You are ready to go on a hike for a few days. But You don't really know where to begin to choose your hiking gear... Here is a list of hiking accessories to bring with you in order to stay as autonomous as possible. You can of course add to this list your own stuff. Just think about staying as lightweight as you can, keeping in your backpack only what you really need!
You must think safety first
Being autonomous does not mean being unconscious. Out in the wild, you are never so far from an accident or a problem of any kind, so you must get a way to alert the emergency services at any time.
You can use your cell phone or the radio network of some shepherds' huts and shelters. Please note that shelters always have a telephone, so if your cell phone does not work (no battery or bad network coverage...), send someone from the group to the nearest shelter. The number to remember in any case of problem is 112.
During an autonomic hike, a good knowledge of the place you visit is mandatory. It is essential to prepare your journey in advance: the place, the itinerary, the equipment, the weather, etc.
Nutrition: multifunctional and light accessories
Food and water are just as important, if not essential. The food load is about 2 kg per day / hiker, so you will have to prepare your menu and equipment according to their weight.
Whatever the length of the hike you're about to make, the recommendation is always the same. Energy bars should be provided to fight against cravings during the trip. Water bottles should not be forgotten.
A multi-purpose knife, plastic bags and cutlery are essential. Also remember to bring fruit juice. It will help hydrate you and provide you with vitamins. Soft drinks should be avoided.
Get you the better clothing
Regarding mountain clothing, the jacket should always be preferred even in summer, as the weather can change from one moment to the next. During the winter, don't forget your gloves and hats. In addition, during the summer, caps with visors should be preferred.
The choice of clothing depends on the season and the region to be visited. In areas considered easy, pants or shorts with a t-shirt or sweater are sufficient. But for mountain hikes, always choose warm clothing. Even if the temperature seems normal, one is never safe from sudden changes. In general, prefer the 3 layers technique.
Also think about the walking sticks that will serve as support. They will also allow you to share and minimize muscular effort. Approximately 20% of your body weight will be supported by the poles and not by your knees, which are fragile. Hiking poles are also used to prevent falls. Finally, your hiking bag should always contain a survival blanket.
Choose the right shoes
Shoes are an indispensable accessory for hiking. One should not skimp on the choice of this material. High boots are the best because of their good support. They protect your feet, especially your ankles. Before buying them, you should try them on. Indeed, you must feel comfortable in them and they must not hurt you in any way.
For stony or slippery grounds, choose your shoes with a notched and flexible sole. You can also add low or high gaiters to avoid humidity (dew, grass, etc). Synthetic or mixed wool socks are also recommended along with your hiking boots.
Get yourself the best backpack
Before any adventure, you will need to prepare your hiking bag. You should always plan everything necessary to avoid unpleasant surprises along the way. Certain details about the backpack are to be taken into account. It must include a belly strap for the proper distribution of its weight.
To make your transport easy, you must ensure a good arrangement of objects: the heaviest accessories must be placed in the center and to balance your backpack, store the rest on either side. Make sure you only carry what is strictly necessary. And remember to cover it with a raincoat if necessary.
Hiking accessories
Your hiking bag should also include :
sunglasses
a change of clothes
a hiking guide and topographical maps
food and cereal bars for those who feel tired
a compass and/or GPS
an alert whistle
a first-aid kit
hiking poles
spare laces
a dynamo headlamp
lighter and/or matches
anti-inflammatory gel
a satellite phone
toilet paper
garbage bags
a waterproof plastic pocket to store some documents
Also to keep memories of your hike you should bring a camera.
Rest nicely in the best sleeping equipment
For long hikes lasting several days, think of the ultimate hiking accessory: the sleeping bag and/or meat bag! You must choose it according to your hiking location and the expected temperature: take into account the altitude where your bivouac will be set up.
For more comfort and better isolation, we advise you to take a mattress with you. It will protect you from the freshness of the ground and will bring you a restful sleep. And to protect you from the bad weather, take a tent with you.
Hiking requires high-performance tools for unforgettable experiences. But the choice of your destination makes this activity even more interesting.