If you’re gearing up for an outdoor adventure, whether it’s white water rafting, mountain climbing, kayaking or just taking a hike, there are certain must-have items that you’re not going to want to be without. While being outdoors can be tons of fun, nature is unpredictable. Preparedness and precautions are key elements to making sure a minor accident doesn’t turn serious.
- JD | Photography
Whether you get them from Altrec or elsewhere for your outdoor adventure, make sure you have these five must-have items handy.
- Quality Backpack – Choosing the right backpack for you might be something that’s easy to overlook but try not to. A good backpack should fit you comfortably and be at least semi-waterproof. You never know what the weather or water will bring you. Make sure that your backpack provides enough room to store everything you need for the duration of your trip and then pack accordingly.
- Compass – Even if you’re going somewhere you’ve been before, it can never hurt to remember to pack a compass. On the off chance that you get turned around or taken down a strange trail or river bend, you’ll want a compass handy to prove your hunches right (or wrong). And if you’re really lost, there’s no better way to start finding your way back. Never underestimate the need for a compass!
- Water bottle – It doesn’t have to be scorching hot for you to get dehydrated. Your outdoor adventure is going to take its toll on you and you’re likely to sweat out a lot of moisture. Make sure there’s enough water handy to replenish what you lose. And when you get the chance, refill your bottle with clean, drinkable water. But make sure you know it’s drinkable (or treated). Otherwise, you could get in trouble, if you expose yourself to ingesting bacteria or contaminants.
- Good Footwear – If you’re going hiking, make sure you’ve got sturdy hiking boots with you. If you’re going on water, make sure your shoes can handle the stress of being underwater, walking on rocks and anything else that might come up. And of course, if you’re doing anything that requires specialty shoes, like climbing, don’t cheat. Make sure you do it right and avoid unwanted issues later on. Outdoors stores like Altrec can help with this.
- First Aid – Your first aid kit is no good back in the car or at home. Make some room in your backpack to bring the essentials with you. Bandages, gauze, alcohol and anything else that could help in treatment of minor cuts, blisters, insect bites, sprains and strains. You can never be too careful with injuries.
[box type=”tick”]Spending time in nature is one of the great joys in life. By properly equipping yourself, you can spend your time enjoying the sights, sounds, and smells of the outdoors without worry. With a whole summer ahead, hopefully you will be able to get out and go on an outdoor adventure of your own.[/box]