By ANNIE RITCHIE / November 29, 2022
Hiking is a great way to get some exercise while enjoying the outdoors, but it’s important to be prepared before hitting the trails.
A hiking belt is one item that can help make your hike more enjoyable. Apart from keeping your hiking pants from sliding down to your knees, it allows you to carry all of your essentials close at hand, giving you quick and easy access to some of the essentials that every hiker needs.
Here are five things that every hiker should consider carrying on their hiking belt:
A hiking flashlight is an essential piece of gear for any hiker, especially if you’re planning on doing any night hiking. Having a light source close at hand can help you find your way in the dark and can also be used to signal for help if you get lost. Plus, it’s always a good idea to have a light source with you in case of an emergency.
Getting lost can be one of the biggest fears of newbie hikers, but it doesn’t have to be if you’re prepared. Always carry a compass or GPS unit with you when you hike, so you can find your way back if you get off-track. It’s also a good idea to leave a copy of your itinerary with someone who knows where you’re going, just in case something happens and rescuers need to find you.
Binoculars are another great item to keep on your hiking belt. They can be used for everything from spotting wildlife to getting a better view of the scenery. If you’re planning on doing any off-trail hiking, binoculars can also help you navigate your way back to the trailhead.
A whistle is a great item to have on your hiking belt because it can be used to signal for help if you get lost or injured. It’s also a good idea to have a whistle with you if you’re planning on hiking in an area where there are dangerous animals, such as bears or snakes. Whistles can be used to scare away dangerous animals, so they’re definitely worth considering if you’re going to be doing any off-trail hikes in areas where there might be predators present.
A hiking knife or multi-tool can be extremely useful on a hike, both for self-defense and for general trail maintenance. If you’re carrying a knife, make sure it’s sharp and that you know how to use it properly. If you opt for a multi-tool, choose one that includes a knife, pliers, and a can opener. These are the most commonly used tools on the trail.
A first aid kit is one of the most important things to bring on any hike, especially if you’re hiking solo. Accidents happen, and it’s always better to be prepared. A good first aid kit should include supplies for treating cuts and scrapes, as well as bandages and antibiotic ointment. You should also consider bringing along supplies for treating blisters and snake bites.
A hiking belt is a really useful piece of gear for any hiker. It allows you to carry hiking essentials close at hand, without having to worry about them getting forgotten or lost in your backpack. By keeping a few key items on your belt, such as a flashlight, binoculars, and a whistle, you’ll be prepared for anything that comes your way while out on the trail. So next time you hit the trail, make sure you’ve got a trusty hiking belt at your waist!