Here in the Pacific Northwest we get our fair share of good and bad weather. But regardless of the rain, sleet, or snow we love camping in Washington and other outdoor activities. It may rain for several months out of the year, but that doesn’t stop us from hiking trails, camping out, and rock climbing. The weather here is fickle, so that means outdoor enthusiasts must always be prepared.
One aspect of preparation is acquiring the right clothing. That means layers, layers, and more layers! It’s so important to wear layers because while it may be 75 degrees during the day, the temperature could easily drop to 40 degrees at night. Also, try to buy clothing made of breathable fabric, like taffeta and cotton. These fabrics keep you cool when it’s hot and warm when it’s cold.
Family trips don’t need to be expensive in order to be memorable. There are many options for a family operating on a shoestring budget, but the best bet is to stay local. By saving on transportation costs, you can maximize the limited resources you have at your disposal.
Instead of coughing up bundles of cash on pricy hotel rooms, try bringing the family together in a wilderness setting. Pack up the camping gear, pile into the van, and head on down the road to Washington campgrounds. Once you arrive, begin teaching the kids a few valuable life lessons – give them a tent-pitching primer and a brief seminar on the finer points of catching fish.
We all know it’s important to be prepared when we go hiking. I remember one time my wife and I went on an Eastern Washington hiking trip and we forgot to bring rain ponchos. Suffice it to say, it was one cold wet night we would never forget. Wearing and bringing the right hiking gear could spell the difference between a good hike and a disastrous one. Trust me, I’ve experienced it.
Here are a few must haves when going hiking:
1. A sufficient supply of water.
2. Rain gear, like waterproof ponchos or rain suits (especially in the Pacific Northwest)
3. First aid kits
4. Sunscreen and other toiletries
5. Extra batteries and flashlights
