Planning outdoor trips is indeed thrilling. Even if it’s for a few days, it makes one excited.

However, one major element that many people tend to forget is realizing the importance of being safe. No matter what the location of your trip may be, you need to make your safety a priority!

While preparing your backpack, you need to make sure to stuff it with everything you may need in case of any danger. Your safety comes first, and while being outdoors for many days, you have to take some special measures to ensure your well-being.

Keep reading this article, and you will know how to prepare and stay safe outdoors on your trip.

Keep Your Rain Gear Handy

Now, this might sound obvious but weather conditions can change anytime, and you have to be well-prepared for any situation. You should especially have everything that would save you on a rainy day, literally.

First things first, if you are planning a trip to somewhere that’s prone to rainfalls, make sure to avoid wearing cotton clothes. They get wet too fast and take the longest to dry. If this is your first time backpacking, buy some good quality rain gear, and it will stay with you for years!

A raincoat would be a great option to have. However, as you would be hiking, opt for a lightweight coat to make things easier for you.

Waterproof pants are easily available everywhere. Have a pair of these and never feel intimidated by the rain. Along with this, have a trekking umbrella. It can fold back and adjust in your backpack within a very limited space.

As far as boots, you can either go for hiking boots or rain-guard boots. If you are planning a trip to someplace that doesn’t feature difficult or steep mountains, the latter option would be the right one.

Have An Updated Map

If you are planning a trip to a completely unknown place that you haven’t visited before, you need to keep an updated map with you. It will save you from a lot of trouble and confusion. Though it’s true that the GPS in your phone and google maps have made lives pretty easy, you still can’t rely on them completely.

What if you lose signal and are not able to use these applications? What if your phone’s battery dies and it stops working altogether? A map comes in handy to manage such an awkward situation. You can keep it in your backpack, and it will keep you confident at all times.

Add A Whistle To Your Bag

It may seem funny, but having a whistle in your bag comes with a lot of safety and security!

While trekking or hiking, there are times that people get lost. Even if there is a group, a person may stop midway to appreciate nature and end up losing contact with others. It leads to a lot of chaos and confusion.

A lost person can blow the whistle, and it would signify to others his whereabouts. However, this should be planned earlier. Three whistles would mean that someone is lost and looking to be rescued.

Keep Some Extra Food

Outdoor trips are tough on the body. They require a lot of walking and strolling, leading to one feeling famished.

This is why it is advisable to keep some extra food handy. If you are going for a two-day trip, don’t just take with you just the amount of food that’s sufficient for two days. Rather, have some extra snacks packed in your backpack. This way, if you decide to stay longer or anything happens, you’ll have enough food to keep you going a while longer.

Have An Emergency Firestarter

What if it’s super cold and your matchsticks are not working due to the humidity in the air? How would you start the fire to cook or have some warmth?

Having an emergency fire starter is absolutely necessary. A lightweight fire starter is a compact item and can stay in your backpack for long durations without taking up much space. Buy the one that comes with a wooden handle. It is the safest option available to you!

Add A First Aid Box To Your Bag

A first aid box will save you in a lot of unforeseen situations. For instance, if you get a cut on the body and can’t find a hospital nearby, this box will come in handy.

Keep all the necessary items like a painkiller, bandages, gloves, medical tape, and other things in your first aid box. If possible, watch a few Youtube videos about how to deal with a medical emergency while using your first aid box on a trip.

Remember: Planning Is The Key!

Planning ahead of the trip is something you should do to stay safe in all situations. Be realistic about the weather and environmental situations while planning your safety options. Your backpack should have everything necessary for your survival.