do. Do not add or remove any information while rephrasing the text.
- Stop where you are. Keep calm and assess your situation
- Try to determine your location-look for recognizable landmarks and listen for vehicles on nearby roads
- If you are sure you can get yourself out of the woods using a map and compass, do so – otherwise stay put
- If you have cell service, call 911 or DEC Dispatch (see above). The dispatcher will ask questions to collect information needed to help searchers locate you quickly
- If you don’t have cell service, move to a location close by where you are visible to searchers on the ground or in the air. If you have something brightly colored, wear it or place it in a conspicuous location
- If someone is injured or stricken and there is no cell service:
- One person should remain with the injured person while the others note their location and leave to obtain assistance
- If there isn’t anyone to stay behind, make sure the injured person has shelter and supplies before leaving to seek help
