Okay, I have read everything, been to every site, forum, etc. What I have never seen is a mention of what hikers found that they needed / could not live without AFTER they got out on the trail!
What are the 1 or 2 or 3 items you found out you needed that you did not think were that important before you hiked? Thanks!
Patrick ONeill
Sunscreen is a good answer for those leaving nobo before there is leaf cover. Probably the most omitted item.
The only thing I bought after I started was a small amfm walkman. I didn’t use it hiking, but listened a few minutes every nite in my tent before going to sleep.
the answer man
If you use alot of water then carry a collapsable plastic jug (two gallons ought to do you). Saves alot of back-and-forth to the water source while you’re at your campsite/shelter.
Duct tape.
Synthetic, boxer-length undies (to minimize chaffing, which doesn’t bother some hikers, but is the bane of many).
Orphan
For me it was an afterbite stick. I would have been a mass of scabs from scratching if I hadn’t used it.
socks
For backpacking I like the motto “If I didn’t bring it, I don’t need it.”
A better question is how many items will you send home because you don’t want/need to carry them?
Personally, I like to look at every item I pack a good half-dozen times or so, and ask myself “Do I really need to bring this along?”
Experience definitely helps in this regard.
Mellow Mike
For backpacking I like the motto “If I didn’t bring it, I don’t need it.”
A better question is how many items will you send home because you don’t want/need to carry them?
Personally, I like to look at every item I pack a good half-dozen times or so, and ask myself “Do I really need to bring this along?”
Experience definitely helps in this regard.
Mellow Mike
That is a great question and you’re right, you don’t hear about that very often. My answer: I can’t think of anything. I’ve forgotten to pack things (like a spoon or a headlamp) before, and worn out or broken things along the way, or replaced something with better quality, but that doesn’t count. I’ve never had to go to an outfitter to buy something I didn’t start with.
I’m also a member of the “If I don’t have it, I don’t need it” school, I think.
Garlic
I guess the question I ask myself everytime I go on a hike is how much weight am I willing to carry and for how long? There are a multitude of things that would be great to carry hiking but how many of them will I actually use and are they really necessary? If the answer to both these question is no then I leave them. Each person has their preference as to what they need and what they carry so the best answer for you is take what you think you need if you don’t use it, leave it behind next time. Good Luck.
Daytripper
Sunscreen and ear plugs. You’re likely to have a sunny day in Georgia where you’ll be in short sleeves and with no leaf cover you’re primed for a burn. I got blisters on my arm from one day being exposed. If you are going to stay in a shelter ear plugs are very helpful. I wanted to drag this snorer out by his ankles and stuff a sock in his mouth or worse.
Kman99
I agree with Orphan, Wrap some duct around your hikeing poles. Also small radio with am/fm and weather plus TV band is nice to pick up local weather. Sony makes a small one that comes with head phones. :cheers
Train
a book. On my last solo excursion I left it behind on purpose because I didn’t want the extra weight. I found that after setting up camp, making dinner, and cleaning up, I was left wanting for something to occupy my mind before it was time to turn in. Another good option is a deck of cards - solitaire if you’re solo, whatever you decide on if not.
bugleboy
a comment following “train” about sony armband radio/tv - can’t get tv now with digital, right? i’ll watch this topic if anybody knows different. thanx
frogcaller
I second the ear plugs. You WILL sleep with some loud snorers if you use the shelters. They don’t weigh anything, be prepared!
Blue