Beginner's Guide to Hiking Gear: Backpacks, Trekking Poles, and More

In episode eight, I cover hiking essentials and basics, starting with backpacks: choosing capacity by season and mileage, fit and support, hip belts, hydration systems, rain covers, and how I pack the 10 essentials, food, layers, and water. I also share leave-no-trace bathroom items (trowel kit, trash bag, and a Kula cloth), trekking poles for elevation and knee support, satellite/GPS safety devices, water filters and treatment options, guidebooks and maps, bug and poison oak/ivy protection, bear spray considerations, and snow gear like snowshoes, baskets, microspikes, and gaiters, with a warning not to confuse hiking gear with mountaineering needs.   Links:  REI for all your hiking gear needs: https://rei.pxf.io/6yKVeN 52 Hike Challenge Nepal Annapurna Circuit Trip: https://www.52hikechallenge.com/pages/annapurnacircuittrek Kula Cloth: https://www.52hikechallenge.com/products/52-hike-challenge-kula-cloth-colorful-outdoors