Great Spring Days Out
Finally spring is here, and the first chance we get we'll want to rush outdoors and see the unfolding season in its entirety
. There's no better way to shake off the sluggishness that comes from being cooped up inside in the warm over winter. The great thing about this time of year is that there's always so much to see; there's no chance of being disappointed even in wild areas that seem quite plain, there's always something sprouting or coming into leaf to remind you what spring means to us.It's a good idea to have a few things with you when setting out on a hike, mainly for reasons of comfort, but as we're assuming in this article that you've got a real thirst for the outdoors already, we're going to be on the over-cautious side. You could print this out and glance over it as a quick check-list if you don't want to be the one blamed for forgetting the map! For a day's walk with a little stint off the beaten track, you would do well to have:
Boots or Walking Shoes: Whatever your preference, make sure you have these before anything else. How your day's walking will turn out depends primarily on this bit of kit.
A Daysack: A small rucksack that's lightweight and comfortable. You're not taking too much gear so this is ideal as you won't get tired out by the extra weight of a larger rucksack. Even when a quarter full, these can weigh enough to tire you unnecessarily. A daysack therefore is best.
A Few Consumables: A bottle of water and something to give you an energy boost, say, dried fruit or nuts, is a good idea to have ready besides what you might be taking for a picnic or an outdoor feast. It's not likely to be a swelteringly hot day, but during a long walk you might benefit in the last leg from some water or a little dried fruit put aside.
Minimum First Aid Kit: Just having a few plasters, a bandage, some ibuprofen and paracetamol is a great idea on any day's walking. If anything, it's more for comfort you're unlikely to get into any serious situations out in the woods, but having dressing for small cuts and having ibuprofen for the chance sprained ankle just means you're a little more self-reliant.
Route Plan or Map: Making the targets you set out to reach in your day's walk may take a little planning; an hour having to turn back on a wrong path could cost you the great view you had your heart set on. Many outdoor authorities have routes on their websites, and maps can be gotten free as well online. Use a colour printer to print out and keep your routes and maps somewhere dry.
Fishing Line, Shot, and Hooks: Where it's legal to do so, there's nothing like a spot of impromptu fishing for a little friendly competition along the way. Poor man's fishing is without bait: Simply cast out your line and reel it smoothly and quickly to attract predatory fish.
Spare Socks: You'll be thankful for these if you come out of a trudge through marshy ground or miss your footing crossing a stream. There's no better way to treat your tired feet and to keep going than changing into a clean pair of socks on the fly.
Poncho or Kagool: If you know the weather as it is in spring you'll want to be prepared for more than the odd shower. A packable, lightweight kagool saves carrying round a heavy waterproof coat. A rain poncho has the added ability of covering your daysack and even most of your body from serious downpours.
That's about all you're likely to need for a good day's hiking make sure you use your printer to print out your map, plenty of water, and a little first aid. Enjoy.
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