5 Must-Carry Items When Going on a Hiking Trip by Chris Smith April 4, 2018 written by Chris Smith April 4, 2018 0 comment 0FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail 806 There are many ways to explore the scenic views of the Canadian Rockies by vehicle or motor coach tour or by plane or a helicopter, but the best way to absorb the beauty of the mountains will always be to go on foot. While hiking is not necessarily for everyone – it takes quite a bit of effort to spend a day walking uphill, after all – it is an unparalleled method of diving deep into the wonders and peace of nature. But to make it safe, too, here is a short checklist of items each hiker should have in their backpacks when going even for a day-long hike. Table of Contents Map and compassFood and waterRain gearFirst-aid kitToolsChoose the right gear Map and compass GPS units are very useful for finding your way out of the woods when you’re lost – but they are not 100% reliable. If you find yourself in a situation when you can’t rely on satellites and gadgets, having their “old school” version – a map and a compass – can be life-savers. And they are not very heavy – you’ll find the place for them in your backpack. Food and water Food and water are vital if you go hiking – it’s an extra effort, after all, that involves calorie consumption and sweating, too. Even if you go on a day-long trip, packing a few essentials like trail mix, protein bars, and such, along with enough water for you, can be vital. Rain gear Even the sunniest day can bring rain so make sure to be prepared. Umbrellas are usually useless so be sure to pack a raincoat – and make sure your boots are water-resistant. Nobody likes to walk around in wet shoes, after all. First-aid kit Even on a day-long trip, there is the possibility to suffer injuries – cuts, bruises, and such. So, it’s important to have at least the basics with you – disinfectant, band-aid, gauze, and such. And as a general rule, take a first-aid class – it can prove useful in many situations, not just when exploring the mountains. Tools Being safe and being prepared are almost synonymous when hitting the trail. So, before you leave, make sure to pack some essential tools that you might need when hiking. These include a knife or a multi-purpose tool (like a Swiss army knife), a means of lighting a fire, and a flashlight and/or a headlamp to help you find your way home if you stay out too late. Choose the right gear Make sure the clothes and gear you choose for your hiking trip will serve you well on the mountain. Choose boots and clothes that fit well and are comfortable while being resistant at the same time – few things can be so frustrating than seeing your boots give in to the stress of the trail halfway to your destination. Choose a good backpack with a rain cover that’s big enough to hold all your gear and supplies. They will not only make your trip more enjoyable – if things go wrong, they can be life-savers. 0 comment 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail Chris Smith Chris Smith is the proud owner of Golf Canadaโs West, a company that specializes in providing top-notch golf vacation packages in some of the most scenic destinations in western Canada. With his passion for golf and love for the outdoors, Chris has created a business that caters to golf enthusiasts who seek adventure and stunning views. Originally from Quebec, Chris moved to Alberta in the early 2000s, where he fell in love with the Rocky Mountains and the world-class golf courses that are nestled among them. Chrisโs passion for golf and his love for the mountains are evident in every aspect of the business. He takes pride in showcasing the natural beauty of the region and creating a memorable golf vacation for each of his clients. previous post How funding will be spent in Banff National Park for the next five years next post Geocaching in Banff National Park You may also like From Banff to the Outback: Discovering the Natural... November 18, 2024 Mistakes Every Traveler Makes When Visiting Banff National... August 12, 2024 How To Choose the Best Resort for Your... May 21, 2024 Banff in January: A Winter Wonderland Guide to... October 3, 2023 The Delights of Banff in December – All... October 2, 2023 Exploring Banff in November: A Winter Wonderland Awaits September 18, 2023 Exploring the Spooky Side of Banff This Halloween September 7, 2023 The Complete Must-Have List for Banffโs Spring Shoulder... August 21, 2023 Shoulder Season Splendor: Embracing Nature’s Tranquil Beauty in... August 3, 2023 Awe-Inspiring Banff in August: Nature’s Summer Spectacle June 19, 2023