I think this post would be a great opportunity that everyone can take advantage of, whether you have experience with hiking or not. I hope you guys find this education and informative.

Hydration/ Water purification

Water is one of the most important things to have when out in the backcountry. Be sure to know beforehand the water locations, streams, pools, pumps etc. Never drink water right from the source ALWAYS purify contaminated water. Some ways of water purification are filtering, boiling, and water tablets. I like to use aquamira for water purification when I am on the trail.

Protection from the sun

Protection from the sun should also be in mind, always wear glasses, sun screen, a hat, stay cool and drink plenty of water. If you neglect to protected yourself from the sun the consequences could be fatal. Some damaging effect of too much sun are heat exhaustion, heat stroke, sun burn heat rash and skin cancer.

Planning/Research

Have several backup trips lined up within the region of your intended trek. Doing this will allow you to change your hike depending on weather, insect, trail and road conditions. Choose the proper hike to your appropriate level of experience. If you have never hiked a day in your life do not plan a 6-month trip to the Appalachian Mountains. Plan and research according to your level if a beginner start small, a day hike then work and add from a day hike to spending a night.

Conditioning

Hiking and backpacking is a strenuous task. First consult with a doctor before going on a backpacking trip. A combination of weight training and aerobic exercises are perfect for conditioning for a backpacking trip.