A running list refers to a list of items that you start and continuously add or update as other things come up. People refer to it as a running list because it constantly moves along, which increases in length, as runners do. They keep going until the end of the race.
Reasons For Keeping A Running List In Hiking
To keep better track of your hiking experiences.
Sometimes it may be challenging to remember slight details of our experiences. It would help if you documented them close to when they occur to enable you to keep track of your future accurately. This allows you to sift through the relevant experiences into a journal and help you to remember them.
To get readily available phrases and statics for drawing from
When you run into people, you would like to share your experiences in hiking with, a running list will help you have articulated and meaningful responses to give them if they are curious about those experiences. A running list will help you provide better answers that may help you find like-minded people to accompany you in the upcoming hiking events.
To give yourself choices
You may include all your experiences in a conversation, but you will have better options if you have a running list of your experiences and accomplishments. When you are ready to redo a hike or plan another event, you can pick and choose the most relevant one to redo.
A Running List Of Equipment To Carry During Hiking
Hiking is different depending on the trail you choose to use. There are as many types of hiking trails in the world as there are types of roads. It is essential to know the difference between each so you can plan your hiking properly. The items you need to carry for one hiking may differ from what you need for another hike depending on the weather, region, or preference. Therefore, you should create a hiking running list and keep adding the experiences as they occur or the items you will need as you learn more about hikes. Below is a running list of the things you may need during a hike, but you can add others to the list as you go.
1. Hiking Backpack
When going for a hike, you will need a well-fitting and comfortable backpack to carry the gear you need in the backcountry. The bag should be roomy to hold all the essential equipment and include some convenient storage compartments for storing your water bottles.
2. Navigation
suppose you are hiking on a new trail, you will need a map and compass as they are reliable, lightweight, hence won’t be a problem to carry. Navigation tools will keep you from getting lost and help you in finding your way again. However, they may be useless if you do not know how to use them. Therefore, before leaving your house, you should ensure that you learn how to use the map and compass.
3. Sun Protection Gear
It’s imperative to protect yourself from the harmful UV rays when hiking, even during cloudy weather. In your backpack, you should have sunscreen, SPF lip balm, sunglasses, a hat, and some protective clothing. Not carrying these items will lead to sunburns, bleeding cracked lips, and in extreme cases, snow blindness if you fail to pay proper respect to the sun.
4. Insulation Gear
The weather may change drastically; therefore, you must bring extra insulation clothing even when warm. A set of simple layering and quick-dry clothing will keep you cool during sunny days, but you should have a different set of warm clothes in the backpack for rainy and cold times. Since cotton clothing takes longer to dry, you may want to avoid them and carry quick-dry synthetic layers which can manage perspiration and keep your clothes from soaking with sweat.
5. First Aid Kit
When hiking in the wilderness, a first aid kit is a must. If you have done some hikes before, you may have come up with your own pre-packaged first aid kit consisting of all the essential items needed for first aid. The kit should provide a lightweight and reliable setup in case of minor ailments. You can add or subtract from the kit as you plan for more hikes based on your individual needs. Remember to replace any item that you may have used during the hike immediately after you get home.
6. Nutrition Essentials
As you plan for a hike, you should ensure that you carry along with you sufficient calories for sustaining your energy during strenuous activity. Some of the items you can take include protein bars, dried fruits, and nuts, as they are dry and easy to carry. It would help if you considered packing some tortillas, bagels, or sandwiches stuffed with proteins for a heavy lunch.
7. Fire
Although you may not need fire if the weather is warm or you are not cooking, it is essential to know how to build one in case of nasty weather. In your backpack, you should have a lighter, some storm-proof matches, or small firestarter cubes. These essentials will make fire building during harsh weather much more manageable.
8. Appropriate Footwear
For the best hiking experience, ensure that you have the appropriate footwear. Think about traction, support, and protection when choosing well-fitting hiking boots or shoes. You can use trail running shoes for hiking if you are in good shape and don’t have any nagging injuries. Hiking boots are also a good option for water protection, ankle support, and durability. However, trail runners are more popular since they are comfortable, lightweight, and dry quickly, helping you avoid blisters and providing excellent traction. If you are not hiking in a snow-prone area, trail runners will serve you well.
Conclusion
Making a running list is essential when you document your experiences or list the items you may need during your outdoor activities. You can add to your list as you go since the experience of hiking in one area may be different from other areas. Have a running list with you as you plan to ensure that you do not forget anything for your trips or remind you about the incredible experiences.
