To go hiking, it is advisable to be well-equipped.
THE BACKPACK
There is no need to encumber yourself with an oversized backpack (which will consequently often be heavy).
Backpacks with a capacity of 30 to 40 liters are perfectly suited for a full-day or half-day hike.
You will need to choose one that offers the best storage organization: side pockets, waist pockets, external compartments…
HYDRATION AND NUTRITION
During physical exertion, your body will draw upon its reserves.
It is therefore important to regularly replenish your carbohydrate intake.
You will therefore need to pack cereal bars, fruit pastes, sugar, or dried fruits in your backpack.
You will also need to stay well-hydrated.
Ideally, you should drink 500 ml per hour, taking regular sips every 20 minutes (150 to 200 ml, or 5 to 6 sips).
HIKING POLES
It is advisable to equip yourself with hiking poles before embarking on a hiking trip.
They will prove useful on uneven trails.
They will help relieve pressure on your knees during descents.
It is recommended to use two poles to promote body symmetry and prevent back and joint pain.
It is wise to choose retractable or foldable poles that can be stored in your backpack when no longer needed.
FOOTWEAR
For a short hike, comfort should be prioritized.
Consider thick canvas shoes with a low or mid-cut shaft and a relatively light weight.
For more rugged terrain, you will need mid-cut shoes with lugged soles. They offer excellent foot support and cushioning.
For mountain hikes or wet terrain, you will need high-cut, highly waterproof shoes.
SOCKS
Walking with unsuitable socks can lead to blisters.
Socks made of cotton/polyester fibers or wool/polyester fibers with a preformed heel are the most suitable.
Cotton is soft and durable but is not recommended as it poorly wicks away perspiration, similar to wool.
CLOTHING
Professional hikers generally wear three layers of clothing on the upper body:
- A base layer (t-shirt or synthetic fiber shirt) to absorb and wick away perspiration. (Avoid cotton base layers)
- A second layer (sweater, fleece jacket, sweatshirt) to retain warmth. Tip: it is better to choose fleece fibers over wool.
- And a waterproof garment. Ideally, a GoreTex® jacket or comparable material. While they may be slightly more expensive than classic windbreakers, they are far more effective.
Elastane pants or capris that are “water-repellent” (so water runs off rather than soaking in) are ideal.
Avoid wearing jeans, as they retain perspiration and cause irritation due to friction.
NAVIGATION
GPS is a very practical instrument. However, it will never replace the proper reading of a map.
It will allow you to record your hike’s starting point, know the elevation changes, the number of kilometers you have covered, your walking time… (Caution: bring spare batteries, as they can quickly run out).
Despite the extraordinary capabilities of the GPS system, one thing guides unanimously agree on is that old-fashioned navigation (map, map holder, altimeter, and compass) remains essential.
FIRST AID
It is necessary to carry a mini first-aid kit in your backpack, including: a disinfectant, a set of bandages, eosin, elastic adhesive tape (such as Elastoplast®), a pair of small scissors, tweezers (to remove splinters), arnica cream, and painkillers.
Mountain emergency number to contact abroad: 112 (valid throughout Europe).
Checklist for a peaceful day hike with Sud Evasion:
– sunglasses
– a hat or cap
– a water bottle (rigid or Camelbak® style)
– sunscreen
– rain gear
– a fleece sweater
– cereal bars, dried fruit
– a trash bag
– at least 1.5 liters of water
– hiking poles
– a mobile phone (charged)
– a knife
– a mini first-aid kit
– a trail guide, a map, a compass, or a GPS
– paper and a pencil
– spare shoelaces
– toilet paper or paper towels
– a camera (for memories!)