What to Pack: 7 Tips for Summer Hiking and Camping

Camping and hiking have a range of health benefits, including improved muscle tone from low-impact walking and stress relief from being out in nature. Spending time outdoors helps boost serotonin levels naturally, which can help improve your mood.

If you’re planning a camping or hiking trip this summer, here’s what to pack for a fun, relaxing and safe adventure. Bring only the essentials, so you’re not weighted down with unnecessary gear.

1. Plan out your meals in advance, including ingredients, cooking implements and materials to make a fire.
2. Ready-to-eat snacks provide good, sustained energy on the go. Look for high protein munchies like peanut butter, nuts and beef or turkey jerky.
3. If your campsite doesn’t have a source of fresh water, purchase some water purification tablets, or bring a pot to boil water that you collect. When you’re doing high-intensity activity, try to drink at least 16 ounces of water per hour. 
4. Make sure you have a strong flashlight with fresh batteries. If you have room in your bag, toss in a set of extra batteries. 
5. Pack the obvious bathroom essentials like soap, toothpaste and toilet paper. Then consider adding baby wipes and hand sanitizer for fast cleanup. 
6. Protect yourself from the elements with sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellant, a hat and a lightweight rain poncho. 
7. A well-stocked first aid kit can help you stay safe. Include blister cream and bandages, as well as any personal medications that you take. Add a pair of tweezers if you’ll be in an area with ticks.