The Ten Essentials
for Hiking/Climbing
- Map. A map not only tells you where you are and how far
you have to go, it can help you find campsites, water, and an emergency exit
route in case of an accident.
- Compass. A compass can help you find
your way through unfamiliar terrain—especially in bad weather where
you can't see the landmarks.
- Water and a way to purify it. Without enough water, your
body's muscles and organs simply can't perform as well: You'll be susceptible
to hypothermia and altitude sickness. not to mention the abject misery
of raging thirst.
- Extra Food. Any number of things could keep you out longer
than expected: a lengthy detour, getting lost, an injury, difficult terrain.
A few ounces of extra food will help keep up energy and morale.
- Rain Gear and extra clothing. Because the weatherman
is not always right. Especially above 1500m, bring along extra layers.
Two rules: Avoid cotton (it keeps moisture close to your skin), and always
carry a hat.
- Fire starter and matches. The warmth of a fire and a
hot drink can help prevent an encounter with hypothermia. And fires are
a great way to signal for help if you get lost.
- First aid kit. Pre-packaged first aid kits are available
at most pharmacies. Double your effectiveness with knowledge: Take a
basic first aid class, offered by many organizations.
- Army knife or multi-purpose tool. These
enable you to cut strips of cloth into bandages, remove splinters, fix
broken eyeglasses, and perform a whole host of repairs on malfunctioning
gear—not
to mention cut cheese and open cans.
- Flashlight and extra bulbs and batteries. For finding
your way in the dark and signalling for help.
- Sun screen and sun glasses. Especially
above 1500m when there is a skin-scorching sun and wind, you'll need sunglasses
to prevent ‘snow
blindness’, and sunscreen to prevent sunburn.
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