We here at SunnyScope love having fun, whether it’s at work, out in the woods, on trips, or just throughout the day, and we thought that doing a piece on all things outdoors by the alphabet would be a kick. So come along with us as we list the all-important aspects of camping, hiking, and adventuring in the wilderness from A to Z. Feel free to share what your choices for each letter would be!
A is for Audio
Although listening to the sounds of nature is something we can all look forward to on a hike or camping trip, sometimes your favorite songs serve as the perfect soundtrack for enjoying the great outdoors. Whether you choose to use your iPhone, digital mp3 player, or a device specifically made for the rough-and-tumble nature of the outdoors, having an audio source along is a great way to enjoy passing the time, even while doing absolutely nothing at all.
B is for Backpack
A good backpack is a necessity for the avid trekker or camper. The ability to fit and protect your gear while being durable enough to see several years’ use will make all the difference to an outdoor enthusiast. Make sure your choice of backpack has ample support for your back and shoulders, and always keep the working parts maintenanced!
C is for Compass
If you spend any amount of time in the woods or wilderness, you should carry a compass. It is possible to become lost even in areas you feel you know well, and having a compass can, at the very least, put you in a certain direction. If you were caught in a snowstorm, for instance, you would no longer be able to rely on the location of the sun to guide you. A compass should be a permanent component of any adventurer’s gear.
D is for DIY
DIY, or do-it-yourself, is becoming a more popular trend as people yearn for knowledge of how to do things outside of the realm of technology. Learning how to start a fire by hand, make your own trail mix, create an alcohol-burning camp stove, or build a shelter using only the resources provided by nature are just a few of the ways that you can participate in a DIY project on your outdoor adventures. Engaging in this type of learning helps to build confidence and dexterity in children and grownups. It is important that you do your research before you begin such a project, and always make sure children have adequate supervision and assistance from adults!
E is for Emergency Kit
The value of an emergency kit cannot be underestimated, even if you’re only going out on a nature walk for a few hours. Your kit will vary depending on your activities, but first aid supplies, water, energy bars, tape, emergency blankets, string or twine, a knife, and a GPS unit are some items that should be on your list. A simple backpack can house all these materials and more, so don’t find yourself in an emergency situation empty-handed! A little preparation will go a long way.
Stay tuned for the next segment of Adventuring By the Letters!
