Worn & Wound
Gear Guide: Nine Safety Essentials for Every Solo Hiker
Wilderness exists outside the scope of human influence. Weather, trail conditions, and wildlife are some of the reasons we seek experiences outdoors, but they are always the most unpredictable aspects. When it comes to preparedness and hiking gear, it can be hard to determine the right mix of useful items to bring on an excursion and what might unnecessarily occupy precious space in a bag. As a Coloradan who enjoys being outside, I find myself thinking about these things at the start of every summer – and my pack has certainly evolved along with my experience. Yet, I also find myself influenced by EDC culture telling me “this one gadget could save my life.” In late May, I sought out an opportunity to learn what I should actually prioritize when I head to the trail. The weekend was spent crammed in a frigid office building with thirty people and countless CPR dummies. Over a period of sixteen hours, I learned how to conduct head-to-toe exams, assess and treat injuries, evaluate environmental hazards, and the skills needed to be a leader in a wilderness setting where professional medical care may be hours away. I finished the course with a shiny new Wilderness First Aid (WFA) badge, a re-upped CPR/AED certification, and a bit more confidence in how to pack a hiking bag. Above all, I learned that preparation is the only part of a trip we can control. A few weeks ago, I put that knowledge into practice as I headed six hours south to Taos, New Mexico for my first solo hik...
