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Hiking is one of the most popular outdoor pursuits today. It gives us the enjoyment of the open air and the pleasure of Natures wonderful scenery.
The benefit of improved physical health and mental well being comes as a free gift!
There is in nature the risk of the unexpected, so be sure to have with you all the necessary items for any sudden surprises.
So, if you're ready for the challenge, here are the 9 basic tips for every hiker to put into action.
It would be a good idea to take a note of the following list or take a screenshot for future reference.
1. Fitness Level
2. Map out your Hike
3. Tell a Friend
4.Weather Check
5. Safety Essentials
6..Wear the Correct Gear
7.Less Weight is Great
8.Easy Pace
9.Tidy Up
Read on to get to grips with each subject in detail.
FITNESS LEVEL
It's important that you recognise how your body is going to cope with the physical challenge set before you.
So, start off small. Take a stroll around your local park and check at which time and distance you start to feel fatigue.
Do this a couple of days a week, increasing the distance each time by maybe a mile or two. You'll soon be ready to choose a suitable length trail for your first hike.
Be realistic and don't take on too much too soon.
A first hike of 5 miles would be a reasonable distance. You can increase the length on future hikes in keeping with your improved fitness level.
MAP OUT YOUR HIKE
You're feeling fit and healthy and have chosen your first trail.
Getting familiar with the route beforehand will help get you back home on time!
Get a map of the area and study the route.
There are trails that have paths leading off that can confuse. You'll be taking your map and other navigation aids, but checking out the route will give you confidence.
TELL A FRIEND
Before setting out, let a friend or family member know where you're going and what time you expect to return.
Take into account that you'll be stopping for rest breaks and may want to take photos of the scenery.
But in the event that you go off course and fall behind on time, you'll have someone to raise the alarm.
WEATHER CHECK
Always check the weather forecast for the area close to the hike time so you can pack the right gear for the duration of the trip.
It can be a sunny 6 am when you first set off, four hours later, there's a storm overhead and it's pouring down with rain.
You need to set off with the right gear. An umbrella isn't going to hack it!
SAFETY ESSENTIALS
Your safety is paramount.
There are a number of safety devices available to deal with every situation.
You should have with you all necessary safeguards according to your chosen trip.
Are you taking a day trip? Maybe camping overnight. A backpack journey into the wilderness. Each trip may need a different group of safety tools.
Some are obvious and some not so. I've listed here the recommended essentials for your hiking safety.
Map, Compass, GPS
Repair kit/ Knife/ multi tool/ Duct tape for clothes/ equipment
First Aid Kit Flashlight/ beacon/ extra batteries LED Headlamp Matches/ lighter
Whistle/ Magnifying glass/ Hat/ Sunglasses/ Sun block
Water filter/ Extra Food/ Water/ Extra Clothes/ A WATERPROOF Backpack.
WEAR THE CORRECT GEAR
Wearing jeans and a t-shirt is a no no. That also goes for cotton socks.
Denim and cotton are water and sweat retainers and that will make for an uncomfortable experience.
There are Moisture Wicking Clothes available that are specifically made to release moisture and keep the body cooler, drier and better ventilated.
There are many brands on the market today. Popular with hikers are long pants that you can fold and shorten in the heat of the day.
Long sleeve tops are advisable as they protect your arms from getting scratched on overgrowth and rocks. They can of course can be rolled up as you wish.
A good quality fleece is great addition for your travels. They are a terrific midlayer top that are lightweight and comfortable.
Hiking socks are made from synthetic materials and Marino wool that wick away moisture, keeping the feet dry and helping to prevent blisters.
Go for socks that are padded on the heel and toe and has extra arch support.
We've worked our way down to the feet, so the question is 'What boots are best for hiking'?
There is no simple answer to this question as there are many factors as to which boots are right for you and what type of terrain are you hiking out to.
I've studied many different boots on user reviews and comments. I've also checked out design and price and working comfort and durability.
Read about my five best boots here which includes the next ten runners up.
I've also written a question and answer article to help you decide on the right boot for you.
LESS WEIGHT IS GREAT
So, now you have all your gear on the lists, you now need to carry it!
Backpacks come with many options. It pays to buy a good quality waterproof model. Choose the correct weight and capacity for your needs.
For a day hike, a capacity of 20 to 35 litres volume should be sufficient.
For overnight and long trips, I'd recommend choosing a 40 to 50 litres bag.
While it is tempting to choose the lightest bag, keep in mind that it needs to be strong enough to carry the load.
There is a well thought out rule that you should carry no more than a third of your body weight. For first timers on an easy day hike, you won't hit that limit.
Remember though that less weight is great, so don't be tempted to take unnecessary items.
EASY PACE
If you want to make sure to finish your hike without having to call for a taxi, you must pace yourself.
Check your easy walking speed and the distance of your planned hike.
So, if your fitness level speed is 2 miles per hour and the hike length is 10 miles, your looking at an approximate 5 hour walk.
Keep in mind stopping for breaks and add that to your estimated time of finishing.
(refer back to TELL A FRIEND)
TIDY UP
We all have an obligation to keep our Planet clean.
Read the Leave No Trace Seven Principles guide.
Nature will love you for it! I hope you have found this article helpful. Now it's time to turn theory into practice.
STAY SAFE AND ENJOY!