Protect yourself from the sun. When backpacking or hiking the sun is your deadliest force. From the skin to the eyes, the sun can wreak havoc on the body from every angle. Sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 should be used by every person in the backpacking or hiking team. The sunscreen should also be waterproof to fight off that sweat from the sun. The eyes too need to be protected and a pair or two of sunglasses is the perfect way to add that extra bit of protection.

Be safe. Safety is another huge concern when backpacking or hiking. Letting others in your group know where you are in case of an accidental separation is easy with a whistle. The time of the year when the backpacking or hiking trip is taking place will determine which type of whistle is needed. For winter months a plastic whistle with no ?pea? is just right to prevent the ?pea? from freezing or the whistle from freezing to your lips.

Bring lots of water. Water is one of the heaviest things you will pack into your bundle when backpacking or hiking, yet it is essential to life. When backpacking or hiking, it is always better to have more than you need and a filtration device is the best way to ensure a constant supply of water. In case of emergency, a filtration device designed for the outdoors can filter any water supply making it drinkable.

Fire Starter. A fire is the center of warmth and food when backpacking or hiking. Bringing along a firestarter or some waterproof matches can mean a world of difference when stuck out overnight at a camp. Backpacking and hiking is supposed to be fun, but without fire the night can be long and cold.

First aid first. A first aid kit should be prepared for every backpack used during the backpacking and hiking trip. If only one packer has access to a first aid kit, the other hikers will be unable to provide first aid in the case that the group loses touch with each other. A first aid kit should include a pocket knife and a set of pocket tools for everyone.

Finding your way. When in an environment that is not native, there needs to be a way to stay on track with the trail. This is especially important just in case a member or two gets lost from the rest of the backpacking and hiking team. A compass and a map needs to be included in every pack. Today, there are even GPS locators that can be used when traveling through nature on foot.

Hiking and backpacking are great ways to get a little physical activity and become better acquainted with nature and life outside. Together as a team, the backpacking and hiking group needs to make sure that every pack includes these essentials as a base and build the pack from there.

Original Post: Adventure Travel

The Essentials Needed for Backpacking and Hiking