Richard Rooney M.D, Seattle, WA, on Hiking Essentials

One of the most significant aspects of hiking as a hobby is its versatility and endless options. If you’re an avid hiker or a beginner, there are tons of locations across the country where you can find both beginner and expert level hikes (and everything in between). Hiking can be very challenging, depending on the trail you chose. You can be on a hike for no more than a few hours, or find a trail that requires months before it's completed. Regardless of the duration of the hike or type of trail you chose, here are six essential items to always take with you.

Navigation
Always bring a few different forms of navigation. Though electronics with GPS capabilities can come in handy, depending on your location, service may be limited. Even on a simpler trail, you don’t want to be without a hard copy of directions in case you lose your way. A map and a compass are essential in your pack, and don’t take up much space; they’re also pretty durable. If you’re in an area where you have enough service to us hiking apps or GPS, take advantage of it; however, be sure to check it against your trail map.

First Aid
First-Aid is also essential on any hiking excursion. Accidents happen and are somewhat common when hiking, especially on a more difficult trail. Always make sure you have a first-aid kit, with all necessary items fully stocked. Usually, you can find prepackaged kits at your local drug store or sporting goods store; these generally come with essential elements to assist with any minor ailments or injuries.

Proper Gear
Hiking can be an activity for both cold and warm seasons. Depending on your location and the time of year, your gear will vary; however, there are general items that you should always have. Always have the proper footwear for the day of your hike. If you’re on a somewhat smaller trail, you can find appropriate trail shoes. For more difficult hikes, where you may be carrying heavier loads, you’ll want to make sure you have good hiking boots that offer you the right amount of support.

Food & Water
These to items are a given. Even on short hikes, bringing snacks for energy and a few extra in case of any emergencies. On longer trails, that may require an entire day, or longer, bring items that are easy to eat, have good nutritional value, and will remain fresh for the amount of time you’re hiking. If you’re on an excursion that can take a few weeks, limit the number of perishable items you bring. Additionally, always make sure you have enough water. Your body needs to perform at a high level during a hike, without water, your muscles won’t work as well.

Multipurpose Tools/Safety Items
There are tons of tools you can bring with you on a hike to make things easier. You want to consider items like a pocket knife, which has multiple tools for different purposes. Tools like this can help you cut things, remove splinters, or maker repairs on certain items. Safety items are also important. Bring things like a flashlight, a whistle, or a fire starting kit for longer trips.

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This article was originally published on richardrooneymd.info

About the Author

Richard Rooney M.D. is a board certified orthopaedic spine surgeon who works in Seattle, Washington at his own private practice. He resides in Seattle, WA with his wife and two sons. Throughout his career, Richard Rooney M.D. has distinguished himself as a renowned orthopaedic surgeon. He truly loves the immersive nature of his work and the fact that he's able to help people live better, less painful lives. Through his practice, Seattle Spine Group, Richard focuses on treatment for back pain, neck pain, radiculopathy, and sciatica. They recently introduced an entire spectrum of spine care and stem cell therapy care with a focus on disk replacement.

When Richard Rooney M.D. isn't busy at work as a spine surgeon, he likes to spend his time outdoors with his wife and sons, enjoying all the natural and manmade beauty that his home state of Washington has to offer.
For more of Dr. Rooney's insights, visit his blogs:

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