Hiking Gear 101

Ok ya'll it is time to get back to basics!

Today I spoke with a co-worker about a valid concern: what is with people going on these long hikes with NOTHING but a small water bottle!?!?!?? It is kinda funny, kinda sad and very concerning.

Let's get it together and own the the fact that anything can happen and it is up to us to be responsible for our safety.

So here are the basic essentials I urge you to bring with you while going on a hike. This is going to focus on day hikes, as an overnight trip will be coming in a future blog!

1. Backpack/Waist Gear- If I know I'm going to be out for a few hours I load up my Camelbak with plenty of water so I don't have to worry about running out in a water bottle. The Camelbak allows you to have your hands free and pack everything you need. If my hike is less long I use my waist gear to carry a large water bottle and hold all my stuff.
2. Sun Protection- Whether you tend to tan or not you need to protect your skin from the sun rays. I like to tan so I spray on a low sunscreen to ensure I don't burn, but can still bronze up a bit. You also should consider lip protection (we all know how much we use Chapstick in Northern Arizona). 
3. Light snack- depending on the length of your hike, you're going to need to fill that belly. I tend to stick with almonds, a granola bar or fruit.
4. Medical Kit- You seriously never know when you need to patch something up before going to find help. I have had a few close calls while hiking where I thankfully was okay enough to keep going and get to my car. If you are bleeding and in bear country you are going to be thankful you have the supplies needed to clean yourself up.
5. Water!- I mean....duh.
6. Bear Spray/Pepper Spray- I hate that I have to bring this stuff. I want to enjoy nature without fear of running into some crappy people. But the world we live in tells me I need to protect myself. I keep the pepper spray in an easily accessed spot outside of my backpack. I keep the bear spray in a mesh pocket on my backpack.
7. Shoes- the right shoes. If I see one more person hiking in flip-flops I'm going to scream. I'm talking hiking boots, tennis shoes or sandals like Chacos or Tevas.

Be safe. Be smart. And most of all enjoy!!!

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