Hiking in the great outdoors is exhilarating because you become one with nature. While hiking, things rarely go awry. However, it is necessary to prepare yourself for emergencies. Some examples of these are extreme weather, animal attacks or accidents. An emergency kit provides the items you require if faced with such circumstances. Here’s how to pack yours for the next hiking expedition.
Determine your hiking situation
The contents of your hiking emergency kit depend on the hiking location, your skill level and the level of comfort you desire while hiking. Begin by determining these factors. They’ll guide you towards an emergency kit that is well stocked, safe and effective.
- An outdoor knife
An outdoor knife is the most versatile item in your emergency kit because you can do many different things with it. With a good blade in hand, you can shave kindling, cut foliage, cut through game meat and protect yourself against wild animals.
Your outdoor knife should be strong and compact. It must have a sharp edge and feel robust in your hand. You can carry a rigid or a folding outdoor knife in your hiking emergency kit. If you choose a folding outdoor knife, ensure that the hinge is very strong.
2. Duct tape
Good old duct tape is a must-have item in your emergency kit because it can fix almost anything! Duct tape can mend torn gear, restore a ripped tent and patch up a blister too! This versatile item should always be included in your emergency kit. Look for pre-made rolls of duct tape because they are small enough to fit in your pack without taking up too much space.
3. A hiking headlamp
Your survival on the hiking trail depends on whether you can see where you’re going and what you’re doing. As such, a hiking headlamp is essential in your emergency survival kit. You can get lightweight, powerful LED headlamps in hiking gear stores. Pick a waterproof unit that has a wide spandex strap.
4. Firestarter
It is very important to stay warm on the hiking trail; especially if you are camping. Fire provides light and heat for you. You can use it to cook a light meal and keep wild animals at bay.
To get one started quickly, you’ll need a firestarter. There are customized firestarters available in camping gear stores. This amenity is an essential part of your emergency kit.
5. Water treatment tablets
What happens if you run out of water while on your hike? For most hikers, this would be a life-threatening situation! Avoid ending up on this spectrum by carrying some water treatment tablets in your emergency kit.
After fetching water from a stream or river, simply pop these tablets in it. They’ll kill all the harmful bacteria and fungi leaving you with safe, drinkable water. Filter the water to get rid of bugs or debris. If you don’t have a purpose-built filter, use your bandanna.
6. A compass
Hikers use sophisticated GPS navigation gadgets and smartphones to find their way around the backcountry. While these devices are accurate, they can suffer from power loss or mechanical damage.
What happens when your unit dies on you? You’ll turn to the good old compass in your emergency kit. A compass and a map can help you navigate out of the densest jungle to safety. It is a very important item to have in your kit.
7. A space blanket
Shiny, lightweight and surprisingly warm, the space blanket is technology’s gift to hikers. It can be used as an overall against adverse weather. You can also use it to create a makeshift tent. If you get lost, use the reflective space blanket to signal for help. It is a high-tech item that should always be in your hiking emergency kit.
8. First-aid supplies
Last but not least, carry some first aid supplies in your emergency kit. They include band-aids, rubbing alcohol, burn pads, tweezers, a splint and a wrap. Also add some dental floss, a needle and pain killers to stitch up wounds quickly. If you’re going on a mountain hike, include some adrenaline shots, morphine, sterile syringes and hypodermic needles. These items can be used to perform minor reconstructive surgery in the field in case of severe injury.
Summary
We always insist that hikers carry an emergency kit. In case of an accident or animal attack, it can preserve your life until professional help arrives. Pack the items above in your emergency kit. Not only will you have peace of mind, but you’ll also face the hiking trail with confidence!
Thank you so much for these vital information
Could you may be tell us more where we can find a trusted outlet for some of the items listed here!
Hey Tinega. Glad you found the post helpful. You may find the items in major supermarkets around Nairobi. We would recommend Game Stores. When choosing your gear, go for lightweight, compact items.