One of the best forms of exercise is also one of the best ways to get to know your immediate surroundings and enjoy the beauty in your local community. The health benefits of hiking are well documented, like reducing the risk of heart disease or hypertension, controlling weight, creating a better life-work balance, and even helping with anxiety and depression issues. Some people are only motivated by the beauty of what they see during their hikes. Whatever your reason for hitting the great outdoors in your town, there are some essentials you want to have to not only get the most out of your experience but to stay safe. Keep reading for essentials everyone needs while hiking locally.

Hiking Boots 

Hiking boots seem like a given for anyone looking to hit the trails, but you’d be surprised how many people head out on hikes in simple athletic sneakers. The importance of shoes or boots made specifically for hiking cannot be overstated. Not only do they provide essential support and comfort needed for those steep inclines, but they protect you too. Hiking boots are great for protecting the delicate ankle area from injury and protect you while navigating difficult terrain and declines. Don’t leave home without them!

Hiking Underwear 

Do you need underwear specific to hiking? This may shock you, but yes. Everyone can benefit from hiking underwear for its ability to keep you cool and dry, but the benefits go beyond that. Men especially need support in the right areas while enjoying a rigorous hike. Everyone should shop for hiking underwear that is breathable, moisture-wicking, and built to last. As with any physical exercise, you will not only be breaking a sweat but moving your body in a million directions. The right underwear on your trek can make all the difference.

Hiking Backpack 

For most people, going on a hike, even locally, is an all-day affair. So, it’s normal to want to bring along food and hydration to keep you sustained throughout the entirety of your trip. If you’re an extreme minimalist regarding your hiking bag, you could opt for a large-size fannypack to keep around your waist. The bottom line – you’re going to need to bring enough on your hikes that a bag is essential. 

Emergency & First-Aid Kits

You don’t need to bring the same size first aid kit you would keep in your home or vehicle on your hikes, but you should, at minimum, bring along a travel-sized kit. Inside your basic kit, you’ll want to include matches, a lighter, and a firestarter. Include at least a whistle as well as a copy of your itinerary if you have one. Depending on the level of your hike, there are also compact emergency shelters you can bring along in your backpack. 

Navigation Tools 

Even if you’re local and you’ve been on a trail a million times, you should take your safety seriously and bring along navigation tools. People that know areas well still get lost in them, so make sure you’re ready in case it happens to you. A compass and a map should find their way into your backpack before heading out on your hike. 

Hiking Clothing 

Along with your hiking underwear, you’ll want to ensure your clothes are also fit for the trail. Investing in quality hiking pants that dry quickly or are water repellent is a must. When it comes to your tops, at a minimum, they should be breathable cotton; at best, they too should keep you dry. Wool socks, along with a lightweight fleece or jacket, are your best bet for hiking. Temperatures can change with elevation or forest density, and local forecasts aren’t always 100%. Light layers are key when hiking to keep you comfy, so curating a wardrobe specific to the hobby is essential.

Your needs will be different from others, so you may find you need to add to the list. Gaiters in rainy or snowy communities are a given, an extra day’s food supply if you’re going on a long hike, a cell phone, or GPS depending on whether or not you’re hiking solo. But, the above-mentioned are essential no matter where you live or how you hike. Investing in them will help you get the most out of your adventure. Happy Trails!