Solo Hiking Essentials List for Beginners

We all have been at least once at that point in our lives where we thought of solo hiking! When you hike with a group, you are automatically accountable to each other’s wants and needs. You also tend to rely upon each other. On the contrary, when you hike alone, you will experience ultimate freedom. A person can hike at his own pace with no pressure to slow down or speed up during hiking.

Hiking remains one of the most wonderful ways to immerse yourself in the outdoors. You can discover the breathtaking beauty of nature at whatever pace you are comfortable with it.

However, it is important to pack some hiking essentials, especially if you are a beginner or a novice! There is a collection of clothing and gear that all hikers should carry whenever they step onto the trail.

Following are some solo hiking essentials that every beginner should carry along with them

Compass

One should simply rely on their cell phone and Google Maps while hiking. Online maps are not the only means of navigation while on a hike! If you are a beginner, it is advisable to pack a compass and develop a habit of taking notes of landmarks and which direction you are walking. It would be best to keep a topographical map of the area.

A compass helps one orient a map and locate your exact position. The best thing about a compass is that it is lighter and, unlike electronic devices, not dependent on batteries.

First aid

When you are entirely on your own, and you get hurt while hiking suddenly, a first aid kit takes on even more importance. You will likely find yourself in an isolated area far away from town in the quest to complete your hike. There are many uneven paths, and slipping or falling during the hike is very easy.

Many novice travelers often downplay the risks of hiking, which can be problematic for them later on! Thus, it is very important to be prepared with a first aid kid no matter what happens! It should have materials such as cotton wool, scissors, plasters, bandages, adhesive tapes, antiseptic cream, disinfectant, etc.

Food that has a long shelf life

There are many options for backpacking food, from protein-based snacks to different types of flavorful spreads. If you are a meat-lover, you can take preserved meats such as salami and pepperoni, which must not be refrigerated!

If you want something nutrient-rich, you can opt for pumpkin seeds, almonds, cashews, and sunflower seeds. If you want a quick bite, you can eat protein bars or granola bars, which also tend to have a longer shelf life.

Water

Water should be given the most importance out of everything on the list. A novice hiker should carry more water than required while hiking, as not bringing enough water can lead to discomfort. The water needs of every person beg to differ.

However, ideally, drinking around 1-3.2 ounces of water is advised every two hours. Staying hydrated can also keep your digestive system healthy and improve brain function.

A butane lighter

A novice hiker often tends to overlook some things. However, regardless of the season, it is important to bring a butane lighter with you to start a fire. Some spots could have the weather conditions with most variations.

For example, the location which has an excruciating sun during day time are the same ones which can cold winds during the night time. You need to stay warm during your journey. Moreover, a butane lighter is also required to heat the food you bring along with you.

Tent

If you need to spend a night outdoors while on a hike, it is important that you have a tent. The nighttime temperature might drop dramatically, especially in mountain terrain. Most people only take a sleeping bag along with them.

However, a sleeping bag alone is not enough to protect them from the winds! The tent you bring along with you should be compact and easy to carry!

Clothing

One must take an extra set of clothing items while on a hike. It is crucial to carry a variety of clothing items with you! If you want to avoid sweating excessively during a warm weather, you should carry lightweight clothing with you.

Sometimes, there are unprecedented changes in the weather, For example, if it starts raining heavily and you get wet, it is important that you have an extra pair of t-shirt and track pants ready! If you are traveling in winter, ensure that you bring more layers with you.

Knife

This tool remains the essential gear of everyday life. It is useful for many tasks, such as cutting a rope or a string or opening boxes. It is recommended to carry a foldable knife along with you while backpacking!

However, you should do a thorough research to check whether it’s legal to carry one! A camping knife set has knives which are designed for greater efficiency!

Sunscreen

Even if you do not follow a proper skincare routine, it is important to take a sunscreen along with you! It is recommended to use a sunscreen for protecting your skin against the UV rays.

While hiking, you tend to expose yourself to the sun for extended periods of time, which automatically increases the risk of skin burn to a huge extent. Applying two coats of sunscreen to your face will prevent your skin from damaging.

Final words

These are some of the things from the excerpts that you are supposed to take with you during backpacking. However, it is important to reflect back on certain things and take the time to look up the track/terrain you are planning to hike! You should also take into consideration the potential hazards, as prevention is better than cure!

It is recommended to do a thorough Google search of the particular track you are planning to hike. See what information is available online. If you are a beginner and not familiar with hiking, go for the easiest route possible and plan your hike accordingly. Choose a track which you already know is easy for you!