Tip #1: Choose the Right Trail
In situations where you have never been on a hike – or even if it has been awhile – it’s crucial to choose a relatively easy hike for your first time out. If you often take walks on a flat surface, endeavor for a hike that is a little shorter than you’d usually do. Additionally, pick a hike without any abrupt elevation changes. Steep inclines can mean a great challenge for an inexperienced hiker.
Tip #2: Pack the Right Gear
Classified as one of the critical mistakes beginning hikers make is to bring the wrong gear. To guarantee for certain that you stay safe and hydrated on your hike, wear light, moisture-wicking clothing that covers your arms and legs. Not only will it help you to prevent sunburns and insect bites, but at the same time, the clothing will protect you from scrapes and scratches, too. Wear a good pair of sneakers or hiking boots, and remember to bring a hat! Lastly, pack a backpack with snacks, additional layers of clothing, and about twice as much water as you think you’ll need. There are approximately ten essential items you ought to have every time you head out on a hike.
Tip #3: Bring a Map
Getting lost can ruin an otherwise pleasant hiking trip. Hence, before you go, make certain that you have a map or a GPS device of the area where you will be hiking. See to it that you understand your map and can orient yourself to the location before you begin. In case that the hiking trail is marked, stay on the course. If you choose to operate your phone or another device, have a backup battery, or put your phone in airplane mode to make the battery’s charge last longer.
Tip #4: Time Your Hike Right
The majority of hikers choose to start their day’s excursion early in the morning. This is mainly relevant if you are hiking when daytime temperatures are high. To make your hike a safe one, secure to check local weather reports carefully and know how long it will take you to complete the trek. Be conservative with your estimates – hiking is not a race. Hiking at a comfortable pace will make sure that you have great energy to finish the hike without overexerting yourself.
Tip #5: Use Good Hiking Etiquette
In the event that you’re hiking a busy trail, it’s essential to identify several basic etiquette rules. Hikers going uphill have the right of the way each time. Watch out for bikes and horses, and keep out of their way if you can. It’s well-mannered to say hello to people as you pass them, although avoid loud conversations if you’re hiking with friends. In case you want to bring your dog, keep it leashed at all times. And plan to carry out all of your trash with you. Granola bar wrappers, empty water bottles, and such, should never be left on the trail.
Tip #6: Use the Buddy System
The last of our hiking tips is to bring someone along on your hike in case you have an emergency. But even if you are planning to hike alone, make sure someone knows where you are and when you plan to be back. If you do get lost, this information could save your life.
By just being guided and obeying these few very easy hiking tips, you can absolutely cause hiking to become a safe and pleasant part of your life.