An actuarial and mathematical science graduate from the State University of New York and former healthcare program specialist at the New York State Department of Health, Jeffrey Plotzker enjoys hiking in his spare time. Hikers like Jeffrey Plotzker take many precautions before setting out.While hiking safety is important for everyone, solo hikers must take extra precautions due to the lack of potential immediate assistance. Solo hikers, for instance, should generally stick to well-traveled trails, especially for their first hikes, to minimize the chance of getting lost or stranded. They should also make sure someone knows exactly which trail they're on and how long they plan to be gone, so if something goes wrong on the trail, rescue can come sooner rather than later.Foreknowledge and good planning are also key to a good solo hiking experience. Before setting out, hikers should have a good sense of how long they can hike and what their fatigue thresholds are, and should avoid excessive challenges. They should also make good preparations, including not only food and water but a first aid kit, a headlamp, and appropriate weather gear, even if the forecast doesn't predict inclement weather.
The recipient of a bachelor's degree in actuarial and mathematical science from the State University of New York at Albany, Jeffrey Plotzker most recently served as a healthcare program specialist with the New York State Department of Health. Outside of his professional pursuits, Jeffrey Plotzker enjoys hiking. Preparing for a lengthy hike involves more than just picking an interesting route and following through. One of the most important requirements for venturing into the woods is a backpack capable of holding all of your essential items, while not being too difficult to carry. One of the first things you should do when purchasing a new backpack is consider how long you will be hiking. If you're going on a day or weekend trip, a 30- to 50-liter lightweight pack will be sufficient, although it requires careful planning to ensure you fit everything you need. For trips lasting longer than five nights or winter treks extending overnight, consider purchasing a 70-liter bag, which can accommodate a four-season tent and extra clothing.Once you have an appropriately-sized backpack chosen, you should consider how it fits on your back. The ideal backpack should comfortably grip your hips and cover your torso. You can also look into load lifter straps and sternum straps to alleviate any comfort concerns. Additionally, make sure to select a backpack with shoulder straps that curve to conform to your body shape and a padded hip belt, especially if you're carrying more than 10 pounds.
