Hiking can be a fulfilling and rewarding adventure, but having a few simple hacks in your back pocket can make your journey even more enjoyable. From practical tips to improve comfort to clever ways to handle gear, these hacks will help you make the most of your time in the great outdoors. Let’s dive into these 10 easy hacks that every hiker should know.
1. Break in Your Hiking Boots the Right Way
The key to comfortable hiking boots is breaking them in before hitting the trail. Don’t wait for your big hike to break them in—wear your boots everywhere you can. Whether it’s running errands, walking around the house, or going to work, wearing them regularly will help soften the material and prevent painful blisters.
2. Save Space in Your Backpack
One of the best hacks for reducing the weight and space in your pack is to get rid of unnecessary packaging. When packing items like your tent, take out all the individual bags they come in. Just pack the tent, the stakes, and the poles—leaving the extra bags behind helps save space and lightens your load.
3. Keep Your Gear Dry
Rain is unpredictable, and you’ll want to protect your belongings from getting soaked. A simple trick is to line your backpack with a trash bag before packing your gear inside. This will keep your items dry if you get caught in the rain. Just close the bag to seal everything in—no need to tie it up.
4. Find Your Way Back with a Compass
If you’re worried about getting lost, packing a compass is an easy solution. Before you head out on the trail, point the compass in the direction of your starting point (like the trailhead or your vehicle) and take note of the direction. If you lose your way, follow the reading you took to get back to your starting point.
5. Estimate Daylight Left
Wondering how much daylight you have before it gets dark? Here’s a quick trick: extend your arm toward the horizon where the sun is setting. Each finger width from the horizon to the sun roughly represents 15 minutes of remaining daylight. This can help you plan your time efficiently.
6. Simplify Your First Aid Kit
Carrying a bulky first aid kit isn’t necessary if you only need the basics. Use a sandwich bag as your first aid kit—take out the essentials from a pre-packaged kit, like Band-Aids and pain relievers, and add any items you may need, such as antihistamines for bee stings. This keeps your kit compact and lightweight.
7. Combat Odors with a Tea Bag
A simple tea bag can help fight bad odors while hiking. If your hiking boots start to smell or you’re dealing with the smell of used toilet paper in your pack, tuck a tea bag inside. It’ll help neutralize unpleasant smells, and you won’t have to worry about it making a mess.
8. Remove Poison Ivy Oils and Ticks
After a summer hike, you may encounter poison ivy oils or ticks. A great way to combat this is by bringing a cooler with ice and some ice water, along with a sandwich bag containing rags and Dawn dish soap. Wash your skin with the cold soap to remove poison ivy oils, then follow up with rubbing alcohol to eliminate ticks and other contaminants.
9. Ensure Your Backpack is Comfortable
For a comfortable hiking experience, it’s crucial to adjust your backpack every time you wear it. Loosen your straps before putting the pack on, and if you take it off during the hike, readjust the straps when you put it back on. Pay attention to the shoulder, hip, and sternum straps to avoid discomfort over long distances.
10. Keep Your Feet Dry
If your boots get wet during your hike, it’s important to keep your feet dry. Bring an extra pair of socks and some plastic grocery bags. Once your socks are soaked, dry your feet off, put on the dry socks, and slip the bags over your feet before putting your boots back on. The plastic will help keep moisture from reaching your dry socks and protect you from cold, wet feet.
These simple hiking hacks can make a big difference in your outdoor experience. By applying these tips, you can hike more comfortably, stay prepared, and enjoy your time in nature to the fullest. Happy hiking!
