Supplies Needed for Hiking

Over the past summer hiking has become one of my favorite activities. It's a wonderful way to get the whole family outdoors and having fun together, while enjoying everything that nature has to offer. There are many mountainous areas where you can find beautiful, scenic hiking trails. Whether you're a beginning or an advanced hiker looking for a challenge, in the North And South Carolina mountains you're sure to find the perfect trail for everyone in your family. But prior to finding a hiking spot, you'll have to purchase the necessary equipment you need for your sport. Before you head out shopping remember that some of the hikes you choose just may turn into overnight trips. So make sure you have the equipment you need for short, as well as overnight hikes.

Boots are a necessary piece of equipment for any hiker. They protect your feet as well as provide the additional traction needed to navigate those mountain paths. You can find quality, hiking boots starting at $50.00 and going up in price to around $300.00. Hiking boots are generally divided into 3 categories: heavyweight, medium weight and lightweight. Heavyweight boots weigh more than 4 pounds and are designed for the more strenuous hikes on ice or alpine rock. Medium weight boots weigh right around 3 ½ pounds and are made entirely of leather. This makes them perfect for keeping your feet comfortable and dry in almost any hiking situation. Lightweight boots weigh less than 3 pounds and are tough enough to handle just about any hike or climb. Backpacks are another very important item needed when hiking. A comfortable, lightweight backpack is an essential. It is needed to carry all your hiking equipment in. Backpacks can cost anywhere from $50.00 to $400.00 dollars. They are usually divided into 2 categories consisting of those which have an external frame and backpacks with an internal frame. The ones with the external frames are designed to distribute weight equally, are much cooler to wear and are perfect for established trails. Backpacks which have internal frames are perfect for those harder to reach, off track trails. Remember that backpacks should be well padded, well built and fit you snugly. A comfortable sleeping bag is also important, essential if you are going on an overnight hike. When shopping for your sleeping bag consider comfort rating, filling and shape. A good sleeping bags can cost you anywhere from $75.00 to $400.00 dollars. And always take the weight of the sleeping bag into consideration, as you will usually have to carry it on your back while hiking. A tent would also be another essential if you are an overnight hiker. A tent will provide you some protection from bugs and the weather. When you are shopping for a tent consider the weight of the tent, the amount of room you have and how easy it is to set it up. A good tent can cost you anywhere from $100.00 to $400.00 dollars. A hiking equipment checklist would include the following,
1. Hiking boots, backpack, sleeping bag and tent ( as mentioned).
2. Pocket knife.
3. Water filter or iodine.
4. Enough food for the length of hike.
5. Bottled water.
6. Drinking cup, lightweight pan and plate.
7. Lightweight clothing.
8. Jacket.
9. Toilet paper, toothbrush and toothpaste, soap, shampoo, washcloth and deodorant.
10. 50 feet of nylon cord.
11. Maps, compass and guidebooks.
12. Flashlight with new batteries.
13. Watch, sunglasses and insect repellant.
14. First aid kit.

There are more items you could potentially use on your hike. But always remember that you have to carry your equipment in your backpack throughout your hike so you want to keep it as lightweight as possible. Also remember that it's very important to have a copy of your itinerary readily available and to leave a copy of it at home with your relatives. This is so someonewill know exactly where you are at all times.