Going on your first hike as a beginner is an exciting experience. But it is something you need to prepare carefully for. Hiking can be unpredictable, and if you become lost or injured, you need to know how to help yourself get out of a situation or get help fast.
The key to safe hiking is to be prepared at all times, and these tips for beginners can help you to do just that.
Know the area
While you can’t intimately know an area you have never been to, you can research it, and that is the difference. What type of trials will you be taking? It is a popular hiking spot; how far from amenities and cell service will you be going, and what is the approximate time you can expect to finish the hike? For beginners, you want to start with easy trails that can be completed in a few hours and are used by many people. This way, you can become familiar with the types of routes and conditions to expect when out.
Pack your gear
Hiking necessitates the need for equipment, and significantly more so for longer hikes. Whether you are packing an ambient hoody that can be worn alone or under a shell in colder weather to protect you from the elements, you carry sunscreen and plenty of water, or you have an emergency kit with first aid repairs, a portable cell charger, pocket knife, for example, should you need it in the event of an accident, what you pack will help you to stay safe and get help if you need it without waiting for the assistance of others. A daypack will be your best friend for hiking, ensuring you can comfortably carry everything you need.
Send out your location.
Beginner hikers, especially those going to unfamiliar locations, are more at risk of accidents and injuries than experienced hikers. So telling people where you are going, what time you can be expected back, and who you will be with can help you ensure that if you have an accent and cannot call for him, someone else can on your behalf. Alternatively, if you have a GPS tracker on your phone, turn it on, or use a radio that can allow you to call for help on emergency channels if you are out of cell service range.
Water
Water can be heavy to carry, but dehydration is a killer, especially on hot days; for a four-mile hike, you should aim to take around two liters of water. For longer hikes, water purification packs or drops can help you to refill your water supplies from water sources without worrying about if it is drinkable or not and having to carry heavier loads.
Break your shoes in.
If you are buying new gear to hike in, make sure you break it all in during everyday use before heading out, especially footwear. This can remove the obvious blisters and sores you will get from long periods in new footwear and allow you to ensure they fit correctly before you have no choice but to suffer. Well-fitting, comfortable footwear is a must for hiking, but hiking in brand-new shoes should be a no-go.
While this isn’t exhaustive, it can be helpful for those who are eager to head out on the trails and experience life on foot by exploring the great outdoors. Always stay safe, stay hydrated, and be careful when hiking.
Discover more from The Cameron Journal
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
