Hiking gear: our list of essentials
When the days start to get longer and the snow melts, our legs itch and we want to meet spring. Is not it ? But to make sure you don't forget anything for your next mountain adventures, we've put together a list of the essentials to bring with you on your outings on the trails. Have a good hike!
Clothing: your protection
In the spring, the temperature changes drastically and we especially do not want to find ourselves wet, damp, briefly uncomfortable halfway up our ascent. That’s why it’s essential to bring breathable, compressible clothing that dries quickly and will protect you from the elements. Here are the ones we recommend:
- Waterproof, breathable coat to protect you from wind and rain.
- Compressible insulation (down jacket) in synthetic or in down for an immediate source of heat.
- Long-sleeved base layer in merino wool or synthetic fiber to keep you dry.
- Convertible pants (Bermudas / Trousers): Depending on the weather, you may be in shorts or pants if it is chilly.
- Waterproof pants if the weather is forecast to be rainy, otherwise gaiters will do the trick to protect you from water and snow if there is any left on top!
- Thin hat and gloves: Sometimes at the top, the wind picks up and the mercury goes down. Be ready !
- Pair of spare merino wool socks (they do not retain odors and are ultra comfortable.)
- Hiking boots supporting your ankles to avoid injury especially if you are going to walk in rough terrain.
- Sunglasses to protect your eyes.
Equipment: your savior
Everything you find in your hiking bag will be useful for the smooth running of your day!
- Backpack light, ventilated between 20 to 30 liters for a day hike.
- A basic first aid kit for the group: It must contain at least these 10 elements: Sterile compresses of different sizes, regular dressings and hydrogel 2nd Skin to relieve blisters, antibiotic ointment, acetaminophen, tweezers, mosquito repellants, wipes, medical tape, sterile gloves. Always validate your hiking partners for allergies before setting out and make sure they have their EpiPen if applicable.
- Lighter or fire starter.
- Whistle to alert in case of emergency.
- Multi-purpose knife.
- Duck taps to fix just about anything. Trick: you can wrap it around the clip of your Nalgene water bottle so as not to take up extra space in your backpack.
- Headlamp if you ever come back to dark. Make sure you have spare batteries.
- Map of trails to guide you.
- Bag for waste: do you know the principle Without Trace ?
Food: your fuel
It's the fuel that will get you to the top! Choose nourishing and supportive foods.
- 1.5 to 2 liters of water per person: hydration is the key!
- Supporting snacks (example: Nuts, tender bar, dried fruit, fresh fruit) to have enough energy sources on hand.
- Nourishing meals to support you during your physical effort. It's asking to climb a mountain!
ATWith all these essentials for hiking, you will be ready for any eventuality and above all to have a lot of fun in the mountains!
