Although it is not an extreme sport in most cases, the terrain is usually irregular and since we are in a natural environment, we are at the mercy of weather circumstances or any unforeseen event that may occur. .
To ensure a pleasant experience, you need to keep in mind that you must have essential basic equipment when hiking or trekking: But first, don't miss this quick guide to first aid in the mountain. All information is welcome. Prevention is better than cure!
BASIC EQUIPMENT NECESSARY FOR HIKING
Clothes
It is advisable that you do not wear very tight clothing, since the continuous friction while walking can cause injuries, especially when your skin is very sweaty. It is also not desirable for you to wear the other extreme, very loose clothing, since depending on the state of the road you may suffer snags, trips, etc. Avoid short sleeves or straps or you will surely end up with scratches and irritation (in the best of cases) from the sun.
- Pants: Choose the size carefully, and make sure they are waterproof. If they have several pockets, the better. This way you can have small tools or orientation equipment immediately available (compasses, GPS, mobile phone, etc.)
- T-shirts: Long-sleeved and breathable: you will avoid excessive sweating and will help you stay cool.
- Boots/shoes: Probably the clothing part most necessarily and surely the most common mistake of hiking beginners. Remember that you are going to walk on natural terrain that is not paved, so it will be uneven. Make sure your boots protect your ankles and thus you will avoid sprains or strains. Your boots must have a wide sole that protects the soles of your feet. Try to make themwaterproof. If the heat makes this option undesirable, use specific hiking sandals, which are popularly known as crab sandals.
- Socks: The most important thing is that they absorb sweat to prevent injuries, as well as that they are soft and fit your size, so that they do not fall down or fold up. The fabric will depend on the time of year you are in.
- Raincoat or waterproof clothing: Be careful with passing storms. They are not easy to predict and they can catch you in the middle of the road. These clothes weigh little and won't take up much space in your backpack.
The backpack
In this article you will also find the 10 things What you should carry in your backpack if you go to the mountains.
Your trekking backpack should under no circumstances lack water. Hydration is essential, especially in times of high heat. Also bring some food, which is energetic. It doesn't necessarily have to be artificial, like bars or gels, fruit will hydrate you in addition to providing you with natural glucose.
You should wear sun protection cream and sunglasses, even when you don't think there is danger. Unless it is a night walk, you will be in the sun for many hours. Apply cream every two hours maximum, or after getting wet. You want to live a pleasant experience, not increase the risk of melanoma. For the same reason, add something to your equipment to cover your head: caps, hats, scarves, they will prevent headaches... literally.
You will also need a battery-powered flashlight. If you have not planned the trip well (something essential) or you are traveling at night, you will need a flashlight. Also a small first aid kit with antidiarrheal medications, material to heal wounds (disinfectants, gauze, tape, band-aids, etc.), antipyretics, pain relievers, antihistamines, energy gels and water purification pills. This does not need to be carried by everyone in the group, just one person carrying it will be enough, but make sure you pack everything you need.
Canes
It is advisable that you carry one or two trekking poles. Their usefulness lies in the fact that they will help you distribute the weight on ascending and descending slopes and will avoid injuries. You will improve your balance and with them you will allow your arms to help your legs, which are the ones that will do the most work, you will reduce their fatigue and you will also increase the muscles of your upper body (all advantages!).
There are all kinds of them, but make sure they are light (aluminum or carbon), telescopic, with a breathable handle, with a secure closure and a vidia tip. You must be careful with them if you are going to use them in the snow.
Communication equipment
Nowadays it seems obvious, but carry a cell phone. It does not have to be the latest model, although it is already recommended that it be a smartphone with internet access. It is not to check Facebook and Whatsapp every two minutes, although some see it necessary.
It's just in case something happens: you get lost, someone gets injured and can't continue walking, etc. and you have to ask for help or rescue. Also, if you have good coverage, Google Maps or the compass will come in handy. Some even have a pedometer, or you can add one of those "wearable" accessories.
With this basic hiking equipment you will be prepared to enjoy your experience safely!
If you dare to go hiking and meet people, meet ups, etc., be sure to visit our Community of adventurers, and in particular, among our hiking centers. The best network in Spain Promise!
