Thirteen things for hiking

Thirteen Things you need for Hiking

This is hiking Claire Style! I am in no way an expert and can regularly be found crying about the pain at the bottom of a small hillock.

1. Hiking coat, a good coat is essential! something that is light weight and breathable,that you can wear over plenty of layers. That way you can strip as you go, people hike nude (not me though).
   
2. Waterproof pants, not in case you wet yourself. You will be thankful for waterproof trousers, it means you can sit on a wet rock and not have a wet arse.
   
3. Boots, Try on quite a few pairs of boots before purchasing and don't forget to try them on with hiking socks. Your feet will swell in warm weather so they need room to breathe. Wearing them around the house before you go on your first hike is highly recommended.
   
4. Map, even if you know the area well it always a good idea to have a map with you. The weather may have damaged paths or routes and you might need to figure out an alternative route (I can't read a map well).
   
5. Special socks, Spend an extra few pounds (dollars) on good socks! They will save you from blisters.
   
6. Water Bottle. A good size water bottle about litre should do for a short hike, more for a longer one. Don't drink too much though, or you will get a stitch. Remember the more water you drink, the more you will need to wee.
   
7. Food. I like to take a small flask of soup, sandwiches and pasta. Eat a little bit often, but try not to eat too much before a big climb (you may throw it up).
   
8. Bag. Something lightweight and with comfy straps, only carry what you need.
   
9. Coffee. OK maybe its just me but i NEED coffee when hiking, as i am not at my best in the morning.
   
10. Camera, an absolute must have! Thank god for my mate Aly and her camera, otherwise there would of been no hiking pictures. Now i finally have my own, whipppeee!
    
11. Sweets. I find that sweets are yet another essential, firstly for car journey and then as a pain distraction when combating big hill! A nice boiled sweet like a humbug is perfect.
    
12. Hat, to protect you from mighty wind! a hood doesn't cut the mustard.
    
13. Beer in the pub after Hike! ESSENTIAL!
    
    
    Extras, walking pole,change of clothes and shoes!
    
    To see my Hikes so far this year, click here Hikes