Its Spring Now – Time to Review your Equipment list
Bacpacker Gear Guide 2012
Now that spring has arrived, hiking season is just around the corner. It is time to review your equipment list before hiking season begins. To help you get started here is a checklist :
a) hiking boots, check – laces, tred,
b) daypack – straps, buckles, thread, zippers
c) hiking poles – straps, handles,
d) rain gear
e) jacket
f) base layer & mid-layer
g) gaiters
h) first aid kit
Other gear – hiking socks, sunglasses, water bottles, mesh bags, dry pouches, camera – batteries, cards, hat(s), sun screen, insect repellent, compass, maps etc.
Important to review & check all equipment and see if there is anything that needs to be replaced & purchased. Always break in new gear before the season starts ie. boots, packs, poles, etc. Allow a month or two for some gear especially boots and packs.
In spring, gear guides come out from Backpacker, Outside, Explore magazines as well new gear reviews. I have found youtube great for gear reviews as well.
Spring hiking requires some warmer clothing, gaiters for streams and snow, poles for balance, and extra food & water for energy. Don’t forget your camera.