Summer and holidays are approaching soon. Also, it is the time when hikers are drawn to explore the elegance of mountains. Usually, summers have longer daylight hours and thus it favors the hikers.
However, the soaring temperatures make it quite challenging. To ensure a safe and pleasurable journey, you will need some proper hiking accessories. Essential summer hiking supplies are a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast, from breathable clothes that keep you cool to trustworthy navigation tools that show you the way. This article will explore the best travel accessories for summer hiking that can make your summer hiking experience even better. So let’s prepare for an unforgettable summer by grabbing our backpacks and donning our hiking boots.
List of Travel accessories for Summer Hiking
Hiking Backpack
A spacious backpack is essential for every trip. A hiking backpack has plenty of room for carrying all the accessories you will need for the journey, such as food, water, clothing, a first aid kit, and a tent. They equally distribute the weight across your hips, back, and shoulders, making long hikes more bearable. A good backpack should be adjustable to your body size and shape and fit comfortably on your back. The backpack must include cushioned shoulder straps, a firm hip belt, and a back panel with good ventilation. This will lessen pain, chafing, and discomfort during summer hiking.
Camping Tent
Tent and camping are two words that go together. Therefore carry a tent if you want to camp during your hike. When choosing a tent, there are a few considerations to bear in mind. The tent’s size and material are important. Go for spacious and breathable cotton tents for summer. Sometimes, tent color also matters. Go for colors that have a low heat absorption rate. There are small tents for two people and even larger ones for four or more people to camp together. Thus choose according to your needs.
Water And Towel
Make sure you have enough water to drink along the hike. It is important to stay hydrated while trekking in the heat. Thus carry a huge water flask or hydration bladder based on the distance you are hiking. A hydration bladder is often made of flexible plastic or rubber and is constructed as a backpack. You can also carry paper glasses or mugs for convenience.
Hydrating and cooling your skin is also vital. Thus carry a cooling towel. It is a fantastic addition to keep you cool while hiking in the summer heat. You just have to dampen the towel and lay it over your head or around your neck for a cooling effect. Likewise, you can also consider compressed towels. They are tiny and light and are thus travel-friendly. Also, make sure to carry enough as it is designed for single use.
Food And Snacks
Carry high-energy snacks like energy bars or trail mix with granola, dried fruit, candies, and nuts. This will help you stay energized throughout your hike. Also, pack meals made of lightweight, non-perishable foods if you’re going on a long hike. Remember that perishable foods should not be left outside in the heat for more than an hour. Thus make your food choices accordingly.
Juices, electrolytes, and sports drinks are other options to consider. Limit your intake of colas and other caffeinated beverages as well.
Essential Apparels
Always wear breathable clothes while hiking. Also, pack additional clothes to account for changing weather conditions. It is not just the sudden rains, but also the excessive sweating that will lead to the need for extra clothing. Make sure they are quick-drying materials that will help you stay comfortable during your hike.
Likewise, be sure to include extra socks and appropriate footwear. Your footwear must fit well and be comfy. Flip flops and other unsuitable footwear should not be worn while hiking as they increase the possibility of blisters, sprains, and other foot-related problems. You can also invest in good hiking boots that will offer the support, durability, and protection you need for a secure and comfortable hike.
Sunglasses And Hat
Sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat are essential for sun protection. Your eyes and skin might be harmed by prolonged UV exposure. Thus shield your face, neck, eyes, and ears from the sun’s rays by donning a hat and sunglass. Sunglasses can also lessen squinting and eye strain brought on by intense sunshine. This will also improve your hiking experience and make it more comfortable. Furthermore, they are crucial accessories for any outdoor activities during summer.
Sunscreen And Insect Repellants
Hiking in the summer can get you sunburns. Hats and sunglasses are often not enough to protect from the high temperatures and bright sunlight. You will need a high SPF and broad-spectrum sunscreen to shield yourself from damaging sun rays. Furthermore, look for a product that will last during your sweaty walk. Thus ensure it is waterproof and sweat-resistant.
Hiking in the summer means frequently coming across insects and pests. Insect reproduction is also encouraged by the warm, and humid climate. Thus you will find more mosquitoes and bugs than normal. Carry an insect repellent and keep mosquitoes, ticks, and other disease-spreading insects at bay.
Sleeping Masks
In order to enjoy your hiking trip, you must get adequate rest. Therefore, to ensure comfort, carry an inflatable neck pillow and a sleeping mask. Thus you can rest without exerting any strain on your neck or eyes. Additionally, inflatable pillows will take up less space and weight than conventional ones. Also, the choice to bring pillows and sleep masks on a hike is ultimately personal based on your unique requirements and preferences for a comfortable sleep.
