| So you want to go hiking and therefore you need to | | | | gear. A good raincoat (not thin) and waterproof |
| understand what hiking gear you will need to take | | | | leggings is essential to keeping dry and safe on a |
| with you. The stores are full of lots of hiking gear | | | | hike. This hiking gear is very important for a hike. |
| that they want to sell you. | | | | 3. Hiking boots. Another essential item to your hiking |
| However here are the main things you need to | | | | gear are hiking boots. You need strong boots for the |
| consider when deciding what hiking gear you need. | | | | tough trail ahead. Your boots should support your |
| 1. Rucksack. Sounds obvious but you want a quality | | | | ankles as well as your feet. Make sure they are |
| rucksack when hiking. There are different sizes of | | | | comfortable and fit well. Also make sure that you |
| rucksack depending on the type of hiking you are | | | | wear your hiking boots a number of times before |
| planning. You also need to investigate how to pack a | | | | you use them on the hike. This will help prevent |
| rucksack as this is also very important. This is really a | | | | blisters - not nice. |
| subject of its own. However you need to | | | | 4. Map, Compass. It is obvious but you need to know |
| concentrate on packing the heavy items at the top | | | | where you are going and plan your route and have a |
| with easy access to the things you may need first | | | | map and compass. It is an essential aspect of your |
| (such as waterproof clothing etc). | | | | hiking gear. Also ensure you know how to use them. |
| 2. Clothing and waterproof gear. Take at least one | | | | How to read a map. How to set a map using your |
| pair of complete clothing depending on the number of | | | | surroundings and a compass. |
| days you are hiking for. Your clothes should be | | | | This is not a complete list of all the hiking gear you |
| resistant to absorbing water (i.e not jeans) and it is | | | | need to take on a hike however it is a start for the |
| better to take a number of thin jumpers than a thick | | | | main essentials. |
| jumper. Also please remember 80% of heat is lost | | | | The above hiking gear will help you to prepare for a |
| through your head - so a hat is a must. In addition | | | | fantastic and memorable hike. Have a great time! |
| most importantly buy some good quality waterproof | | | | |