Spring Break – Let’s Take a Hike!

Spring is here and it is time to enjoy the breeze outdoors. Get off that comfy sofa you have become extra close to over the winter and dust off those hiking boots. Before you head out on your adventure, make sure you check out these tips to pack the perfect bag. So what are you waiting for? Nature is calling!

Preparing for Your Hike

The first step in beginning your hiking adventure should be to pick a hiking buddy. While there is nothing wrong with a little alone time, it is not safe to travel alone on long trails. The next step is picking your destination. Having a good plan and mapping out the area where you will be hiking will ensure you start this hike a little more comfortable with your surroundings.

Now it is time to pack your bag. This is the most important step to make sure you are fed, hydrated and  prepared for anything the wilderness has to throw at you. We suggest making a list, so we have compiled some of the perfect snacks and drinks to pack for your next on-foot adventure.

Don’t forget these key essentials:

• Map and compass/GPS
• Rain gear and extra clothing
• Safety items: fire starter, matches and a whistle
• Knife or multipurpose tool
• Sun screen, SPF-rated lip balm and sunglasses
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First-aid kit (see our list below)
• Shelter: tent, tarp, reflective blanket, insulated sleeping bag

Packing the Perfect  Snacks

Before you pack your food, think about how long you will be gone and how far you will be traveling. It is important to eat to keep up your energy, so pack enough food to keep you sustained. Here are some smart snacks that won’t take up a lot of space in your bag:

• GreenWise granola and ready to eat cereal.
• Granola bars and energy bars. Be sure to look for the Better Choice tags to help you select bars with more protein and fiber and less saturated fat and added sugar
• Trail Mix – choose varieties with mostly dried fruit and nuts
• Dried Fruit – try cranberries, apples, mango or cherries
• Nuts – look for unsalted or lightly salted
• Fruit
• Nut butters – squeeze packs or cups
• Jerky – look for Better Choice shelf tags to help you select varieties with less saturated fat and sodium
• Bagels and bread – look for 100% whole wheat varieties

Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is the key to a successful hike. Plan on bringing or having access to water and sports drinks. For activities under an hour, water is recommended to rehydrate, but for exercise that lasts longer than an hour, a sports drink with electrolytes may be needed. If you need to save space, use instant drink mixes like Gatorade or you can use electrolyte tablets that can be mixed with water.

You can only carry so much water along with your already heavy bag. Consider investing in a water purifier. If you are hiking nears streams or rivers this will guarantee that if you run out of water you can purify the natural running water source and stay hydrated.

“Just In-Case Bag”

While it is important to plan for a safe hike, it is always best to be prepared for any emergency. Adding a little extra weight to your pack to ensure you can be ready for anything is a smart idea. According to the American Hiking Society, be sure to include the below essentials:

• Bandages (include different sizes)
• Antiseptic wipes
• Alcohol swab
• Triple antibiotic ointment
• EMT shears
• Splinter picker/ tick remover forceps
• Safety pin
• Ibuprofen tablets
• Acetaminophen tablets
• Aspirin tablets
• Gloves
• Sterile gauze
• Medical tape

So the weather is perfect, you have packed your bag and you are ready for a hike! Let’s go, nature is calling! Share some of your favorite hiking spots in the comments below!