There are certain things that must be considered before hiking great distances. It’s much different to go for a leisurely walk than it is to carry 50 pounds of weight on your back while you trek through underbrush and rough terrain. Know the area before taking off on a particular hiking trail, ideally choosing trails that are well marked and well traveled.
Primitive trails are chosen by some hikers for their challenges, so be prepared for just about anything when choosing a desolate area. Know a little something about the area: what types of wild animals are present and the varieties of poisonous snakes and bugs in the area. Check the weather before setting out on a long hike, but be prepared for any sudden changes in weather conditions.
The clothing and shoes you wear are very important. Don’t try to break in a new pair of shoes on a long hike; you’re likely to end up in agony with blisters on your heels. Wear a pair of shoes made specifically for hiking and have them well broken in before traveling. Clothes should be loose, lightweight and white or light in color. Wear a light-colored hat to keep the sun from beating down on the head. Use sun-blocking lotions for skin protection. For cold weather hiking, wear warm socks, gloves, hat that covers the ears, and layers of clothing.
Always let someone know where you’ll be hiking and how long you intend to be gone. Should an emergency occur and you’re unable to get help, others can search for you when you don’t arrive as planned. Supply a friend or family with a copy of the map or a drawing, outlining the trail you’ll travel. For yourself, mark ranger stations, main roads and rivers or lakes, on your map.
Take a complete first aid kit along, including splints, gauze, rubbing alcohol, band aids, iodine, aspirin, elastic bandages, snakebite kit, and other necessary supplies. Additional supplies should include cell phone, flares, poncho or plastic, pocket knife, flashlight and extra batteries, waterproof matches, water purifying tablets, small mirror, mace, insect repellant, and clean cloth in case there is a need for a tourniquet. Some hikers to mark the trail back to the vehicle use a can of spray paint.
If you’re staying more than 24 hours, pack a warm sleeping bag, tent, and plenty of food and water. Electrolytes should be brought along to replenish lost fluids and nutrients, along with lots of bottled water. Pack lightweight foods like crackers, trail mix, nuts and beef sticks. Heavier items like tuna not only give extra weight to the pack but are more of a nuisance to prepare.
Since food and water are very heavy, you are limited to the amounts that you can carry. Some hikers, planning on staying for quite some time, arrange to have others drop off care packages along the route.
Stop often to rest, take in liquids, and review the map. If hurt or injured during the course of the hike, attempt first aid, but if you can’t walk or be moved, use cell phone, walkie-talkies, flares, mirrors and other attention-getting strategies to draw attention.
