Finally decided to give hiking a try? Good for you! Hiking is one of those activities that will change your life forever–in a good way, of course!

It’s an excellent activity to pick up. It will introduce you to nature, show you amazing places and make you physically and mentally healthier.

Here’s a backpack checklist for first-time hikers:

Navigation Equipment

We’ve become overly reliant on our phones when it comes to navigation; while that’s all well and good when you have access to electrical outlets, it’s not a great solution for the outdoors.

When you’re going hiking you need to use tools and gadgets that don’t run on power. Learn to follow the directions using a basic map and compass. Depending on where you’re hiking, you may even want to learn triangulation so you can pinpoint your location in case you’re lost.

Food, Insect Repellent, and Sunscreen

Even experienced hikers need insect repellent, sunscreen, and food. Hiking is a physically strenuous activity on its own, you don’t want to have to slow down due to bad sunburn or an insect bite. To keep yourself comfortable on the trail, pack a good sunscreen and insect repellent.

Carry lots of healthy snacks with you on the trail. If you’re going on a long hike then get yourselves lots of protein bars to keep your energy levels up. Avoid unhealthy snacks that will cause downward slumps.

Water Supply

First-timers will very quickly realize the need for water when they go hiking. Over-exhaustion and dehydration during hiking is very common. You must have water at hand when you feel like your body is heating up.

For short day hikes, take a few water bottles with you. Those going on longer hikes should consider getting hydration bags and water filtration systems. It also helps to keep a bag of water treatment tablets to purify water from natural sources in case you run out of water. They don’t take up much space and you can fill up your bottles on-the-go.

First Aid Kits

Carry a first-aid kit with you whenever you’re in the outdoors. Personal first aid kits can easily fit into the small compartments of day packs. You’ll find yourself using it for blisters, scrapes and minor injuries that are very common whenever you hike.

Backpack

Your backpack is the most important item you take with you on a hiking trip because it carries all your essential. The better your backpack is, the more stuff you’ll be able to carry with you and the more comfortable you’ll be on your trip.

Newbies tend to underestimate the power of a good hiking backpack and make the mistake of taking any old bag they have laying around the house; hiking needs proper backpacking gear.

To have a great hiking trip, invest in a specialized backpack that offers the comfort you need as you take on tougher terrains.

Light Hiking Gear is a specialist at designing lightweight backpacks for all kinds of hikers. Our collection of affordable daypacks, StrongLites, and UltraLites was made to support hikers on all kinds of terrain. Check out our selection of award-winning backpacks online and place your order today.