Towering mountains, magnificent plateaus, deep forests, and scorching deserts have always attracted thousands of hiking enthusiasts. They can be serene and mesmerizing but at the same time dangerous and challenging.
If you are reading this, you are most likely interested in mountain hikes. The thing is, going on a trekking tour requires you to stay focused at all times, never lose your cool and always expect the unexpected. And that’s exactly what our tips will teach you to do.
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1. Never Travel Alone
No matter how confident you are, it is always a good idea to have a partner by your side. Hiking alone can be dangerous and result in all kinds of unpleasant outcomes. You never know what awaits you ahead, do you? If everything goes fine, you’ll have someone to talk to, but if things turn bad you can get help and even survive.
2. Use Navigation Tools
Do not underestimate the value of navigation tools. Be sure to have a map and compass with you at all times. These are the two basic things that can help you get yourself out of trouble wherever you are.
Yes, you can use various gadgets, too. They are more advanced today than they used to be and can provide you with all the necessary information regarding your location. Some of them rely on mobile networks, while others can connect directly to satellites and provide you with high accuracy data. That said, you shouldn’t over-rely on gadgets. It’s always a good idea to have an ordinary map and compass with you just in case.
3. Think about Water in Advance
You won’t be able to have a good hiking trip without a sufficient supply of water. It is impossible to carry all the water you need, so you should mark all drinking water sources on your map and always stick to the chosen trail. Lack of drinking water can make your hike really complicated.
4. Take into Account Weather Conditions
Check the weather forecast before heading out. It is very important to be aware of the weather conditions in the area of your hiking trip. Keep in mind that the forecast isn’t always accurate, so you shouldn’t rely on only one weather site. The more you know about the weather, the better prepared you are for the upcoming trip.
5. Follow Your Planned Route
Do not give in to the temptation to take a shortcut once you have planned your route and figured out your stopover locations. Even if things seem safe on the ground, don’t risk your life. Planning is your best friend on a hike.
6. Mind Your Medical Condition
One of the most important things to keep in mind is your medical condition. If you have problems with your knees or back, if you’re highly allergic, if you suffer from asthma or any other respiratory disease, you should always consult a medical doctor before setting out on your backpacking trip. If you don’t, you may not know what to do if your health issues worsen when you’re out in the wilderness.
Plan your trail by taking into account the health problems you have. Learn about the allergy-inducing plants that grow in the area you are about to visit. Choose a less hilly terrain for your hike to avoid problems with your knees.
7. Do Not Overburden Yourself
The heaviest things in your backpack should be food and water. Do not take anything heavier than that as you will have to carry it all the time. It will quickly exhaust you and make you want to rest more often. Because of that, your hike may become unpredictably long and inconvenient.
8. Do not Cut Corners on Your Gear
Buy only high-quality gear. These things will help you in very difficult and challenging situations. Sometimes, there will be no second chances, you know.
9. Find Proper Hiking Shoes
Get yourself a pair of high-quality hiking boots. Unlike your favorite sneakers, they are designed to endure extreme conditions. Make sure you put them on before setting out on your trip to prevent blister formation.
10. Pack All Prescription Medications and Insect Repellents
It is also highly advisable to take anti-mosquito sprays, disinfectants, and a first aid kit. These things are not usually heavy and can prove to be life saviors (quite literally) in a number of situations.
