What’s in my hiking pack?

What’s in my pack…

What’s in my hiking pack? I get asked that question often. I have no intention of endorsing any brands in this blog, but I can tell you most everything can be found on Amazon. ;-)

            First, I have a pack with a water bladder. If you’re going further than two miles, you need one. Water is pretty much the most important thing you can pack, and you need to make sure you have plenty of it. Every climate, any Park – you need water.

            Okay, so maybe this isn’t in my pack, but it’s just as important. What is it? A good pair of hiking boots. I’m not one of those people who thinks you should only wear a high-top pair, but they should be waterproof, have traction and be comfortable. Take time to break them in before you hit the trail, too! You can thank me later.

            Snacks. You always want to have snacks, but you really need them, too. You may know exactly where you’re going (you should) and how far, but sometimes you may want to stay out longer, or it took a little longer to get there or back. Heck, you’ve just burned a score of calories and it’s time to refuel. Brings snacks. I would be remiss if I didn’t tell you to make sure you pack that trash out. Don’t drop it, bury it or whatever else you think is okay. Pack. It. Out. Dispose of it the proper place.

            Pack some extra all-weather gear. I keep my extra Crater Lake beanie, running gloves, and dry fit scarf. A scarf can be used in multiple ways. You should also be dressed in layers. Weather can change on a dime when you’re in a Park and you’ll never be sorry for that extra pound (if even) of gear. I also carry leg gaiters. They can come in handy in wet conditions like snow and water, or even to protect from hard flora or snakes and insects. They wrap around your lower leg and attach to your shoe. My family and I, hike all-season long, any condition. Because of that, we all carry a pair of crampons. I’ve used them on numerous occasions and when you do need them, you’ll not regret that extra two pounds, either. They are simple to slip on over your show and provide much needed traction on snow and ice.

            I also always hike with my iPhone and my iWatch. Yeah, you need the battery charged for them, but there are solar chargers, and most people aren’t going so far that the battery will lose the charge. Even without a strong signal, you can send an SOS now and GPS location.

            Below is a list of additional items I have in my pack and that don’t warrant a paragraph:

·      Emergency blanket

·      Water purifier, like iodine

·      Pocket knife/multi-tool

·      Compass

·      Whistle

·      Mini air horn

·      Pepper spray, or bear spray

·      Para-cord

·      Rechargeable Lighter/fire starter

·      Hand sanitizer

 Whatever you do, be prepared, know where you are going and don’t go alone. Happy hiking!