Hiking is an activity enjoyed by many people in Sweden. Hiking is a good way to enjoy nature, stay fit, as well as work on your mental health.
With as much as half of the overall population in Sweden doing some form of sport, it is clear that health and well-being is of the utmost importance.
When planning a hiking trip, there are a few essential items that you will need. While most of these can be purchased from various online grocery and sporting goods stores, finding one online shop that offers everything under one roof is convenient and will save you time in preparing for your hiking trip. While searching for online stores, take a look at Omdomesstalle.se, which is a Swedish review site that provides real customer feedback on a store.
The top 10 most essential items you will need for a hike or camping trip are:
1. Food/Nutrition
Food products should be easy and convenient to carry, prepare and consume, which is why things like protein bars and protein shakes from online companies such as Elite Nutrition are essential. These can provide you with the energy needed.
2. Water
Hydration is key, and you should always carry more than one container of fresh water. A water filtration device may come in handy if you are hiking or camping near a freshwater source.
3. Fire making tool
In the event of an emergency such as getting lost and having to spend the night outdoors, it is essential that you carry matches or a lighter with which to make a fire for warmth and cooking. While matches are more environmentally friendly, they can get wet or damaged in rain.
4. First Aid Kit
Always carry a first aid kit with items such as bandages, plasters, burn cream, a space blanket as well as bug spray or cream to prevent any nasty bites.
5. Sun Block
While a good dose of Vitamin D has its benefits, too much sun can cause damage to not only your skin but can also cause conditions such as heat stroke. Using a high factor SPF can guard against skin cancers and other skin problems caused by exposure to the sun.
6. Something warm
The weather can often be unreliable, and while you may plan your hike for a sunny day, anything can happen, and you should be prepared. By packing in a thermal jacket, beanie and gloves, you can ensure that you will be warm in the event that the weather changes or you get lost and become stranded outdoors overnight.
7. Navigation device
While a GPS device is ideal for hiking, they often need some form of mobile reception which is not always available. By carrying a paper map of the area, you will be hiking in, you can be sure that you will not get lost and can follow the trails. Make sure, however, that you have the most recent version of the map.
8. Emergency shelter
A tarp or small tent is essential in case of emergencies that see you needing to stay outdoors overnight. Most camping tents are small enough to fit into a backpack and can protect you from the elements.
9. Mini tool or repair kit
A multi-tool is the perfect thing to carry with you when you are camping. From cutting through brush or using it to repair a part of your kit, never go on a trip without your multi-tool.
10. Light source
In the event of an emergency or a night hike, always ensure that you have a light source such as a flashlight, as well as extra batteries.