Thanks for the recommendation! A collapsible UV umbrella sounds like a great addition for those sunny hikes, especially on long trails like the Camino de Santiago.
Total body sun protection is important. It's your radiation shield. As we age our high and low temperature range narrows. Our bodies can no longer shed heat the way they once did or generate enough heat on a cold day. If the Heat index is 95F to 100F don't venture out on the trail. With a temperature of 95F with very low humidity will probably not be a problem, BUT 95F with 65 to 85% humidity your body is no longer of cooling itself. Carry two pints of cold water for every two hours and a good idea for someone in the group to carry a liter of small ice cubes and a zip lock bag. Find shade and put the ice on the forehead and wrists.
Here's the list of gear you need for hiking: 0. Yes, you don't need gear for every hike. For 6 hours - here's what you need: Phone, 1.5l water. Microfiber towel + appropriate clothing. + 2 bic lighters+ small pocket knife + salty snacks (nuts) For less than 6 hours - depending on the temperature, you can drop the water to 1l - 3 hours or less is usually easy without water. More importantly, you need good maps, information, backup plans should you just feel off and a buddy on call for a lift - preferably keeping track of you somehow - just call in. Check cell coverage in advance if you can, spare battery charge is a must. Information, information, information. Preparation is the key to success. In mild temperatures, 16-20C, low wind, normal cloud cover - the clothes on your back and some shorts could be fine. If it's wet, windy, 28C or more - you're going to need to adjust things with sunglasses, hats, plastic ponchos and maybe dry clothes changes. I'd argue against poles, backpacks and gear because carrying stuff is what usually holds you back. Just carrying a 2lbs DSLR messes with balance, ties up hands and makes the trail less safe. A secured backpack may be better but it chokes your back breathability. I like quick drying fabrics in the heat - in the cold, windproofing reduces water evaporation most but a fleece and waterproof won't keep your legs dry. Hike at temps that you'll enjoy being wet at - or check the weather forecast. For seniors - don't go where you may need a first aid kit. If you think you may need one, pack a buddy first. Trail shoes are far better than boots (and lighter) for anything that doesn't need waterproofing. You even get them with rock plates in the soles which are great on rocks. They also keep your laces safer (those metal hooks on boots are killers) - but tuck them away anyway. Gaiters are great for grass seeds - boots collect seeds, trail shoes don't. Two pairs of socks kill blisters. 3 hours is plenty of a hike for most people. If you're attempting over 10km or over 4 hours - you should really know what you are doing, where you are going and what the weather is doing. I have a couple or 2 hours hikes which are a great challenge at 9km with boulders, scrambling and dirt paths. The challenge can always be increased by going a little faster and the pleasure is always increased by taking less stuff. On these hikes - I carry my phone.
Need a list of the gear you need for hiking! Its here!
Fantastic list and beautifully elaborated my friend! Waterproof breathable layer is a must indeed!
Thank you kindly!
A small collapsible UV umbrella is highly recommended for sunny treks. Really helpful during the Camino deSantiago trek.
Thanks for the recommendation! A collapsible UV umbrella sounds like a great addition for those sunny hikes, especially on long trails like the Camino de Santiago.
Total body sun protection is important. It's your radiation shield. As we age our high and low temperature range narrows. Our bodies can no longer shed heat the way they once did or generate enough heat on a cold day. If the Heat index is 95F to 100F don't venture out on the trail. With a temperature of 95F with very low humidity will probably not be a problem, BUT 95F with 65 to 85% humidity your body is no longer of cooling itself. Carry two pints of cold water for every two hours and a good idea for someone in the group to carry a liter of small ice cubes and a zip lock bag. Find shade and put the ice on the forehead and wrists.
Great information, great tip especially about the ice cubes! Thanks for sharing!
Here's the list of gear you need for hiking:
0.
Yes, you don't need gear for every hike.
For 6 hours - here's what you need:
Phone, 1.5l water. Microfiber towel + appropriate clothing. + 2 bic lighters+ small pocket knife + salty snacks (nuts)
For less than 6 hours - depending on the temperature, you can drop the water to 1l - 3 hours or less is usually easy without water.
More importantly, you need good maps, information, backup plans should you just feel off and a buddy on call for a lift - preferably keeping track of you somehow - just call in. Check cell coverage in advance if you can, spare battery charge is a must. Information, information, information. Preparation is the key to success.
In mild temperatures, 16-20C, low wind, normal cloud cover - the clothes on your back and some shorts could be fine.
If it's wet, windy, 28C or more - you're going to need to adjust things with sunglasses, hats, plastic ponchos and maybe dry clothes changes.
I'd argue against poles, backpacks and gear because carrying stuff is what usually holds you back. Just carrying a 2lbs DSLR messes with balance, ties up hands and makes the trail less safe. A secured backpack may be better but it chokes your back breathability.
I like quick drying fabrics in the heat - in the cold, windproofing reduces water evaporation most but a fleece and waterproof won't keep your legs dry. Hike at temps that you'll enjoy being wet at - or check the weather forecast.
For seniors - don't go where you may need a first aid kit. If you think you may need one, pack a buddy first.
Trail shoes are far better than boots (and lighter) for anything that doesn't need waterproofing. You even get them with rock plates in the soles which are great on rocks. They also keep your laces safer (those metal hooks on boots are killers) - but tuck them away anyway.
Gaiters are great for grass seeds - boots collect seeds, trail shoes don't.
Two pairs of socks kill blisters.
3 hours is plenty of a hike for most people. If you're attempting over 10km or over 4 hours - you should really know what you are doing, where you are going and what the weather is doing.
I have a couple or 2 hours hikes which are a great challenge at 9km with boulders, scrambling and dirt paths. The challenge can always be increased by going a little faster and the pleasure is always increased by taking less stuff. On these hikes - I carry my phone.
Thanks for sharing.
Your video was truly beautiful and inspiring. As a fellow creator, I appreciate the effort you put into it. Sub and 👍25
Thank you for the kind words. I am glad you enjoyed it.
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