When packing for a long-distance hike, you need to remember that it is a no-frills endeavor. The type of geography you are traveling over, and the weather you encounter will be a significant depictor of the kind of gear you carry.

Long-distance hikers and prepared individuals agree on the equipment that you should have in your pack. The pack itself should be a sturdy bag with a rain cover to protect your gear when the weather turns foul. You should also include a lightweight backpacking tent. You should also have a light and warm sleeping bag with a liner. It would be best if you kept yourself off the ground with a hammock, sleeping pad, or air mattress. It is a good idea to carry a camping stove that packs down small with a container that is fire safe. It is also essential to have a reliable method of starting a fire.

It would help if you also were carrying a plate and cup. A quality knife is always essential. You will need to find your way in the dark, so a headlamp is a necessity. Staying hydrated is a matter of life and death. You will need something to carry water in and filter water. The last piece of gear that you should carry is a walking stick or trekking poles.

When it comes to clothes, you will want to carry two shirts that will dry quickly and keep the sun off your skin. Having an extra pair of pants is a good idea. These pants should have plenty of pockets to carry gear on your person. A warm jacket is a must. Plus, you will need a rain jacket or poncho. A sweater made of natural material will ensure you stay warm and dry. It would be best if you also carried waterproof pants to cover your pants in case of rain. Make sure you also have another layer of base clothing. For socks and underwear, use the rule of three so you can wear, wash and have a backup. It would help if you had a reliable pair of boots. Additionally, a pair of easy to pack camp shoes to let your feet dry out. Two sets of warm hats and gloves also come in handy.

Other necessities include a map and a compass. Your map should be in a case to protect it from the elements. A charger that you can carry allows your electrical devices to charge on the go. Waterproof pouches or bags will enable you to keep items dry. A shovel is also essential for your hike to bury your waste, but it can also be a multi-use tool.

Hygiene is essential when you are on a long hike or bugging out in a disaster. It would help if you had soap, a comb, a toothbrush with paste, and insect repellent at a bare minimum. Consider carrying a hygiene kit. Other hygiene considerations include face wipes, sun lotion, tiger balm, nail clippers, and a tick remover.

A first aid kit is essential! Anti-diarrhea, anti-nausea, and aspirin are necessities in this kit and bandages, gauze, and antiseptics.

You will need to feed yourself on the go. Carry two freeze-dried meals per day, along with ration bars. You could also carry nuts and dried fruit. A flask with alcohol is suitable for medical purposes. A little bit of alcohol can go a long way to ease the aches and pains of the long trek. Also, a small amount of coffee, tea, or sugar can make a hot cup of water a welcome treat.

When you are packing your bag, put the things you will be accessing the most at the top and things you will be continually accessing in the side pouches. Pick multi-purpose tools. Make sure that you use the straps on your bag to carry the weight on your hips.

Your trip will be successful if you possess a handful of essential skills. Kowing how to purify water, with or without a filter, is top on the list. As I mentioned before, hydration is life and death. It would be best if you also had a basic understanding of proper nutrition and wild foraging. Making sure you eat enough of the right foods will keep you moving. You can’t camp in any old spot. Wild animals, brittle tree branches, and floods can all present severe threats to your success.

Knowing how to build a shelter, with or without one in your pack, should be a standard skill set. Hungry animals, including bears, should be a consideration when storing your food for the night. In a bug-out situation or leisurely hike, leave your campsite how you found it. Clean up after yourself and make sure you keep yourself clean. Diseases that come with filth is another major threat to your health. Knowing how to identify serious injuries, illness, and infection will ensure you pay attention to warning signs instead of sluffing them off. That compass and map you have in your pack do no good unless you know how to use them to get to where you want to go. Carry a signal mirror or have a way of getting help just in case you find yourself in a bad situation.

Understanding what it takes to survive a long hike can help you enjoy a wonderful vacation or survive a disaster evacuation scenario.