Hello Beautiful!
I have promised a post outdoor gear for when I am hiking or when I am scouting for camping spots. Of course, what I pack, varies with every trip because I won’t be going to the same place every time or doing the exact same things. I will start by telling you what I pack, then I will go into what I usually wear and why, and finally I will include some safety and other tips from my outdoor experience.
What I wear:
Of course this isn’t the same every single time. I love my athletic clothes and I like to use them! It depends on the weather but for hiking I will wear either shorts or Capri leggings if it is warm. Longer and thicker tights are a must when I am hiking in colder weather.
Though, I am a California resident here, so hiking in the cold isn’t so bad. When I scout for camping spots, despite weather, I will usually head out in long leggings/tights that will cover my ankles.
I never scout on my own so I go with my boyfriend. He leads us to good camping spots and they are all usually off trails and through the trees and shrubs. With that, I prefer longer tights so that spikes and sharp branches and rocks don’t affect by pace.
Active wear:
As for shoes, I will usually wear regular running shoes. Honestly I could wear slippers too. I feel best hiking around in plush shoes but I can also feel the ground underneath to keep my grip and not fall over. Thin and comfortable is my go-to for climbing or hiking shoes.
What I pack:
First AID
One thing I would take with me if I was stranded on an island is lip balm with SPF. This lip balm with SPF by Neutrogena is well loved. My lips are super sensitive and this one works very well for me!
Pack for hygiene
Wipes! I regularly have baby wipes, but these are the Target brand (Up & Up) flush-able wipes. Wipes are used for multiple reasons, but are most useful for cleaning up on the go.
More wipes! These are for getting rid of bacteria. I like to use these throughout since I would most likely be touching the ground, trees, dirt and so many other things. So if there isn’t any water I will use these before I eat or before putting my hands to my face.
Snack
This is a KIND granola bar, but I often bring a variety of snacks with me. I actually adore KIND bars. It is made so well with lovely flavor mixes that I actually enjoy without thinking it’s just bird food. The Oats & Honey is delicious.
Usually, I’d throw in my bag some fruits as well!
When darkness falls
I honestly have a flashlight everywhere I go. In case scouting takes longer than expected and the sun goes down, these will come to be very handy. I can’t remember exactly what this one is called but I did get it from Amazon.
This flashlight is waterproof and has a few features in light intensity and diameter coverage.
In addition, adult glow sticks! I’m pretty sure that I jumped on purchasing these to satisfy the child in me. I’ve always loved glow sticks and if you’re like me, you want to use these like the Spy Kids did…. 😉 (Please entertain yourselves with two examples 1. Spy Kids, 0:30 2. Spy Kids 2, 0:05)
Other than the fact that these are so fun, I keep a few of these around for emergencies. They don’t need batteries and just all around practical, I think. I also purchased a pack of these from Amazon.
Protection
Rarely do I leave my house without a pocket knife. I try not to leave it behind because it could protect me, but mostly I find that it is just so useful for everyday life. I can quickly detach something, open boxes (probably Amazon boxes) and get me out of sticky situations.
Pepper spray is also highly recommended! Good for long-range protection against weirdos and bears.
Tech Gear
This is a waterproof case I use to go everywhere and do everything. Even if I won’t be swimming that day, but I use to because it is sturdy, has a lanyard to hang on my bag, and in case it rains or I’m near a lake, I’d be prepared.
Tip: Make sure all flaps and openings are securely closed before going into the water. (I made the mistake of NOT checking before going into SALT water and fried my phone :/ )
My most loved Nalgene bottle. This is designed to mimic the military bottles and I love the shape. I could hold it by the cap loop or by the sides which is super easy due to the groove of the bottle.
Tips:
I’ll include these tips as bullet points for an easy read!
- Long pants, like I have said above, to avoid scratches and stabs. Helps if you’re going off trail and are afraid of bugs.
- Keep your knife and your flashlight ON your person in case you lose your pack.
- Invest in pepper spray. A more difficult to accidentally hurt yourself, unlike a knife. This is unless you are experienced with handling a pocket knife.
- Also keep your phone on you. (My waterproof phone case can attach to a carabiner that I can easily use to clip on).
- Use a waterproof flashlight so you are sure it’ll work even in the rain.
- If you stop by a gas station or fast food restaurant, grab napkins to use when you have to do your business. They should be biodegradable so it is easier to toss then wet wipes.
- With that, bring a large Ziploc bags to use as a waste container for your wet wipes.
- Always bring little snack, you won’t regret it and neither will the people scouting with you.
- SPF in your lip balm!
- Bring super glue if you get a bad cut and can’t go to the hospital immediately. It is sterile if you close it up right away.
- No deodorant? Use your alcohol wipes (the odor is from the growth of bacteria). The alcohol should take care of that. No alcohol? Use some flowers..
- Bring slippers in case you need to walk in a bit of water. No one likes trench feet.
I’ll update these tips if I can think of anything else. Of course, feel free to comment below with any input and questions! I would love to learn from you and answer any questions you may have as well!
You can email me your questions or keep up with me on IG!
Also, if you haven’t already, check out my VIDEO on my site or on YouTube.
Cheers! 🙂
Crystal