22 Things to Pack When You are Planning a Day Hike
The 1st rule of planning a day hike is safety-that of yours and others.But first, yours. If something happens -God Forbid-to you, you won’t be able to help anyone else. Although I’ve been hiking for years, I’ll admit I’m pretty new to this- be -prepared – and – cram – all – this -stuff in- your -backpack- and- lug -it- with -you – all -day thing.
So, I’m preparing to do the Cape Chignecto Eatonville day hike very soon.I’m consulting my manual and gathering things and hefting the bag to gauge the weight. I even agonized over the backpack-one that has easy water bottle access and is not too heavy, but sturdy. Or the larger one with lots of pockets where I can find things-such as coyote repellent(yes, I bought some) easily. Did you know you have to fill out paperwork to buy coyote or bear repellent? I did not. I bought it at Canadian Tire -it’s about $14 for 22 grams and goes with a o-ring so you could hang it on your backpack for quick grabbing.
And while some of you are snickering about this purchase, I’d better confess I bought this bear bell from Amazon. Yes I did.
A sturdy bag is essential
Now for the complete list for planning a day hike.
- Bear Bell
- Coyote/snarling dog spray repellent
- Mosquito repellent
- Fire starter
- Matches in a waterproof case
- Compass
- Map of trail
- Cheap rain poncho
- flashlight
- Extra batteries
- Water
- Extra water
- Survival blanket
- First Aid kit- moleskin, antibiotic ointment, itch stick, Tylenol or some such pain reliever, assorted sized band aids, antiseptic wipes,sterile dressing pad,1-inch adhesive tape, gauze, tweezers
- Granola bars
- Small multi tool
- Duck tape
- Lip balm
- Sunscreen
- Toilet paper-a small amount in a baggie
- Extra jacket or sweater
- Extra socks
My backpack is actually a laptop bag I bought at Bentley on sale before went to Newfoundland last spring.It’s sturdy – no breaking of straps,hopefully,and roomy.Maybe too roomy. If I filled it up I may not be able to life it. It has lots of pockets to stuff things in-two outside ones that held,my coyote spray and compass and the pocket that is meant to hold your laptop is perfect for a trail map in a protective folder. The only thing I really don’t like about is there is no place for your water bottle on the outside or inside either, really.
The weather forecast ‘right now’ is mid 20 degrees Celsius so the plan is to wear my Bass Pro hiking pants, which are water repellant, has a zippered pocket and zip off to shorts, a moisture wicking top and my Keen hikers. I’ll also take a hiking pole. I think I’m ready.
What would you add? I’m open for suggestions.
Update on the Cape Chignecto Day Hike
That didn’t happen because the road was flooded due to the high tide. Check the tide times for Cape Chignecto )Advocate Harbour ) here
There WILL be a next time.
