Hiking, like many other things in life, can be anywhere from extreme to casual. Knowing what kind of hike you want to take on is how you can determine what you need to bring on your next stroll through the woods or climb on the edge of a mountain. I have gone on both of these kind of adventures and I enjoy both.
For the leisurely hike I would suggest bringing a backpack with water, a packed lunch, and maybe a flash light and a pocket knife. But in this situation the risk is low so really your pack can be light.
If you plan on extreme hiking here is a list of things the American Hiking Society suggests packing:
- pocket knife
- Appropriate footwear (boots)
- flash light
- extra food
- extra water
- whistle
- sunscreen
- lighter
- first aid kit
- map/compass
- Bear spray
Okay, the bear spray might be over doing it but hey you never know. Be sure to do research on the area that you are hiking in. Most sites will have news stories if they have had a bear attack in the last year or so, so be on the lookout. Until next time, get outside and explore.