by Anna Grishaw

Created on: May 21, 2008   Last Updated: July 31, 2009

To prepare for a hike you'll need to be in a relatively good physical condition because hiking requires endurance and strength. Of course this all depends on how far you are going to hike. Get all your things gathered together and ready for your hike. Usually you should work out and go on short hikes bringing your backpack filled with your essentials so as you can get used to carrying it.

Some of the supplies you'll need to have include: a tent, sleeping bag, footwear, clothes, food, and water bottles. LEAVE NONESSENTIAL ITEMS AT HOME! You'll want to keep your backpack as light as possible so leave your nonessential items such as your razors, shampoos etc. Pack extra foot ware as you'll be doing a lot of walking and might need to change shoes. You'll want to take extra food and water because unexpected things could happen on your hike such as you being delayed because of the weather.

Prepare for different types of weather by bringing sweatshirts and short sleeve shirts so you can be comfortable on both warmer and colder days. For water you're going to want to plan lots of it because the average intake is about half a gallon of water per day if doing constant walking and activities. Therefore, it is important to bring lots of water so you can stay hydrated during your long hike. This is accomplished by buying 12 pack waters which are bought in stores. The bottles are disposable and you'll have enough water bottles. For food it's recommended to pack light weight foods that have high nutritional contents such as freeze dried meals. These could include free dried fruits like vegetables, beans, pasta, crackers etc. When camping plan your different meals so you have them at least 60 yards from where you'll be sleeping because the meals tend to attract wild animals.

Sometimes hikes would be more enjoyable if they are done with a friend or a group of people. For one you should have buddies to help you if you get stuck, hurt, or trapped. Such "companions" are recommended for long hikes because of the length of time you'll be isolated from others. The most experience hikers can hike alone because they know all about hiking and have been doing it for years.

The next step you'll wish to take is to research the path or trail you have chosen to hike. This applies mostly if you're hiking on private property or unknown trails. You should find different paths to travel, some in cases of emergencies; especially if you have to change to a different path hurriedly. To

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