If you are planning a hike, it is important to have the proper hiking gear based on your personal needs and the nature of the activity. Here is the checklist for your reference -
1. Backpack
- Place light items at the bottom, heavier items in the middle, and the heaviest ones on the top. Put less frequently used items first and frequently used ones on the sides. Be sure weight is equally balanced on each side.
- It should not exceed one third of your body weight. The maximum weight is 40lb.
2. Hiking shoes - ide toe box hiking shoes with deep and thick lugs on outsole are preferable.
3. Socks
4. Shirt - Wear sun protective/moisture-wicking/breathable long-sleeved shirt with collar to avoid sunburn on your arms and the back of your neck.
5. Trousers - Sun protective/moisture-wicking/breathable loose-fitting trousers are preferable.
6. Towel/cooling towel/arm sleeves
7. Outer garments & windproof jacket/rain jacket
8. Hat, sunglasses, umbrella, gloves
9. Spare clothing
10. Hiking stick
11. Compass & map (Countryside series published by the Lands Department)
12. Illumination device
13. Whistle
14. Food & emergency food: Bring portable and conveniently packaged food with high calories, e.g. glucose, raisins, and other high energy food.
15. Water bottle & water (Drinking water refilling stations in Country Parks)
16. Personal drugs & first aid supplies
17. Sunscreen and mosquito repellent
18. Mobile phone & battery/charger & charging cable (Mobile network services in Country Parks)
19. Watch
20. Mobile phone
Bringing a mobile phone alone may not be enough, you also need to know how to seek help in an emergency! Hong Kong Police Force mobile app "HKSOS" can be of help! You have to activate the track function before heading outdoor, so that the app allows you to reach the 999 emergency centre in case of an emergency. The app also presents SOS messages in graphic and text, and sends the user’s location, making it accessible for individuals with hearing or speech impairments.
Before heading out for a hike, make sure you are well prepared—safety first!
Source of information and useful links:
Enjoy Hiking website of the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department
Safety Hints on Hiking of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department
Hong Kong Hiking Trail Weather Service of the Hong Kong Observatory