The first question that arises for those who are planning to go hiking for the first time is “What to take with me?” We can write a whole article about each hiking item, but here we have collected the hiking gear list for one-day hikes.
Backpack
Backpack leads the hiking gear list. The most common question for beginners is which backpack to choose? Everyone wants to buy one backpack, which they will use for both one-day hikes and hikes with overnight. However, we must disappoint you, because such backpack does not exist. For one-day hike, you need a backpack with a capacity of 25-45 liters, because in one-day hikes you will not need a tent, sleeping bag, clothes and food for several days. For overnight hikes, you need a backpack with a capacity of 70-90 liters to fit all of the above items.
There is a big variety of hiking backpacks. Choose a backpack designed for hiking and climbing. The rest is a matter of taste. Bright colors will help you to stand out in the nature or find your backpack easily in case of losing it.
First-aid kit
It is one of the essential things of a hiking gear list. In the first-aid kit, you must have pain relievers, antispasmodics, allergy medicines, materials for treating and dressing wounds, and so on.
Container for Water
You need a metal water bottle. Such bottle can be used for many years. This way you will save your money and protect the environment. You will not buy water every time and promote the production of plastic.
Trekking Poles
Trekking poles are an integral part of the hikes. The more difficult is the hike, the more you feel the need for trekking poles. These poles not only serve as “additional legs” but also reduce the tension from knees by 25-30%, distributing the load from the legs to the arms and shoulders.
Hiking Gaiters
Hiking Gaiters are an essential element of your gear for winter and spring backpacking. Many backpackers and hikers also use them year round. You can read more about hiking gaiters here.
Warm Clothes
In the mountains weather changes unexpectedly, and having warm clothes is obligatory. However, having warm clothes does not mean that you should take your entire wardrobe.
Raincoat
A raincoat is the simplest and cheapest hiking item that should be in your backpack in any weather. There are many types of raincoats. The most convenient of them is a hiking raincoat called “poncho”. The poncho also protects the backpack, preventing your belongings from getting wet, even during a long rain.
Cap or Bandanna
If you are planning to go hiking, then you should forget the phrases “I don’t like caps”, “I don’t look beautiful in a cap” and so on. A hiker must have a cap, bandanna or a buff. Walking without a cap under a burning sun may be very dangerous for you.
Winter hat
A winter hat is essential even in summer. In the mountains, the weather changes unexpectedly. For example, in summer, on Mount Aragats or on the top of Mount Azhdahak you can often feel the need for a warm hat. Take care of your ears so that they serve you for a long time.
Sunglasses
Having sunglasses is necessary in summer and obligatory in winter. Especially in sunny weather, walking on snow is very dangerous. The rays of sun reflecting on the snow can “burn” your eyes and cause snow blindness. Therefore, it is necessary to wear sunglasses when hiking in the mountains, especially in winter.
Flashlight
For hikes, you will need a headlamp. The biggest advantage of these flashlights is that your hands are completely free. Choose a flashlight with batteries. It is impossible to charge electronics in nature, and spare batteries will save you everywhere.
Spoon, knife, metal cup and bowl
Camping utensils should be metal, durable. Take care of nature and give up disposable plastic dishes.
Lighter or matches
Always have lighter or matches with you. Do not rely on smokers. Sometimes no one smokes in a hiking group, and all participants remain without fire.
Swimsuit
You need to take a swimsuit with you not only when you are going to Lake Sevan, but also when climbing the mountain. The temptation to swim in the cold lakes found in the mountains is great. If you have a swimsuit with you, you will not miss the chance to swim in mountain lakes.
Towel
You will surely need it after swimming.
Plastic bags
Plastic bags are useful for collecting the waste. They are also needed after the hike. You can put them on dirty shoes not to contaminate the bus and to escape the angry gaze of the driver.
Personal hygienic supplies
We will not speak much about this point, because everyone knows very well what hygiene products you need to have with you.
After getting all the things that we have mentioned in this hiking gear list, you will be ready for one-day hike.
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One Day Hiking in Armenia
