Always be prepared! This is the motto for any seasoned hiker who has witnessed or heard of hikers who have run into unexpected situations in the mountains.

Prior to heading out on the trails, you should always check the weather, review your planned hike using Alltrails or a trail map, let others know where you are going and pack the essential hiking gear you’ll need - just in case!

Even after doing your due dilligence, the weather may change, you may misinterpret the route and go off trail (which happens to me all the time) or you may have an unexpected injury like a twisted ankle or medical emergency.

Hikers will also often misintrepret how long the hike will take, leaving them in the dark on their way back. All of which could derail your hike in a hurry and cause you to be unable to get back to your car before sundown.

This is why Rentabackpack provides all hikers with essential gear like a rain poncho, emergency blanket, and a headlamp! Believe me, you do not want to have to hike back in the dark, or wait it out over night or wait for an emergency helicopter ride - without a headlamp!