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Preparation

What to Wear

hats

Hats

Hats, or any other type of warm head covering should be worn, since most body heat is lost through the head. If you think your hat might get wet, it might be best to bring a spare.

Scarf

Scarves

These help to protect from cold air from reaching your neck area. Don’t wrap it too tightly around your neck: it should fit snugly, not tight enough to endanger your breathing.

Water Proof Jacket

Waterproof Jacket

An outer, waterproof jacket is always recommended on hikes in order to better trap warmth. Make sure the jacket fits you well; not too big or small.

layered clothes

Layered Clothes

This should consist of at least 2 parts: a woolen layer under your jacket to absorb perspiration, and a bottom underwear layer to allow your skin to breathe.

gloves

Gloves

Gloves are the hand protector of choice when hiking, as they warm hands more effectively than gloves! Be sure to carry a spare pair in case your current ones get wet.

thick pants

Thick Pants

These act as a windbreaker for the legs, and help to protect you from the cold. As with underclothes, layering in general is useful for trapping warm air near your body.

Water Proof Boots

Waterproof Boots

Waterproof boots are always recommended in order to better guard against water, which can be a potential freezing hazard. Always carry a spare pair of socks for extra insulation.

What to Bring

Whistle

whistle

If you ever get trapped or lost, a whistle is good to have so you have a way to call for help when you are in trouble and to notify others of your location.

compass

compass

Use the compass along your hike to keep track of the directions, and get your bearings in case you get lost.

chocolate bar

energy snacks

Energy snacks, such as raisins and nuts, should be brought to be consumed on the go, helping to prevent exhaustion.

water bottle

Water

Drinking keeps you refreshed and prevents hypothermia. Other non-alcoholic drinks can be brought, but limit your intake of caffeine.

candles

Candles

Candles can provide enough heat to keep you warm and safe from hypothermia in an emergency. Keep your candle in a perforated can for easy-to-hold access.

flashlight

flashlight

If you decide to stay out late, a flashlight becomes useful for when it gets dark. This will also help others locate you if you become lost on your trip.

first aid

first aid kit

Never leave for a hike in the wilderness without a first aid kit! You never know when you'll need to treat minor bumps and bruises in cases of emergencies.

extra clothes

Extra clothes

Bring an extra change of clothes in case of sudden changes in temperature or if your clothes get wet. Doing so prevents the chances of getting hypothermia.