Editing Hikers (section)

== '''Essentials for (longer) hiking''' ==
===''Good footwear''===
It might sound obvious but good footwear can make the difference between enjoying your hike or being in pain a lot of the time. Make sure before you do a long trip you have worn your shoes for some hiking hours already. When buying new hiking shoes be sure they don't hurt, pinch, are to big, are the right kind for the hike you're going to do (countryside or crossing mountains is a big difference), you try them with proper hiking socks and that you try different models to see which fits your feet the best. For the most comfort wear hiking socks (the materials used are best to keep your feet dry/warm and seams are very important when walking longer distances).
=== ''Water''===
Never leave your home without water. Reusable bottles (stainless steel ones are the most sustainable) are convenient to refill but for more serious hikes you could consider a hydration pack. For long distances it might be wise to bring something along to purify water in case you need to fill up with untreated water. Be sure you know the difference between treatments for bacteria or viruses. 
=== ''Food''===
Another obvious. Biscuits, dried fruit and (salted) nuts are the most common foods brought on hikes. When going for a long or intense hike and it could also be wise to bring some fructose with you as a quick fix when suddenly feeling weak. 
=== ''Hiking clothes''===
When hiking it's best to dress in "layers". When you start it might be chilly but when moving for some time, you can feel warm. Be sure the layer that is on your skin absorbs moist, so no cotton (this stays wet). Then add something for warmth and finish with a wind/rainproof layer. Most warmth is lost from the head so in colder environments or evening, always take a beanie with you. In warmer areas a hat is good to keep your head protected from the sun. Be sure you wear clothes that are weather appropriate. So light and quick drying fabrics for warm weather and warmer, more wind repellent clothes for cold. 
=== ''First aid kit''===
The bare minimum is some bandages in case of blasters and some painkillers. When going for longer hikes it might also be convenient to know how to tread more serious injuries. 
=== ''(Pocket)knife or multitool''===
Multiple options to use to multiple reasons to take it.
=== '' Map (and compass) or GPS''===
In case of longer trips it's always good to know how to navigate when you don't have phone reception. Be sure you upload the right maps in your GPS and know how to use it. When taking a map it can't hurt to buy a waterproof pouch so your backup will survive moist. 
=== ''Sun protection''===
Not only sun screen is helpful for protecting you from the sun, also take good (with the right filters) sunglasses and sun protecting clothes with you. Regular clothes aren't sunproof due to the way the fabrics are woven. 
===''Safety items''===
Sometimes the trail takes longer then expected, always be prepared for darkness. Take a headlight with you and a lighter in case you need to make a fire. A safety whistle/bell and/or an ultrasonic dog repellent could be useful in some areas.
=== ''Shelter''===
In case you need to spend the night outdoors and haven't prepared for that, a space blanket could keep you at least warm. They aren't expensive, light weight and easy to use. A tent can be much weight so a lightweight tarp could be useful too.