Things You'll Need:
- A Spending Budget
- Pen and Paper
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Step 1
Use your pen and paper to make a list of the different types of gear you will need. If you are on a limited budget, you may wish to separate the list into two categories: mandatory items and luxury items. Making a list will help make sure that you do not forget something that you will need later.
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Step 2
One of the most important pieces of hiking gear you will have to pick out is a good pair of hiking boots. You may be able to sneak by with a comfortable pair of shoes, but you will eventually require a good pair of boots, particularly if you are hiking in wet terrain. If you are hiking in ice or snow, you should purchase rubber hiking boots, since leather boots will freeze. Rubber boots will not.
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Step 3
The next piece of hiking gear you should pick is a good backpack. The backpack is like your lifeline. It allows you to transport all of your items around, while keeping your hands free. Make sure you have a durable backpack with padded shoulder straps.
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Step 4
Acquire a sleeping bag and some rain-gear. You may not expect to be caught in the rain, but rain-gear is important to have in your backpack, just in case. Similarly, you may not be expecting to spend the night on the trail, but you have to expect the unexpected. It’s always a good idea to pack a sleeping bag, just in case.
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Step 5
Get a small backpacking stove and some basic cookware to keep in your backpack. You may not expect to be gone long enough to cook on the trail, but it is good to be prepared. Even a small, collapsible stove will work well.
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Step 6
Purchase a first aid kit to keep in your backpack. Accidents can happen at any time, which is why a first aid kit is absolutely mandatory. Depending on the area you will hike in, you may want to confirm that your first aid kit contains a snake bite kit and water purification tablets.
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Step 7
Pack a mini survival kit. You always want to be prepared for the worst when it comes to hiking. Include some fishing line, hooks, flint, a knife and other essential items that can keep you alive in a wilderness situation.
