1. Begin small and choose the appropriate path for your fitness level.
Choose a trek that is a bit shorter than the distance you usually walk on a flat or paved surface. To estimate the time needed to walk the route, assume a 2-mile-per-hour pace. After that, go through the elevation changes and add an hour to your anticipated hiking time for every 1000 feet gained. After a few outings, you will have a good idea of what distances and elevation variations work best for you.
2. Get acquainted with the path.
After you have decided on a route, get a map of the region and go through reports and statistics. There are several fantastic internet resources. Determine if the path is a loop or whether you will have to return or get a second vehicle. Take note of any crossing paths where you may take a false turn. I also like to search for a nice lunch location, such as a lake or a vantage point on a mountain.
3. Examine the weather.
Check the weather in the days leading up to your trek, and again a few hours before. This will provide you with useful advice on how to dress and what to bring. If the weather is predicted to be bad, you will have the opportunity to alter your plans rather than being caught off guard on the path.
4. Inform someone of your plans.
It is critical that someone who is not on the trek be aware of the schedule and understands when to be concerned and ask for assistance. I did not mention “when you expect to be finished.” The “worry time” may be several hours later than your intended completion time to allow for leisurely trekking, breathtaking vistas, or a sprained ankle.
Another alternative is to carry an emergency gadget, such as a SPOT tracker, which enables you to call for help through satellite. One caveat: gadgets like as the SPOT are not a reason to abdicate responsibility for your own personal safety – they are just a backup.
5. Bring the ten basics.
The ten necessities have evolved from a list of things to a list of systems. These are the systems you should have with you if you want to remain safe in the outdoors, even if you have to spend the night. Expand or reduce each system based on the duration and remoteness of your journey. A small emergency blanket, for example, should suffice for a brief summer walk near services. A distant winter trek, on the other hand, might require something more substantial. Here are the ten most important systems:
Ten Crucial Systems
Getting Around (map & compass)
Protection against the sun (sunglasses & sunscreen)
Thermoplastic insulation (extra clothing)
Lighting (headlamp/flashlight)
First-aid materials
Waterproof matches/lighter/candle
Tools and repair kit
Food and Nutrition (extra food)
Hydration is essential (extra water)
Shelter in an emergency (tent/plastic tube tent/garbage bag)
A perfect backpack which must be specially designed for hiking purpose
This list may seem overwhelming at first, but once tailored to your walk, it will not be that terrible. Many of these items might be appropriate for a picnic. For additional information, go to Mountaineers Books.
Hiking for Beginners: 10 Must-Know Tips
6. Put on the proper shoes and socks.
A trek may be ruined by sore feet. Purchase high-quality hiking boots and socks. This does not always imply hefty leather boots; there are several “light hikers” available that take minimal break-ins compared to the old hiking boots I began with. Also, do not scrimp on socks, and for God’s sake, do not wear cotton! Socks made of wool or synthetic materials are preferable. Blister dressings should also be packed just in case.
7. Put on a successful outfit.
After you have taken care of your feet, the key to comfort on your trek is to dress appropriately. Avoid anything made of cotton since it absorbs moisture and retains it, leaving you feeling clammy and causing chafing. Instead, use synthetics. Wear layers that you may add or remove as required to quickly adapt to your temperature and the weather. Finally, bring an additional warm layer in addition to what you believe you will need, ideally something that will block the wind as well.
Keep things simple.
Now that I have instructed you to pack everything, I am going to advise you to keep your bag light. This entails selecting the lightest of each item. For example, instead of the NoAd 16-ounce container, you saw on sale, go for a travel-size tube of sunscreen.
Hiking for Beginners: 10 Must-Know Tips
9. Take your time.
When you initially get on the path, you may feel like a hero charging forward. If you do not pace yourself, you will be zero by the end of the day. Instead, choose a speed that you can keep up all day. It may seem uncomfortable at first, but after a few kilometers, particularly if you are going uphill, you will be happy you conserved your energy.
ten. Leave no trace
The lovely paths we enjoy will only remain so if we take care of them. Take the time to read and observe the Leave No Trace Seven Principles. It is the responsibility of every outdoor lover to protect our natural areas.
I hope that by following these guidelines, you will be able to go trekking this season. Where are you going? Leave a comment with your thoughts; I would love to hear them!
