In today’s world, many people live in the city and forget to explore the beauties of nature amid the hustle and bustle of city life. Returning to nature to take a breather and discover yourself is an activity that will do everyone good. Trekking and hiking; These are nature walks carried out in different geographies, with different difficulty levels and at different times. If you also want to go hiking but don’t know what you need, this article is for you!
When it comes to trekking, you come across two concepts; hiking and trekking. Although these commonly used definitions are similar to each other, they are actually different. Hiking is more of a day trip and not very long distance trekking. Trekking, on the other hand, is used for a longer and more extensive journey. In addition, the difficulty and the materials required are different according to the daily walks.
What is Trekking?
Unlike daily walks, it is carried out among untouched natural beauties, at high altitudes or in mountainous regions. The distance covered in these walks reaches hundreds of kilometers. With a plan and program, the beginning and the end are usually clear.
Trekking, which covers wide and quite different geographies, requires extensive preparation. For this reason, if you have never walked before, it would be logical to try yourself with hiking, first of all. Equipment and skills are very important in this hike, which requires accommodation in camps or hostels. Motivation, being organized, knowledge of geography, basic camping and climbing will add value to you.
For your first trekking attempt, it would be better to set off with an experienced team or person. It is very valuable to know the way and to be experienced as well as the necessary condition. Experiencing your first journeys with a guide or group will also offer you the opportunity to learn a lot.
What are Trekking Equipments?
Basic Equipment
- First of all, you should get orthopedic walking shoes that fit well on the foot and the ground. You can also choose hiking boots according to the season. Gore-Tex boots and shoes are the best options for trekking. It allows you to continue walking without being affected by events such as water, mud, snow.
- You should get a durable flask in case you cannot find a clean water source during the trip. You should be careful that the flask you choose is not heavy and is resistant to harsh conditions.
- On group trips, you can sometimes break away from the group or experience problems when you are alone. A high-pitched whistle will help to make your voice louder. Keep your whistle with you by hanging it around your neck throughout the journey and be careful not to get lost.
- You need to have a pocket knife with you to cut things in an area and hunt when necessary. For shelter or other operations, you need to get a multi-purpose pocket knife.
- The compass is very important for finding the walking direction and keeping your direction. You can use SILVA type or lensed military compasses for many years.
- It is one of the most important issues to light a fire during the walking breaks and during the accommodation. That’s why water-resistant fire starters should definitely be with you. You should carry at least two of the options such as matches, lighters or magnesium sticks with you.
- The breeze etc. on the walking route. In order not to be affected by natural events, a windbreaker and a raincoat should always be with you. Being left without a raincoat in a downpour will invite disease.
- A waterproof and lightweight fabric backpack is a must for you to carry all your gear. A bag with a capacity of 35 liters for summer and 40 liters for winter will be sufficient. Having many side eyes of the bag will make your work easier.
- Finally, additional foods and first aid kit should be in your bag. Food like a small can or bar will support you during the journey.
Auxiliary Equipment
- A hat is important to protect from the sun while hiking or to reduce the effect of the cold in winter. You can protect yourself in summer and winter by getting a wide-brimmed hat.
- Used by skiers but very useful for long distance walking, the pole is a good helper to reduce fatigue and to load the weight in a balanced way.
- In many areas, especially walking in snowy areas, leggings are a good option to prevent anything from getting into boots or shoes. It protects the wrist and provides comfort during walking.
- If there is a seaside, small river or shallow lake on your route, it will be useful to take a swimsuit with you. Taking a break here will allow you to cool off in a fun way.
- We recommend that you have sunscreen and lip balm for the lips to protect you from the harmful rays of the sun. In addition, sunglasses will help you a lot during the journey. It protects against harmful rays while preventing the sun and snow from tiring your eyes.
- Finally, it’s good to have a flashlight. Although today, many devices, especially phones, have flashlight features, but when you run out of charge, you will have problems on the road. Flashlight or headlamp will be your greatest helper in the dark.
