In the current state of the pandemic, which is beginning to seem like the new norm, only a few activities still remain within reach. Most of these activities involve the outdoors, and among the most exciting of these recreational activities is hiking and camping. Indeed, such adventures are synonymous to delirium and joy, however, make no mistake, when immersed in the wilderness, things can get pretty rough and dangerous.
For one, sudden and abrupt changes in the weather can take a toll on unprepared individuals and careless partakers. That is not to mention the likely injuries one may sustain along a hiking adventure, which affects even the most experienced backpackers. Needless to say, if you are looking to leave everything behind and enjoy a few days of nature’s raw beauty, you will need to go above and beyond with the preparations, and to that point, here are a few expert survival tips for hikers and campers.
Do Your Research
Doing your research is crucial to surviving the wilderness and its difficulties. Many rescue stories could have easily been averted had the hikers taken the necessary precautions. Ideally, people planning a camping trip should take into account what the weather is going to be like across the entire duration, as to not leave anything to chance.
More importantly, you will need to make an accurate and realistic prediction of how long the hike will take. After conducting the appropriate research, look to plan how much food and sustenance the trip will require. Perhaps the most valuable piece of consideration you will need to make is the “turn around”, which entails when to turn around should you fail to reach a specific point at a set time. This is so that you can make it back in time before the night sets in.
Always Carry a First-aid Kit
Seeing as you will potentially be faced with infinite dangers, most of which you may not know the extent of, carrying a first-aid kit is absolutely necessary. In addition, in case of emergencies, make sure to bring items and medication specific to you, such as an Epi-Pen or other medication. Merely including a first-aid kit is not enough as you will also need to familiarise yourself with items included. Practice how to use each item correctly and take a class if need be.
Make Sure to Include an Emergency Shelter
When you look to include emergency shelters, you should focus on including relevant clothing that corresponds with the weather conditions you did your research about. The weather will, for the most part, drastically vary from morning to nightfall, so make sure to pack well. Experts stress the importance of layering, while some advise hikers to include quality ponchos. This is mainly for when or if it rains, but can also double as an emergency shelter so that you keep your travels light. However, if you feel capable of packing an actually dedicated emergency shelter, then feel free to do so.
Pack the Right Equipment
After meeting all the other requirements, and making all the appropriate arrangements and preparations, do not forget to pack with you the right equipment and including the relevant gear. The hiking gurus over at www.theusmarines.com stress the importance and need of combat boots, as they can provide the needed support to your footwork and entire hiking expedition. In addition, look to complement the look by carrying a hunting knife and keeping a GPS with you at all times. However, make sure the GPS operates in rural areas and do not rely on your Internet network since many of the hiking trails you will be taking likely to have poor or no network.
Carry a Whistle
Make sure to carry a whistle with you as it could come in handy, however, try to avoid whistles that use small balls in the chamber, seeing as they are not reliable. The purpose if a whistle is to send out a signal during moments of distress, such as if you get stuck in a ditch, or worse, if you get attacked by a wild animal. It will alert nearby hikers and call for the help of experts and control teams that are near the premise. Emit three long blasts, which is the universal signal of distress.
Keep Yourself Hydrated
Perhaps the most meaningful advice you can expect to receive from an expert is to keep yourself hydrated all the time. The reason is that you can survive for weeks on end without food, but only a few days without water. Always make it your priority.
Be Proactive, Don’t Just Sit There
In the event of an accident, set back or difficulty occurring, make sure you are proactive, even when it may seem frightening. By actually looking for solutions as opposed to just sitting there, your chances of being rescued improve significantly. Practical solutions include attracting attention, signaling a fire, and making noise. Exhaust all options and don’t just sit there.
By adhering to these tips, you will make sure nothing stands in the way of your fun and wellbeing. Make sure you are always over-packed just in case. And remember, always make sure to keep protection with you and that you are dressed appropriately.