Summer hiking essentials: Learn how to gear up properly.
In the scorching summer heat, long-distance hiking is not ideal. Medium or short hikes not only help you stay fit but also allow you to enjoy unique scenery. Proper hiking gear is essential—so how should you prepare for summer travel? Today, we’ll guide you through it step by step.
1. Backpack
When we say “backpack,” we don’t mean a regular school bag or travel tote—we’re talking about a proper hiking backpack. The size of your backpack should be chosen based on the length of your trip. For short excursions near the city, a 30L pack is sufficient, but for longer journeys, opt for something larger. It’s worth noting that bigger isn’t always better—excess space can actually reduce comfort during long treks.
Once you’ve decided on the capacity, how do you choose the material? In Nanchong’s market, hiking backpacks are typically made from nylon, Oxford cloth, or canvas. Each material offers different features: Nylon is lightweight, durable, elastic, and often comes in bright colors with waterproof coatings, making it a favorite among hikers. Oxford cloth backpacks are known for their sturdiness and wear resistance, with more subdued colors preferred by those who appreciate a classic look. Canvas backpacks, while somewhat outdated, still have fans thanks to their classic shape and affordable price.
Compared to regular backpacks, hiking packs have another major advantage: their ergonomic design helps distribute weight more efficiently, making your hike less tiring. Additionally, it’s best to choose a brightly colored backpack—not for fashion, but for safety. Bright colors can be a lifesaver if you get lost in the mountains or wilderness, making you easier to spot.
2. Footwear
Now that we’ve covered backpacks, let’s talk about footwear—an indispensable part of any hike. Long walks can strain your ankles, so the right shoes can make or break your journey. Here are some tips for choosing the best hiking shoes.
Hiking boots can feel hot and stuffy in summer, especially for those who tend to sweat. So, breathability is just as important as grip when selecting summer hiking shoes.
First up: outdoor sandals. Not to be confused with regular flip-flops, outdoor sandals usually have thicker soles—some even feature VIBRAM soles for durability and slip resistance. They’re also designed for comfort and water resistance.
Another great option is water shoes (or creek shoes). These low-cut shoes offer good grip and breathability, but they provide less ankle support, making them less suitable for long treks or rough terrain.
For serious hikers, mid- or high-cut hiking boots are still the go-to choice. In summer, prioritize breathable materials like mesh or fabric uppers, which offer better ventilation than full leather boots.
3. Sunglasses
The type of sunglasses you need depends on your hiking route. For mountain hikes, UV exposure increases with altitude, so eye protection is crucial. Generally, hiking sunglasses should have a light transmission level of 3 or higher; for high-altitude hikes, aim for level 4. Look for scratch-resistant lenses, anti-glare coatings, and side shields to reduce sun penetration. However, avoid wearing these in normal conditions, as they can make it too dark and strain your eyes.
For day hikes, choose lightweight, comfortable sunglasses with accurate color reproduction to reduce eye fatigue. The frames should be ultra-light and fit well, with rubber nose pads for extra comfort.
For casual summer walks, trendy yet functional sunglasses are a popular choice. These usually offer 100% UV protection with a lens rating of 2–3, suitable for all daytime activities. Look for stylish frames and slightly wider lenses for a natural fit. For those who wear prescription glasses, consider custom-tinted prescription sunglasses.
4. Sun Protection
Apply sunscreen 30 minutes to 1 hour before going out and reapply regularly while outdoors. Even after the “safe” sun exposure window, you can still get burned or tanned. When choosing sunscreen, don’t assume higher SPF means better protection. Experts explain that sunscreen primarily prevents sunburn, with limited effectiveness against tanning. No sunscreen can guarantee zero tanning.
“The SPF (Sun Protection Factor) indicates the level of UVB protection. Higher SPF offers more protection, but the increase doesn’t scale linearly, and high SPF can irritate the skin,” an expert notes. Avoid overly high SPF values—SPF 30 with PA+++ is generally sufficient. For general outdoor activities, SPF 20 with PA++ is recommended, while for intense sun (like at high altitudes or beaches), opt for SPF 30 with PA+++.
In addition to sunscreen, protective clothing like sun shirts and wide-brimmed hats are essential for outdoor sun safety.
5. First Aid Supplies
Always carry basic medical supplies for hiking. In hot summer weather, strenuous activity can lead to dehydration or heatstroke. Pack essentials like menthol oil, Huoxiang Zhengqi Water (a traditional Chinese remedy for heatstroke), and bruise ointment. If you feel dizzy, apply menthol oil to your temples and below your nose, or take Huoxiang Zhengqi Water, then rest. For severe symptoms, stop hiking and seek medical help immediately.
Summer is also peak thunderstorm season. If you encounter lightning, remove metal objects, wear a raincoat to stay dry, avoid using your phone, and seek shelter in caves or low-lying areas to stay safe.