Must-have Hiking Equipment Checklist

Hiking is a very energy-consuming activity, yet it is worth trying thanks to the magnificence of nature. If you are a hiking lover, you must have heard of the top ten Essentials developed by The Mountaineers, a hiking and climbing club. Below are ten of the equipment every hiker, climber or backpacker should have in order to stay safe and comfortable during the trip.

1. Map and Compass - These two items will help in navigating unknown territory and will aid in reducing fear and anxiety. This will also lead to fewer physical injuries as you will be able to make sound decisions while hiking. Maps are especially helpful in trails that do not have sufficient signs, markings, or guides. A compass is enough for a hiker to maintain a single direction until he or she reaches the desired destination.
   
   
2. Flashlights and headlamps.
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   If you're planning on travelling in the dark, flashlights and headlamps are important. You can also use the flashlight for signalling and finding things inside your pack. Bring extra batteries and bulbs for extra precaution. Headlamps using LED lights are more efficient in using power.
   
   
3. Extra food and water. Food and water protects you from dehydration or hypothermia especially when medical assistance is far off. Bringing extra provisions also prevent panic from setting in. However, refrain from eating food when there is no water as the body utilises water to metabolise food.
   
   
4. Sunglasses. If you're planning to hike through snowy mountains, using sunglasses can prevent snow blindness. Without sunglasses, you might have reduced visibility and even expose your eyes to injuries caused by flying debris, tree branches, and other hazards.
   
   
5. First aid kit. A first aid kit is useful when you have minor cuts, blisters, burns, or punctures. A first aid kid may also help you if your trek causes broken limbs, fingers, cardiac conditions, hypothermia, hypoxia, insect and snake bites, allergic reactions, frostbite, or hyperthermia. You can also include your personal medications in the first aid kit.
   
   
6. Knife. Don't go hiking without a knife as this can come in handy while you are building your shelter, preparing food, shaving wood as tinder, cutting rope, and other uses. If you are planning on going off-trail, you might need a bigger knife to hack away thick growth. If you could, you can also carry an axe for collecting firewood.
   
   
7. Match or fire starter. Matches or firestartes such as heat tabs, magnesium sticks, or canned heat could help you avoid hypothermia and signal for help. A fire can also increase your will to survive if you find yourself lost in the woods.
   
   
8. Water filter or Water Treatment. This device makes water from streams or lakes drinkable. It rids the water from bacteria and other viruses for safe drinking. This protects you from gastrointestinal diseases.
   
   
9. Whistle. This is a lightweight and compact way to ask for help should you get lost while hiking. You may not be able to shout for long periods of time, but you can blow a whistle for extended periods. A whistle's sound also travels farther than human voice.
   
   
10. Outdoor clothes. You should also wear and bring extra clothing designed to protect you from the elements. Outdoor clothing are designed to be warmer, but this does not cause overheating. They also protect you from the sun, insects, wind, thorns, and cold.

These 10 essential items should always be inside your backpack when you plan to hike. Having these 10 items within reach will keep you safe and release you from worries so that you can better enjoy the outdoors.