What to Wear The key to dressing properly is to layer your clothing. In cold or wet weather, three layers are ideal:
1. breathable wicking layer against your skin, to transport perspiration and other moisture away from your skin;
2. warming layer next, to absorb moisture and keep you warm;
3. waterproof and windproof layer on the outside.
Wear a synthetic layer closest to your skin to wick away moisture from perspiration. I always remember the phrase "Cotton kills". Cotton soaks up moisture and doesn't dry readily, leaving its wearer wet and chilly. When you stay cold and wet in adverse conditions, you can suffer hypothermia.
What to Eat Hiking requires a greater amount of energy than many people realize. On the trail, munch high-energy snacks and drink water along the way. Don't wait until you feel hungry or thirsty.
Carry plenty of water. The rule of thumb I use is you should consume one 24 oz sports water bottles every hour while hiking.
Energy bars are convenient for grabbing on your long walks. My favorites are Cliff Bars, which seem to metabolize well without raising my blood sugar too quickly, plus they are chewy and soft even when it is cold. What to Pack Hikers should always carry a day pack--even for short hikes-containing:
fleece jacket
hat, and gloves
bandanna
long pants
wind and rain gear
extra socks (a welcome treat for the feet at mid-hike, or if you inadvertently step in a stream.)
sturdy boots (a must)
Polypropylene underwear
And small survival kit including:
first aid kit (include blister remedies)
waterproof matches
whistle and knife
paper & pencil
guidebook, trail map and compass
high-energy snacks (enough in case you were stranded overnight)
2-4 quarts (per person) of water
a flashlight or headlamp
sunscreen and insect repellent
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 | The Journey Begins "When I first started hiking, I was intimidated by the items hikers recommended. I was use to walks around Boston, where you were never more than a few miles from houses and trails were well marked and well-trodden.
Then I started hiking in the Berkshires, and I got a new respect for the way weather can change dramatically, you can get turned around even on familiar trails if you start to lose the daylight, and even if you don't get into trouble your pack could be helpful to a less-prepared traveler in need.
On day hikes, I use a Camelback pack, which holds my water and all the essentials. I keep it in the back of my car, with a spare pair of boots, and I am ready to hike anytime."
- Julia |
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