If you're planning a hike in the wilderness, you'll properly have one or two questions that could benefit from an answer.
Our Hiking FAQs section includes some of the most asked questions on day or multi-day hikes. If you have a question that isn't answered here, why not send a message and we will endeavor to provide a response as soon as possible.
Here are the most asked FAQs about hiking:
Q. What do you need to hike?
A. Hiking is a natural exercise that gives the perfect opportunity to get in tough with nature. Thankfully, this recreational activity does not involve a large investment to get started. Everyday shorts and sneakers might do for the occasional hike on a short, easy hike, but for long-term it benefits to invest in some of the must-have items of gear, including:
- Clothes (layers)
- Compass
- Fire starter
- First aid kit
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Food & water
- Knife
- Map
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
Q. How much water to bring hiking
A. Drink water before, during, and after a hike. Most hikers pack too little. It is essential to stay hydrated for the duration of a hike, so a general rule is to pack at least 2-3 quarts per day – although this varies with the level of fitness, the weather, and the length of the hike.
Use a proper leak-proof water bottle for outdoor environments. Place the water bottle somewhere easily accessible, such as a backpack or waist pack. Alternatively, use one of the hydration packs from CamelBak other brands. Avoid carrying the water bottle in the hands which soon gets tiring.
Get a constant intake of water by sipping at regular intervals as opposed to the occasional gulp. A constant supply of water avoids issues with dehydration, improves stamina, makes you more energetic, and it is easier to tackle the difficult trails when well-hydrated.
Q. Is it okay to leave biodegradable items?
A. Leave no trace behind. You are responsible for anything taken on the hiking trail from misplaced gear to trash. If something wasn't there on your arrival, make sure it isn't left there when you leave. Carry out all food waste and avoid leaving misplace gear behind. Even biodegradable items like banana peels and apple cores shouldn't be left behind – this can have an impact on other hikers and also habituate the wildlife to source human leftovers.
Avoid the easy route of burying the trash. Wildlife will soon detect it and dig it up. Plus, it could get exposed over time, which leaves the trash there for someone else to find.
Stick to the rule of leaving behind no sign of human influence. We recommended you dispose of waste properly and pack it out.
Q. What should you take on a day-hike?
A. For a day-hike, a series of perishable or non-perishable snack foods are perfect for keeping the energy up. Hiking lunch food that is less likely to disintegrate in the pack includes:
- Energy bars
- Trail mix (store bought or home-made)
- Fresh fruit (apples, oranges, etc)
- Pita bread
- Cheese rolls
- Dried soup
- Dried fruit
- Bagels
- Tuna & crackers
- Sandwiches
Ice packs can be used to help keep food chilled if preferred. Pack reusable containers to cut the potential trash on the trail.