essentials

Hiking Tips and Tricks

Outdoors / By

With all the stress and busyness of our lives, we just want to take a break and unwind. One of the good ways to do it is to have a hike. This is an activity that you can do with your friends and family or just by yourself. There will be planning involved though even it’s just a short one. The reason for this is safety and also to have a smooth adventure. You need to know what to expect. What are those preparations that needed to be done?

Know the right trail and get familiarized

Are you a beginner or an expert? No matter what it is, it is important to know the right trail for you. There are short and easy trails that are perfect for beginners. If you are also looking for a time alone and relax, this may be the trail for you to go for it is less dangerous. Maybe you are an expert and would want to go to a more challenging trail. No matter what will you choose, always be familiarized with it. You should know to expect and what things like what kind of animals or plantsit has around and what kind of terrain it has. You should also have an expectation for what’s to come, so you can prepare what you may need on your trip. 

Know the weather

Another important thing to prepare for is the weather. What season will you take your hike? Will it be during winter with the snow or spring and summer where there are rainfalls? Keep in mind the heat you’ll experience too. The reason for this is because it will affect how you will dress and what to pack. It will also affect the trails you will choose to go to. Also, if the weather is not good and dangerous, you might need to cancel your plans.

Know the essential items

Hiking is not just about dressing up and walking on the trails. There are things you will need to bring during the hike for your safety. Make sure your stuff is clean and ready. The essentials include:

  1. Navigation (map and compass but with technology, your smartphone might have a map, compass, and GPS)
  2. Sun Protection (sunscreen and sunglasses)
  3. Extra Clothing
  4. Flashlight
  5. First Aid Kit
  6. Materials for fire
  7. Food
  8. Water
  9. Emergency Shelter

Know the right clothing

Knowing the right clothing is important for comfort and protection. Light clothing will be a requirement, especially on a hot day. There are all-weather jackets available in case the day is colder and windy. Rain essentials are necessary to be brought because weather is unpredictable at times and you need to be ready at all times. The material of the clothing is also important. Cotton should be avoided because it stays damp. Instead, choose ones that are made of wool or synthetic. Choosing the right hiking boots is also a must. You should have the right type to protect your feet and they should be comfortable for you to wear even in challenging and muddy trails. Choose also a pair that will not cause blisters.

Know about emergency essentials

We will never know what might happen during hiking, so it is important to have emergency shelters and first aid kits in case of accidents. Tell a friend or family where you will be going, so in case of emergency, they will be able to contact professionals and know where to find you. It is also handy to have emergency contacts on hand such as your medical assistance when something serious happens.

What To Bring On A Day Hike

Outdoors / By

On busy and stressful days, sometimes you just want to have a small break. Once an opportunity comes, grab it. There are many things to do though. But why don’t you clean your boots and prepare for a hike? A hike is a great activity for a big or small group. You can also do it by yourself if you want to. You could go on a long trip or just nearby. If you are short on time, you can do it in one day. It is a great activity for you even if you are a busy person. It’s one of the great ways for you to unwind.

In preparation, what are the needs for hiking?

1. Hiking Backpack

Of course, you would need something to put your essentials in. Look for the one that is the perfect size, not too big or not too small. It is also important that is not heavy and fits your body really well. Remember that it will be used while climbing and various things will be put in it.

2. Food

Hiking is a very physical activity and would require lots of energy. In order for you to have plenty, you will need food. Of course, you would need something that is not bulky, but rather something that is easy to carry. There are a variety of foods like this to choose from but the most well-known would be granola bars and trail mixes. Not only they are easy-to-carry snacks, but they are also healthy. They are packed with nutrients that will give you energy and strength for your hiking. If you are looking for something to eat that is light to carry but heavier for your stomach, a sandwich is good to go.

3. Water and Other Drinks

One of the most important things for us to pay attention to is staying hydrated. When you are doing a physical activity like hiking, you will definitely sweat a lot and water decreases in your body. Water is important for regulating our body temperature and helps our joints and muscles to work better. That is why it essential to have water on hand especially on a long hike. You can also have other beverages that will help with hydration such as energy drinks and juice.

4. Navigation Tools

When hiking, you will need to always pay attention to your surroundings and know where you are going. Having navigations tools is helpful for they will guide not only to your desired destination but also in getting back. Basic navigation tools include a map and compass. With today’s technology though, it is much easier and you will not need to have extra bulk, which is helpful especially for a fast hike. Smartphones have maps, GPS, and even compass on them, so it will be easier and lighter to carry and also easier to use.

5. First Aid Kit

You never know what will happen during a hike, so it is always best to be prepared. Accidents happen whether big or small. You or someone might get their knees or arms scrapes and will need some quick cleaning and care. You might also need essentials for your health like an Epi-pen for allergies. You do not have to get crazy over it. You will just need some basics like bandages, cleaning material, and some over-the-counter medicine that might come in handy. If anything gets serious though, be sure to call for medical assistance.

Tips for Traveling Abroad for the First Time

Traveling / By

Being on vacation is exciting. What more exciting is having a trip. What is even more exciting is having a trip abroad especially if it is your first time. There is something about being in a new place with a different atmosphere and even a different culture. It will be really refreshing and relaxing and kind of overwhelming at times even. But it is definitely a great time to take a break and consume the sights that you will see and make new memories.

Like any other trip, it will involve planning and there will surely be a lot. If this will be your first time, here are some important essentials you need to know:

1. Know the necessary documents needed

First thing will definitely be your passport and visa. You should know about the limitation and expiry dates of them when you plan. They might need to be renewed before you plan or you leave and to know your schedule. Another are the files needed for confirmation with your flight and lodging. You can have them printed for you to have a physical copy to carry around when you are traveling and also as evidence in case problems arise. This also includes contacting your credit card company and bank to inform them that you are leaving the country. This will avoid suspicions of fraud and so that you can use them even if you are at another country. Another thing to prepare is your budget. Be sure to know about it and set it up even its limitations to be sure.

2. Know what to pack up

You may get too excited upon leaving for abroad for the first time that you may want to bring a lot of things and clothes. But always remember that you might need or even use all of them during your trip for there will be other things you will do or get excited about. Add to that, your luggage might be added with a lot of memorabilia and souvenirs that will be added. So that is why it is important to pack light and just bring necessary items including enough clothes (with some extras). A great way to know about them is to have a list beforehand. Be sure to have extra clothes in your hand luggage in case something happens like a canceled flight.

3. Know about their culture

When you are going abroad, it will be definitely different from what you are used to. Not only the sights but also the way of living people does. So it is important to know what their culture beforehand. There might be things or gestures that you should avoid because they may get offended or consider it rude. It is also handy to know about their language even just the basics. There are times that you will need to know your way around and it will be hard if people do not speak English. Also, by knowing their culture, the shock will be avoided and you will know that it is how it works for their country. To know about this, you can buy guide books and dictionaries or simply do quick research on the internet.

Things To Do Before Leaving for Vacation

Traveling / By

Going on vacation is very much anticipated by everyone. It is a great time for you to take a break from work and other stress that is happening. It will be a nice way for you to clear your mind and relax. If you are going with someone whether It with your friends or family, it will be a great way for you to bond with them.

But it is also important for you to plan your travel. There are many essentials needed. Before you leave for a vacation, you might need to do this.

1. Prepare the documents needed

Whether you are traveling abroad or not, there will be a lot of documents involve with your trip. When you are traveling abroad, of course, you would need your passport, visa, and plane tickets. Be sure to have confirmations about your flight and lodging. But even if you are just traveling locally, you will still need confirmations about your board and lodging and transportations such as train, bus, and plane. Another thing to confirm are places of entertainment that needed reservation such as stage plays. Documents also include ones at your home that needed to be settled before leaving such as bills. Be sure to update your travel documents and travel insurance too. If you are leaving the country, be sure to inform your credit card company or bank to avoid fraud and so you can also use it if it is applicable. Also, another important thing is that you know and set up your budget that will be needed for your vacation.

2. Prepare a list of emergency numbers

Being on vacation is unpredictable. In case something happens, you should have a list to contact like close friends and relatives. Keep track of other emergency numbers too such as hospitals and conduct research about the local numbers too.

3. Inform a trusted family or friend

When you are leaving, be sure to have a trusted person to know where are you going and how long. They could be the ones you can contact in case of emergency. They are also ones you will entrust with your home especially if you have pets that needed to be fed. 

4. Pack up 

Be sure to pack up the essentials. It will definitely depend on the place where you are going. But no matter where you go, do not overdo it and pack light. Like the clothes for example, just pack enough including the extras. Be sure to have one in your hand luggage too in case of an emergency like canceled flights. To know which one should be packed, it will be handy to have a list needed for your trip.

5. Check the weather

Know if the weather is applicable for you to leave. In case a plane trip is required, you might want to know about the flight being canceled that needed to be rescheduled or even refunded. This is also applicable when you are going home.

6. Secure home

Being on vacation means leaving home for a while, so make sure to check if it will be secured enough. Have a trusted family or friend, maybe a neighbor, to watch out for your home. Be sure that no unnecessary electronics are plugged especially those that might cause to start a fire. Also, be sure to have your trash empty and check your refrigerator if something needed to be disposed of. This will save you from food that might get rotten and the smell it will emit.

Must-Have​ Travel Items

Traveling / By

With our lives being busy, it is good to have a break at times. Traveling exposes us to a new environment, so it is a nice way to clear our mind. Whether you are traveling abroad or locally, by land or by air, it is nice to be somewhere different. You may have gone to that place before or perhaps it is somewhere new to you but being in a different place takes you away from the busyness of your life.

Traveling will involve a lot of planning though. There are essentials that you need have. What are they?

1. Clothing

Clothing will depend on where you will go. If it is in a cooler place or even cold enough for snow, you might need to bring thicker clothes and accessories for it like a scarf, gloves, and cap. If you plan to go to a warmer place, you may need less. But no matter where you will go, it is important to pack light. Bring clothes, a few extras included, but just enough for your trip. Many times you get so excited when packing and in the end, you aren’t really able to wear them all. Also, since the weather is unpredictable at times, bring clothes that are essential when the rain comes.

2. Toiletries

Sometimes you would ask if it is even necessary to bring toiletries especially if there will be complimentary items in the hotel you will stay in or perhaps you just plan to buy in nearby stores you will go to. Toiletries are more than just the shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush, toothpaste, soaps, and even towels. You can skip bringing those if you want to but sometimes they will be handy if you need extras. Apart from those, there are some items that are not given in hotels like sunscreens which are a necessity on a hot day or if you are planning to go for a swim.

3. Medicine

Sometimes, you just cannot predict what will happen. You might get a headache from walking all day or eat food that is bad. You or some of your companions might not be good with vehicles and get sick on the trip. That is why it important to have medicines around in case of emergency. This also includes vitamins and maintenance medication. Keep in mind if you or your companions are prone to allergy or asthmatic. You will need an Epipen or inhaler on hand.

4. Documents

You will need to check to make sure you have your documents because they are the most important thing for getting to your destination. Without them, you might not get to travel at all. When you are traveling by plane, train, ship, or bus, you will definitely need your ticket, so be sure to have them in a safe place. If you are going to travel to another country, your passport and visa (if needed) should be secured. Other essential documents including your ID and money (both cash and credit cards). You will also need information on where you are staying to assure confirmations and avoid problems like canceling without your permission. If you have one, medical prescriptions are also needed in case of emergency.

How To Make Your Life Simpler

Lifestyle / By

A quote of Confucius said, “Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated.” There are many things in this world that are already complicated but our lives do not need to be. The beauty of it will help us not only financially and mentally but also to other aspects such as our emotions and physical health. It is not hard and you could try it every time you want.

1. Track your expenses

No matter what, we will always have something to spend our money with. But what we could do is to know if it is really necessary. Water and electricity bills are surely one of those and so is food. But if you start to track what you are spending on, you will find out if some of them are necessities or just for your own luxury. It is not bad to have something that is of luxury like gadgets or going on vacations as long as it makes you happy and not stressful about the expense surrounding it. Tracking will also help you see if your purchases those you really need or just have it on impulse because of want. This will make you think about your future expenses if you would really need it or not.

2. Track your time

There is this saying that “time is gold,” and it is indeed for life is also short. So we have to spend our time wisely. By tracking your time, you would know if you spend either too much time with your work or the opposite, slacking off. It is important to have it balanced. Once you know about it, why not have a schedule and have plans that will not be a waste of time. It will be surely helpful for your growth as a person.

3. Declutter your home

It is said that decluttering your home would also lead to decluttering your life, and that is why it became a trend. Clutter indeed adds stress to our lives, so why not look upon your supplies and utensils and see what you always use and what you think is needed. Sometimes, we tend to purchase something on impulse or have old things lying around that can still be used but not needed anymore. You can either dispose of them, donate them, or even sell them and that way, what you will have are just the essentials. If you still have more stuff but you think they are necessary, have them stored instead of having them lying around. This way, not only your home will look clean, but it may also lengthen its life.

4. Find joy in simple things

With technology today, we can easily find entertainment. You can watch movies or listen to music as long as you have an internet connection and gadgets. But oftentimes, that’s just it, having us entertained but did not bring us joy. Why not spend some time discovering your real joy. Go write or read. Spend time with your friends and family. Have a hobby like sports or DIY. The beauty of it is that you do not really need to spend a ton for them and find yourself realizing that you could enjoy life without being complex.

Packing List for a Beach Vacation

Traveling / By

Going on vacation is the best thing to do if your kids are on a break. If you do not have one, it does not matter for you yourself will need breaks from time to time. Going on a beach is a vacation that is more enjoyable when you have company. You will be able to bond with them and can do various activities together.

Of course, like any other vacation or travel, you would need to plan ahead. First thing you should need to know are the essentials when you are going to trip on a beach. What are they?

1. Bag

The first thing you would need are the right bags. There are many beach bags available according to your needs. You will need one big enough to accommodate your needs such as towel, clothes, and toiletries. As for food, it would be wise to have them in a separate bag to avoid spillage on clothes and smell. It would also be handy to have cooler bags for beverages and ice.

2. Clothes

You do not have to bring many especially if you will always spend your time doing beach activities. You will surely need an outfit for those though. If you are planning to stay overnight or are on a beach far away from home, be sure to pack enough and is appropriate for your trip.

3. Towels

Towels are not used only to dry after a swim but also for laying down in the sand in for rest or for sunbathing. Be sure to have enough because sometimes, one or two might not be enough especially if they are small in size.

4. Toiletries

Toiletries include sunblock for protection from the sun. That is definitely a must. Another is lip balm because our lips will tend to dry not only from the heat but also from the water. If you are planning to shower at the beach rooms, soap and shampoo would be handy to get rid of some dirt and saltiness from the water.

5. Food

Going to the beach most often involve lunchtime, so be sure to pack enough and put it in a safe container. Drinks especially, water is a must to stay dehydrated from the heat and activities. And because of various activities will likely be done, it is important to have some snacks to stay energized. There are beaches that provide shelter to stay in for sleeping. It will be possible for you or your other companions to cook meals if that is the case. Just know if there are markets or grocery stores nearby for the ingredients.

6. Entertainment items

Being at the beach does not only involve swimming. There are a lot of possibilities for kids and adults alike. You can bring sports equipments such a ball or frisbee for a game. You can also bring a book if you just want to have quiet time to yourself. Portable speakers are also handy to add some noise (not too disturbing though). 

Fun Things To Bring Camping

Outdoors / By

Camping is one of those activities that needs a bit of planning ahead. From the outdoor gear to the food. But it is necessary for your camping trip to be successful and keep in mind the purpose of it. That is, to enjoy and relax and spend some quality time with your friends or family. This will be a great way for you to connect not only with nature but also with them. 

Here are some ideas you could bring to have fun on your camping trip:

1. Something to create

You could bring something that will have your hands working. This will be especially enjoyed with the kids but adults can also enjoy this quite a bit. It could be set of clays for molding. With a fire, you will be able to make them hard. You can also bring some paints. Watercolors and tube paint are light and easy to carry for a camp. And since you will be in nature, you could also do some experiments. Bring some things and explore the different kinds of plants around. Just be sure that they are not poisonous and that you’re not violating the campsite rules.

2. Something entertaining

The point of camping is to have fun and bond with your companions, so why not bring something to add with your activities? The easiest would be a deck of cards. There are many ways to play with them be it for adult or children. It could be also a different type like the Uno cards. If it is not too bulky, you can also bring some board games. Even though the point of camping is to connect with nature, having gadgets is okay especially if it has a purpose in your activities like those that involve music. You could just set up rules involving gadgets if you want. And speaking of music, you can bring a guitar or any other instrument like a harmonica so you can play and sing songs. You could also bring a book if you want to have some time with yourself. At times, it will help gather your thoughts or maybe keep you entertained if you are the one who is preparing meals.

3. Something useful

When it comes to being useful, food is what comes first to mind. It is essential for us and it is also a way for you to bond with your companions. Aside from the main meal, you can also have different kinds of snacks to munch on. You can also bring some for a campfire like ingredients for s’mores or some hotdogs to grill. This way, you can do this while sharing stories or playing some game. And speaking of useful, you should keep in mind what will you will need to use. When setting up a campfire for example, you might need a lighter. You might also need a source of light like flashlights because campsites do not provide them at times and might be needed at night especially for navigating. Lights can also be used in a game, so it will be dual purpose. Just make sure the batteries are full and have some extras if needed. And aside from tents, why not also bring a hammock for extra space to sleep or space for relaxing?

How to Go Camping

Outdoors / By

Winter is over. Snow is melting away. This will be the great time to catch up with your friends or spend some time with your family and have some activities for this spring. One of those activities is camping. Camping is great way for bonding. It is also a great way for you to connect with nature. But there are a lot of things you need to do before and during camping. Here are they:

Preparation 

1. Find and know your campsite

First things first. You will need to know about your campsite, and there are a lot of them nowadays. It could be near or require a longer drive. You should know how the place would like, so preparing other things will be easier. It will not hurt to have some expectations about the place too and also to know the rules. Be aware also if animals like a bear lurk around your campsite. You may want to avoid those places.

2. Prepare your gear and essentials

Camping will require a lot of things. First will be the tent where you will stay and sleep. You need one that is comfortable and roomy for enough the people and the kind of bed you will use. Keep in mind how you will prepare your meal because you might need to bring small stoves. Other essentials such as clothes and toiletries are also important for how you will pack. Know which items are important and which are not because keeping it light and simple is a must. Having a source of light like a flashlight is also important because the site may not provide them and there will be a tendency to get dark at night.

3. Plan your meal

Food is essential to this activity but it will come down to limited resources. It is important to plan ahead to know which ingredients to bring and how to prepare them. Another thing to keep in mind is for how many days you will stay at the camp and how much you will need.

At the campsite

1. Set up your tent

The first thing you would need to do when you arrive is setting up and organizing the tent. After setting it up, it is important to know how the arrangement will be. Always clean your tent also and maintain it that way because it is where you will stay and sleep.

2. Set up your meal

There are campsites that offer a place to cook but more often, you will need to bring your own. Be sure to know about the conditions because it will affect how you will set up your stove. Be sure to collect your wastes also and secure them in a bag.

3. Make arrangements with routine

Campsites offer shower rooms and comfort rooms so you should be sure how it is operated. It is also important to make arrangements with your companions on who will go first and so forth. Take note that there might be other campers too so be mindful of it and also take it into consideration.

4. Activities

Camping would not be complete without activities. It will be a nice chance to relax and spend some quality time with your friends or family. Setting up a campfire will be a great way to connect via games and food. You can also play and sing some songs. It could also be simply exchanging stories. In the morning, you can have your own activities or explore what the campsite has to offer.