


Be sure to check out our online Trail map to read any Trail conditions reports for the section to plan to explore.īackpacking trips on the Ice Age Trail require advanced planning.
#PDF BASICS OF BACKPACKING DOWNLOAD#
Each hike includes a FREE download from our Ice Age Trail Alliance’s Guidebook, Atlas and Databook, along with Google Maps driving directions to a key Ice Age Trail access point. 2022 Trailbuilding and Habitat Management Eventsīelow you’ll find some of our favorite backpacking trips from all parts of the Ice Age Trail.2022 Annual Conference & Membership Meeting.Dogs on the Trail: Guidelines and Regulations.16 Hikes During the Nine-Day Gun Deer Season.Hiker Resources – Map, Guidebook, and More.Ice Age Trail University – Virtual Sessions 2022.
#PDF BASICS OF BACKPACKING HOW TO#
I have a post that details how to build a hiking first aid kit, it may be useful as you create yours. Use the blank lines to add in your own items. The first aid kit packing list can be customized to fit your personal needs. Since every hiker has different needs, I’ve left blanks where you can fill in your own items. This is a basic hiking checklist, created using the 10 essentials as a base. Make sure to have a warm layer and a rain shell in your pack, just in case. Layer your tops so that you can easily peel layers off and add them back as necessary. Hiking pants, leggings made from polyester or nylon, or any type of athletic pants are usually good options.Īny shirts or tops made of moisture wicking materials. You’ll want to wear comfortable pants, but not denim. Many athletic clothes are made with one of these materials, or a combination of them. They’re moisture wicking and they dry quickly. These work well for base layers and other layers alike. Chances are you have some polyester or nylon clothing already. You can find merino clothing on Amazon or at most outdoor stores, such as REI or Moosejaw It’s moisture wicking capabilities are wonderful, keeping you dry and comfortable. Even though it sounds warm, merino is good for all seasons. The moisture it holds onto can contribute to hypothermia when and if the temperature drops. Cotton holds onto moisture and can cause chafing and irritation. Following some basic guidelines when choosing your hiking attire will have you comfortably and appropriately dressed with spending a fortune. You don’t need special or expensive clothing to go hiking, you may even already have what you need. A jacket, hat, even a pair of gloves can help you ward of hypothermia if you have to unexpectedly stay overnight. Have an extra, warm layer in your pack always. Temps can drop low when the sun goes down. If you don’t want to pack extra water, you at least should know that there is a reliable water source near trail and how to access it.Īn extra layer. Should something happen while you’re hiking and you’re out longer than expected, having the extra nutrition and water can go a long way in keeping your morale and energy up. Use the paracord from your repair kit to set your tarp/blanket.Īn extra days worth of food and water. A tarp, bivvy, or even an emergency blanket can all be used as an emergency shelter. My favorite fire starters are cotton balls dipped in Vaseline, stored in an old medicine bottle.Įmergency shelter. Storm proof matches or a fire starter and lighter. Some duct tape, paracord, safety pins, a small sewing kit with needles can help fix many situations that arise on trail.įire kit. Boot sole suddenly separate from your boot? Repair kit to the rescue. You can build your own from scratch, or tailor a premade kit to fit your needs. I find the commercially available kits to be bulky and contain lots of unnecessary stuff. You can buy a commercial kit, or create your own. UV blocking clothing is nice as well.įirst aid kit. Sunblock and sunglasses and a hat are my go to. Bringing an extra set of batteries is a smart move too Tip- If your map isn’t waterproof, put it in a ziplock bag! Electronics malfunction, break, get water damaged or lost and it’s always good to have a backup navigation plan in the form of physical maps. Even if you use an electronic GPS, you’ll want to have a map and compass with you. What to Bring On a Hike 10 Essentials for Hiking Checklist I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through one of my links. Don’t forget to download your free hiking checklist PDF! This post may contain affiliate links. Use this hiking checklist to help guide you through the planning and packing process. In fact, once you have the basics down, it’s super easy! I always start with the 10 essentials, then food/snacks/water, then anything extra. Packing for a hike doesn’t need to be daunting.
