What should be in the ideal hiking repair kit:
• Thread and Needles: Strong thread and a set of needles of various sizes (large and small), including curved ones—indispensable for complex repairs.
• Buttons: Several spare buttons for clothing.
• Needle Threader: This device will save your nerves and time, especially in poor light or when your fingers are numb from the cold.
• Solid Glue: Unlike liquid glue, which tends to spill and dry out, solid glue melts only when heated and sets quickly after the repair is complete.
• Patches: Scraps of durable fabric for repairing sleeping mats and other gear.
• Adhesive Tapes:
- Self-fusing rubber tape (like self-amalgamating tape).
- Strong reinforced (fabric) adhesive tape for emergency repairs.
• Sharpening Tools: A small sharpening stone or a pocket-sized sharpening steel.
• Dental Floss: Don't be surprised! It's not for oral hygiene, but for strong darning of holes—you can mend almost anything with it.
• Container: A spacious and sturdy box to store the entire kit.
Why is this so important?
Your safety depends on your gear, whether it's a solo trip into the mountains or a serious expedition. There's a saying: "You can't buy experience; you can only go through a trial." However, in the wilderness, such a "trial" can be your first and last. Facing the fury of the elements without proper protection risks you not getting a second chance.
Always thoroughly research the conditions you will encounter, prepare for the worst-case scenario, and carefully consider every item of your equipment. Scouts follow the principle, "Hope for the best, but prepare for the worst," for a good reason. Mountain weather is changeable: the morning sun can give way to a storm by noon. Don't let bad weather catch you off guard.
Next guide: How to Choose, Use, and Maintain a Camping Knife Previous guide: How to Choose a Sleeping Bag, Sleeping Pad, and Bivy for a Hike You can view the full list here: Survival Guides for the Mountains
