Take a HIKE

HIKING IS GOOD FOR YOU – YOU’RE EXERCISING, OUT IN THE FRESH AIR, AND TAKING IN THE SURROUNDING BEAUTY. BUT IT’S ALSO A GOOD IDEA TO HAVE THE IDEAL BACKPACK ALONG AS YOUR BEST FRIEND.

With summer here, now’s the best time to explore and enjoy one of the amazing hiking trails right on our doorstep. It’s also the perfect way to spend time with your family with not a screen or digital device in sight. Whether you’re hiking for the first time or are an old pro at it – here are some tips on choosing a hiking backpack, and hiking essentials that are a must.

Three things to look for when buying a hiking backpack are:

�A hiking backpack needs to distribute weight evenly. The most important factor to keep in mind is comfort. No matter how many cool features it has, if the bag does not sit comfortably on your back and shoulders, then it is not the right hiking bag for you.

�The size of the backpack is all important. Decide if you’d prefer a bag that is wider and shorter, or longer and thinner. Obviously a bag that isn’t massive is first prize, but think about the duration of yo ur hikes and how much you need to take with you for a short hike (snacks and water) versus a full-day hike (light lunch, water, additional clothes). Internal storageis an important factor, and is the difference between having enough room or potentially having to take multiple bags.

�The key to a comfortable backpack is a balanced load. Too little padding will not protect your body from the strains of weight and can cause painful chafing. Similarly, too much padding will cause awkward and uncomfortable pressure against your body, which may lead to soreness, or standing in a strange way to ease the pressure. A decent backpack should have padding on the back panel, shoulder straps and hip belt strap.

The Thule AllTrail collection is a must for a day hike, offering a singular pack for all your hiking needs. An adjustable torso fit is built into the back panel, and combined with breathable shoulder straps, hip belt padding and back panel, even the toughest day hike is super comfortable. All your gear is within reach thanks to the easy access side zippers and front shoveit pocket; hydration sleeve frees up space for other essentials like keys and snacks; and there’s an integrated rain cover. This versatile all-rounder is available for men and women and comes in various sizes.

For something more lightweight, the Thule Stir range of hiking backpacks offer a simple, clean design, quick access via the top zippered mesh pocket, and über organisation for all your items. To be more streamlined, remove the sternum strap and hip belt; side pockets expand to stash water bottles and other essentials; weather resistant coated nylon fabric and breathable back panel and shoulder straps help you to stay cool. Comes in different sizes for men and women.

For the ultimate in comfort, opt for the Thule Capstone collection. Thetensioned mesh back panel provides unparalleled breathability keeping you cool on your trail; the high-visibility rain cover keeps your gear dry during storms; a customised hip belt is compatible with interchangeable VersaClick accessories (sold separately); there are a host of pockets – on the top and the side – to store loads of things; gear can be lashed to the front of the pack using the durable buttonhole webbing. Comes in different sizes for men and women.

Hiking essentials

Comfortable shoes and socks (and a few plasters). A hat and sunscreen. Water and snacks or a light lunch. Flint/matches and a warm jacket. A Thule hiking backpack and accessories.