Hiking equipment

Hiking equipment is the equipment taken on outdoor walking trips. Hiking is usually divided into day-hikes and multiple-day hikes, called backpacking, trekking, and walking tours. The equipment selected varies according to the duration, distance, planned activities, and the environment. Additional factors include weight and preparedness for unplanned events. The level of preparedness can relate to remoteness and potential hazards; for example, a short day hike across farmland or trekking in the Himalayas. The length and duration of a walk can influence the amount of weight carried. The nature of a hike is both by the natural environment and the applicable government regulations and hikers plan accordingly when considering equipment. To minimize the impact on the natural environment, many hikers follow the principles of "Leave No Trace". According to Tom Brown, the basic plan for survival is in the order of shelter (including clothing), water, fire, and food. Cody Lundin writes about the "Rule of 3s"; this relates to human survival without basics: three minutes without air, three hours without shelter, three days without water, or three weeks without food. Hikers may take with them equipment ranging from a stout knife to ultralight backpacking (10–25 pounds), to the heaviest, most durable gear a hiker can carry. Checklists help to minimize the chance of forgetting something important. Considerations for choice of hiking equipment may include: Length and remoteness of trip Optimal weight and capacity Special medical considerations Weather: temperature range, sun/shade, rain, snow, ice Terrain: trail conditions, cliffs, sand, swamp, river crossings Shelter and clothes Water plan Food Overnight shelter Protection from animals: insect repellent, anaphylactic medication, snakebite first-aid, antivenom, mace, bear spray, bear-resistant food storage container Equipment for special activities While Henry David Thoreau and several other early outdoor authors published lists of items to carry while hiking, it was The Mountaineers of Seattle who developed the “10 Essentials” list while teaching climbing courses in the 1930s.