Preparing for the Season – Part 1 – Equipment
A new year has begun, 2015, and it is time to start preparing for the upcoming hiking season. The first order of business is to do an inventory of your equipment, review the condition of the equipment and see what needs to be replace before the season starts.
Here is a checklist to help you start with your equipment inventory :
hiking boots, daypack, hiking poles, baselayers, midlayers, rain gear, hats, sunglasses, hiking shorts/pants, hiking socks, gaiters, headlamp, first aid kit, sunscreen, insect repellent, water bottles, maps, compass, gps, camera, batteries, etc.
The winter season is usually a great time for sales as many stores are dumping their stock after Christmas. Check the outdoor stores near you or visit their websites for sales. I managed to save 30-50% off with MEC (Mountain Equipment Co-op ) on baselayers & midlayers. In April, watch for the gear guides of outdoor magazines & stores and new equipment.