Best Hiking Gear - The HikingGuy 10 Essentials

✅ LATEST LIST: https://hikingguy.com/best-hiking-gear/
💥 NEW VIDEO:    • Best Hiking Gear 2024 - The HikingGuy...  
01:24 Shoes https://bit.ly/3Ep4uK5
02:28 Sat Communicator https://amzn.to/3R5Sgxu
03:30 Backpacks https://bit.ly/sub-nero-30l
04:15 Hydration
05:42 Trekking Poles https://bit.ly/3L9ixrf
06:38 Organization
07:00 Navigation
10:30 Batteries
11:48 Headlamp
12:33 Nutrition
13:23 Clothing
16:25 Protection
19:23 REI Membership https://bit.ly/35Oj9jV
20:14 Rain Gear
21:23 Survival Kit
25:28 Backpacking & More

In this video, I'll share my day hiking gear list in the context of the hiking essentials. My best hiking gear list is the stuff I use all the time and has stood the test of many miles, wind, rain, heat, and abuse.

✔ SUBSCRIBE: https://bit.ly/sub-hikingguy

#hikingandcamping #hikingandbackpacking #hikingadventures
#hiking #hike #hikingvlog #hikinggear #hikingtrails #hikingandcamping #hikingandcampingforbeginners #hikingandcampingvlog #hikingandbackpacking #52HikeChallenge #backpacking #healthyliving #trails #outdoors #nature

‪@HOKA_TV‬ ‪@BlackDiamondEquipmentLtd‬ ‪@zpacksofficial‬ ‪@GarminInt‬ ‪@SawyerProducts‬ ‪@ospreypacks‬ ‪@alltrails‬ ‪@GaiaGPS‬ ‪@onXBackcountry‬ ‪@NatGeo‬ ‪@AnkerOfficial‬ ‪@NitecoreStore‬ ‪@kuhl‬ ‪@rei‬ ‪@darntoughvermont121‬ ‪@outdoorresearch‬ ‪@SeatoSummitGear‬

The "10 essentials" are a widely accepted list of items that every hiker should carry, regardless of the length or difficulty of a trip. They have evolved over time, but the principle remains the same: to ensure that hikers are prepared for unexpected circumstances in the outdoors. Here's a breakdown of each:

1. **Navigation Tools**: Proper navigation is crucial when you're in the wilderness. This includes a map and a compass. Even in the age of GPS and smartphone apps, the old-school combination of map and compass is fail-safe and doesn’t rely on batteries. Knowing how to read a topographic map and use a compass is a fundamental outdoor skill.

2. **Sun Protection**: Overexposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays can result in sunburn, eye damage, and increased risk of skin cancer. It's essential to have sunglasses, sunscreen, and protective clothing or a hat when hiking. Not only does this prevent sunburn, but it can also reduce glare, improve vision, and protect the sensitive skin around the eyes.

3. **Insulation (Extra Clothing)**: Weather can change rapidly in many hiking locations. An unexpectedly cold front or a sudden downpour can leave you shivering if you're not prepared. Packing an additional layer or two, like a fleece jacket or rain shell, can be a lifesaver. It's always better to have and not need than to need and not have.

4. **Illumination**: Sometimes, hikes can take longer than anticipated. If you're caught out after dark, a good headlamp or flashlight becomes essential. Headlamps, in particular, are popular because they allow for hands-free operation, making it easier to navigate or set up camp.

5. **First-Aid Supplies**: Injuries can happen. From minor scrapes to more severe injuries, having a basic first-aid kit can make a big difference. This should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, blister treatment, pain relievers, and any personal medications.

6. **Fire**: Whether for emergency signaling, warmth, or cooking, the ability to start a fire is crucial. Waterproof matches, lighters, or firestarters are all good choices. Some hikers also pack a compact stove, especially in areas where open fires are prohibited.

7. **Repair Kit and Tools**: Multi-tools or a basic knife can serve various functions, from food preparation to gear repair. Additionally, a small repair kit can help mend a torn backpack or fix broken shoelaces. Duct tape is often cited as a handy repair tool because of its versatility.

8. **Nutrition (Extra Food)**: It's always wise to pack extra food, even if you're just out for a day hike. Energy bars, nuts, or dried fruits are lightweight and can provide the necessary calories if you're stranded or if your hike takes longer than anticipated.

9. **Hydration (Extra Water)**: Dehydration can impair your physical and mental functions. In many environments, you can't always rely on finding a fresh water source, so always carry extra. It's also beneficial to understand how to purify water, using tablets, filters, or boiling, in case you run out and need to source more.

10. **Emergency Shelter**: If an unexpected situation arises and you have to spend a night outdoors, an emergency shelter can provide protection from the elements. This might be a lightweight tarp, a bivvy sack, or even a large trash bag. They're compact, lightweight, and can be a lifesaver in challenging situations.

To conclude, these 10 essentials serve as a foundation for outdoor safety. Tailoring them to fit specific hikes or personal needs is encouraged, but the underlying message remains the same: always be prepared.