| Here are some suggestions for your walking - | | | | When it comes to clothing - be prepared for |
| hiking vacation equipment. This is not intended as | | | | anything. |
| a complete list, just a guide to get you thinking. | | | | The key is layers so that you can adjust easily to |
| The most important item to bring is a quality | | | | changes in weather and temperature. For the |
| comfortable daypack or backpack to carry your | | | | inner layer, avoid cotton as it absorbs moisture |
| goodies in. There are few things to keep in mind | | | | thereby keeping it close to your body. Best are |
| when choosing the right pack. Wider shoulder | | | | man-made "poly" type fibers. These will wick |
| straps are more comfortable than narrow ones. | | | | moisture away from the body. |
| Look for extra padding. These two things can | | | | This includes your socks. A thin inner poly layer |
| save you a good deal of discomfort. | | | | can be covered with a thicker layer of another |
| You can also look for packs that have an | | | | material for cushioning. The outermost layer |
| attached belt that goes around the waist. This can | | | | should be wind resistant and don't forget a |
| help tremendously to support the weight of the | | | | raincoat. If you are properly prepared walk in the |
| pack. Make sure you get a pack that is big | | | | rain can be a wonderful experience. |
| enough to carry the items you have chosen to | | | | Make one of your optional layers a heavy wool |
| bring. This will vary from person to person so try | | | | sweater along with warm wool hat. These can be |
| to plan ahead before you purchase your day | | | | extremely useful when "sunny and cool" suddenly |
| back pack. | | | | turns to "cloudy, damp, and cold". You can never |
| Look for a pack with quality material that will hold | | | | count on fair weather. Plan for the worst. But |
| the shape. Multiple compartments can be useful | | | | don't let a little bad weather discourage you. Think |
| for finding things quickly. If on a guided tour, keep | | | | of it as "atmosphere". A little wind and rain will |
| in mind that the company will probably be moving | | | | make the next pub stop that much cozier. |
| the big baggage for you. | | | | Invest in a good pair walking, running or hiking |
| Water is not an optional item. You should carry | | | | shoes that do not bind either at the toes or on |
| enough water to last for the whole duration of | | | | the sides. Be sure to break them in before using |
| your walk. Unfortunately water is fairly heavy and | | | | them on the extended distances. A hat, |
| bulky. This is another reason to get a quality | | | | preferably with a wide brim, will help keep you |
| comfortable pack that has room enough to hold | | | | cool and protect you from the sun. A bandanna is |
| your water bottles. | | | | good head protection and is an all around useful |
| The Food that you bring will depend on your | | | | item to have. |
| individual tastes and the nature of the walk you | | | | Sunglasses with polarized lenses are essential eye |
| are planning. High energy snack foods are popular | | | | protection. |
| because they are light and carry well in the pack. | | | | For skin protection you will need +30PF or higher |
| Others are salty foods, trail mix, hard candy and | | | | sunscreen. |
| electrolyte powder or drink. | | | | |