Hiking with family is relaxing and fun. Hiking lets you observe nature that cars can’t reach. Rediscover your childish joy by forgetting time, your job, and other pressures. Hiking together in the woods is the best way to reconnect.
If you enjoy hiking, consider the tips outlined below.
1. Examine the Weather Report in Advance
The best approach to enjoy your trek is to go on a day with favorable weather. You may be inclined to go forward regardless of the weather, but remember that bad weather is a leading cause of hiking-related injuries and can make even the most scenic trails unenjoyable. If you’re hiking, come rain or shine, you should still check the forecast to bring the appropriate clothing and equipment.
2. Beware the Downpour
The worst part of a hike is getting wet feet and damp clothing. Besides being unpleasant, it may also be harmful. In other words, you should probably check the forecast before setting it out. Check the wind speeds in addition to the precipitation and temperature forecast. Windy days sometimes result in branches breaking from trees and falling into pathways, creating a hazardous situation for hikers.
3. Have a Significant Amount of Food and Water on Hand
Water is essential for survival, making it the must-have item for every outdoor excursion. Don’t forget to take enough water for your journey; you’ll need a liter every two hours you expect to be in the wilderness. Get a refillable water bottle and put stickers on it from your travels. You’ll be able to reduce your spending on unnecessary plastics and feel good about showing it off on your hike.
High-energy foods that don’t need a freezer or heating are ideal for a day trek. You should have jerky, dried fruit (especially mangoes), trail mix, and sports drinks.
4. Get Your Bags Ready with the Eight Must-Haves
Whether you’re camping or trekking, bring these below items.
- Navigation (map and compass)
- Shade from the sun (sunglasses and sunscreen)
- Insulation (additional clothes)
- Lighting (headlamp and flashlight)
- Package of basic medical equipment
- Ignition source (a candle, lighter, or matches that are water-resistant)
- Tools and a repair kit
- Tent, plastic tube tent, or trash bag for emergencies
Use a tactical backpack to carry these essentials. And, although this list may seem overwhelming at first glance, it will become much more manageable if adapted to your specific hiking trip.
5. Put on Proper Footwear and Socks
Hiking might be ruined by sore feet. Get yourself some good hiking boots and socks. This doesn’t have to mean a pair of bulky leather boots; nowadays, you can get a wide variety of “light hikers” that won’t need as much time to break in as your previous pair of hiking shoes.
Don’t scrimp on socks, and please, no cotton! Socks made of wool or synthetic fibers are recommended. It’s crucial to consider how your leg length compares to the height of the boot. The best all-around hiking sock is a crew-length pair made from merino wool, and they are well worth the price. Also, consider including blister treatments in your emergency kit.
6. Always Have a Flashlight
If you want to get to your destination before dark, you’ll need to start going soon. Getting trapped in the night without a light might be dangerous if your journey goes longer than intended, so be sure to have one with you at all times.
Having a light when hiking is essential if you want both hands free to focus on your balance. Don’t rely on your phone’s flashlight alone; it might run down your battery and shut off on you.
Wrap Up
Read the above guidelines carefully and implement them. Get out and enjoy the outdoors this year by following these trekking suggestions.
