Hiking can be a broad term, however, there are a lot of general tips that will apply to almost any hiking adventure. The top 10 hiking tips I have outlined below will ultimately make any trip 10x easier for you.
I love hiking in the wilderness, mostly to see the amazing landscapes that Mother Nature has to offer us. Over the years I have been doing it, I have learned a thing or two that I think you will benefit from as well.
Read on if that’s something you want to do ?
1. Gallon Storage Bags
Use these nifty bags to your advantage by storing your upcoming meals and snacks. When you stop for a meal there’s no need in trying to decide on what you should eat next.
Label them with the time you are supposed to eat them.
Of course, it takes a little more time to prep it all, but it will be well worth it in the end.
2. Remember The Location Of The Great Views
Over time you will start forgetting where pictures were taken, this can get really annoying when you forget where that amazing view was.
I would recommend you take a notepad and write down the photo’s number, along with a brief description of the location. Now you can always revisit that beautiful place as much as you want.
3. Towel Hack
Sometimes it can start raining out of nowhere. I hope you were prepared. Grab a towel out of your backpack and fold it up, wrap it around your neck and pull your hood up over your head.
When rain leaks through your jacket, the towel will soak it up so you won’t have the cold raindrops running down your back.
Related article: Teton Sports Scout 3400 Review
4. Keep Your Valuables Dry
This is for the items that absolutely HAVE to stay dry. Get a wide-mouthed water bottle and pad the inside with a bandana (to stop rattling).
This tip will also stop you from losing items, so I suggest you place things in you don’t want to lose either.
Place all your most valuable items inside, such as cellphones, batteries, matches, ID, money, etc.
5. Don’t Rely On Memory
You might think that you know the route perfectly, however, after a lot of trips your attention-to-detail will be way off.
I recommend that you pack as much info as possible regarding the area you are hiking in (maps, route photos, descriptions of the course).
This is mostly for safety purposes, just in case you are lost then the information you brought will help you get on track.
6. Get Decent Boots
Many people have a tendency to get boots that are on sale or second hand (even I’m guilty of this mistake), then they wonder why their feet and ankles get sore.
A lot of times it can just be that you’re wearing the wrong size.
A good rule of thumb to follow: You should focus on the boot fitting properly, how comfortable it is, and the overall performance.
7. Pack Multiple Layers
Just because it’s a hot summer day and you’re pretty much sweating as you climb the steep hills, that doesn’t mean that it will be that same temperature or conditions in another hour or 2.
Thunderstorms can pass through in all seasons (no, seriously). Be prepared for any type of weather and always bring multiple layers, or at least a jacket if you don’t have enough room.
8. Stay Hydrated
I find that the number one mistake people make, and mostly the one reason why a good trip suddenly turns south on them, is because they are dehydrated.
Now, this is easily avoidable, simply by drinking water! That’s it, and a lot of people still don’t drink enough.
If you don’t know whether you’re properly hydrated or not, your urine will tell you. Light or clear for hydrated. Golden or yellow for dehydrated/need more water.
9. Remember To Eat
This is just as important as staying hydrated. You will be burning a bunch of calories as you tramp through the wilderness or climb a mountain, it is only vital to keeping those energy levels up.
A hearty meal before you start the day is a good start, while snacks and other meals are just as important. I know it can be hard to remember while you are out there having fun.
Just stop for a snack at least every hour to replenish your energy. If you’re a forgetful person, use an alarm on your phone to remind you.
10. How To Keep Your Water Cold
When you’re hiking in extreme heat your water can often get heated up really quickly. However, you can place your water bottle in a sock, soak the sock and hang it onto the side of your backpack.
The next time you take a swig you will be surprised at how cold the water is.
Conclusion
Everyone loves a good hike, but not everyone prepares for one properly.
A hike can be up a public track or it can be completely unknown as you go with friends or family into the wilderness. But it is up to you to stay safe and keep your hydration/energy levels up.
No one else is going to remind you, other than me, who really cares about you and wants you to do it properly.
So at the end of the day, you can go home to your family and friends with no injuries. Except for awesome memories to tell!
If you found this article helpful, please leave a comment below! Or check out my lightweight hiking tips.