This is the summer for exploring your own backyard, particularly the countryside, in all its glory. Muddy, hilly, and undeniably beautiful, country walks are the perfect antidote to the current crisis. You’ll be able to adhere to social distancing mandates, get some fresh air, and feel like the world is your oyster.
For those who haven’t been on a country walk before or who want to start enjoying long walks more frequently, however, you’ll need to stock up and buy a few things. You can walk without them sure, but if you want to enjoy hours outdoors in comfort and safety you will want to invest in:
Hiking boots
You will want hiking boots that can handle all types of terrain and, most importantly, mud. They should be waterproof to an extent and offer you excellent support, so you reduce the risk of trips and falls on your walk. After all, if you trip and twist an ankle, there’s no other way to get home other than to walk on it. Take care and get proper footwear.
Outdoor wear
You will want to invest in a few essential layers. From moisture-wicking undershirts to wax gilet men’s and women’s to help you stay warm without wearing a lot of bulk on your person. For the best results, choose breathable fabrics, ideally like wool or linen, underneath your thicker layers. You will likely sweat on your walk, either due to the exertion or the temperature, and the last thing you want is to be wet on a cold day.
Hiking backpack
There are a few things you will always want to bring with you on a long walk and to carry it all; you will need a good backpack. One that rests comfortably on your back and doesn’t cause your shoulders to stoop or puts too much pressure on only one area of your spine are what you will want to look for.
A hat
A sun hat or similar is a must to wear, especially as the seasons warm and the sunshine becomes more frequent. It will help you stay cooler and safer on long walks.
Reusable water bottle
Bring one or two reusable water bottles with you on your walk. Staying hydrated is very important when you are away from a road, as heatstroke can occur during winter just as much as in summer. It is dehydration, after all, that is the source of a heatstroke.
Road snacks
Keep up your energy by stocking up on some protein snacks like nuts, dried fruit, protein bars, and the like. They are delicious, healthy ways to snack while on a long hike and, most importantly, can easily be enjoyed on the go with no mess. Just remember to bring the wrappers back home with you or to wait until there is a proper bin to dispose of them properly. Don’t just throw them to the side as this can disrupt and endanger wildlife.
