4 Accessories to Take When You’re Heading Out on a Day Hike

Going out on a hike is the perfect way to stay active as you get older, but there are also risks involved. On uneven ground, there is a higher chance of falling, and hiking in warmer weather can lead to dehydration and sunburn. However, hiking regularly will improve your cardiovascular health and muscle strength; both of these are increasingly vital in your senior years.

To ensure you stay safe on a day hike, you must make the correct preparations. The best way to prepare is to decide what you need to take early on. This post has outlined four of the must-pack accessories that you should take when heading out on a day hike.

Appropriate Clothing

Although you will be wearing clothes, it is essential to pack extras in case the weather changes or you fall into mud. The clothes that you choose to wear the day of the hike will be decided when looking out the window to check that day’s weather. It is advised to wear layers that can be removed if you become too warm, but extras can be packed in a backpack.

Some of the best clothing items to take with you are a fleece or hooded jumping and a lightweight waterproof jacket. You might also pack gloves, hats, and sunglasses. There are numerous hats that you might take; knitted beanies are an excellent choice during winter, while 5 panel hats have been designed for comfort and their adjustable fit. Additionally, you might want to bring an extra pair of hiking socks as a precaution if you step in deep water.

Long sleeves and trouser legs are often preferred by hikers who want to avoid sun burn and insect bites.

First-Aid Kit

A first-aid kit might add a little extra weight to your backpack, but this kit can also give you peace of mind when hiking outdoors. No one wants to imagine becoming injured during a hike; even the smallest of scrapes can become an inconvenience when you are out on an adventure, especially when you are older. With a well-stocked first aid kit, you can treat minor injuries and manage pain through the use of pain relief.

First-aid kits should have an assortment of items inside, including antiseptic wipes, bandages, blister treatments, insect bite and sting treatments, pain relief medication, sunscreen, and so on. By equipping yourself with these items, you will be able to treat minor mishaps as soon as they happen.

Map

Taking a map with you on a hike is essential to stay safe. Hiking has the highest rate of lost people in the USA at 48%, and packing a map can be a valuable tool in preventing you becoming lost. No matter how short your hike is, there is always the chance that you could become lost. The risk is heightened if you are unfamiliar with the area or trail or there is a risk of poor visibility.

Snacks and Water

Even a short hike will require water at a minimum, but you can make the trail more enjoyable by packing extra snacks. This is very useful if you are hiking with a larger group, especially if there are small children involved; food is an excellent motivator for all ages. Plus, the right snacks will ensure you keep your energy up to complete the hike and return home.

The best snacks to take on a hike are protein bars. These bars are perfect for on-the-go snacking and will keep your energy levels elevated for longer. With lower calories and less sugar, protein bars are often selected as a healthier option compared to chocolate biscuits and similar treats.

By packing the four items mentioned in this post, you will be better equipped to head out on a day hike. This will ensure you have an easier time of protecting your health with this particular activity.

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