Useful Hiking Tips for Beginners: 12 Essential Tips

Here is our list of 12 essential hiking tips for beginners… if you are new to hiking, we hope these tips will help you before you set off on your next hiking adventure.

1. Plan where you want to go

First things first, decide on the hike you want to take. This probably goes without saying, however many of the other essential tips depend on where it is you are going to hike. You can use apps such as Alltrails to find routes for all different abilities, all over the globe.

2. Check the weather forecast

Once you know where you are going, firstly, always check the weather forecast. This way you will know how best to be prepared, before you set off. Although with hiking the weather can change the further up you get. So its always best to be prepared for different weather variations anyway.

However checking the forecast, will certainly help you to know what gear to set off in, you wouldn’t want to get wet, or too hot and sweaty before you’ve even started the hike.

3. Check the daylight hours

Also, check the sunset time for that day to ensure you allow yourself enough time to get back down before it goes too dark. In calculating the time, check how long the chosen route should take to complete. Then you will know how early to start to ensure you can be finished before dark.

However, always take a torch or head torch with you anyway incase you do not make it back down before the sun goes down.

4. Research the route

Before you leave always plan and check your route, ensure you have a good map to keep you on track, as well as a compass if needed. You can download a route planner app or use a paper one but always carry a back up just in case. Additionally, plan an alternative route incase your chosen route is compromised for any reason.

As a beginner hiker, always choose a route that isn’t beyond your capabilities, a lot of hikes have many different routes to choose from and are rated different difficulties for different abilities.

5. Tell someone where you are going

Ensure you tell someone where you are going and via which route, a friend or family member. Also, give them an idea of what time you expect to be back. However, don’t forget to let them know when you are safely back, so they won’t be worrying!

You could also use a tracker… some trackers for example Garmin, have a setting in which you can select someone who can live track your route to check you are safe.

6. Wear supportive footwear

Always wear suitable footwear; invest in a good pair of walking boots or walking shoes, preferably something that will protect your ankles with some grip on the sole. This is so important, not only to keep you safe on the trails, but to keep your feet, ankles and body supported during strenuous activity.

7. Wear suitable clothing

Ensure you wear and take comfortable and suitable clothing; windproof and waterproof layers are great for unexpected weather changes. As I always say, “there is no such things as bad weather, only bad clothing”. Staying dry and warm can make a massive difference to your hiking experience. As well as staying cool and comfortable on those hot days.

8. Invest in a decent backpack

Taking a backpack on long hikes can be extremely necessary to ensure you have all of the hiking essential needed. However, when carrying a backpack for hours and probably covering many miles and a lot of elevation, having something comfortable is very important. So, make sure you choose a backpack that fits you well and feels padded enough on your shoulders, testing it with all your gear in can be a good indicator.

9. Be prepared in case of an emergency

Take a phone that holds battery well in addition or instead of your smart phone, to ensure you will definitely have battery in case of an emergency. Smart phone can loose charge quite quickly on long hikes, especially when the weather gets cold further up. Also carrying a whistle can be very handy incase you ever (hopefully not) come into difficulty and need to call for help.

10. Hydrate and refuel

Always make sure you are well hydrated and fueled up before taking a hike. But also, take plenty of water and snacks to keep you hydrated and fueled along the way. Additionally, hydrate and refuel when you finish too.

11. Leave no trace

This should go without saying.. But, please “leave no trace but your footprints in the mud”. I think it’s supposed to be something about sand, but we will go with it. Always take any litter home with you, to ensure our beautiful nature, stays just that, beautiful.

12. Enjoy yourself

Last but not least – Enjoy! You will most likely see spectacular views wherever you decide to hike… so take it all in and take a moment to enjoy the scenery (whilst also getting your breath back). Take plenty of photos, but remember to look at the surroundings through your own eyes and not just the camera lens. Have fun and happy hiking!

If you enjoyed our hiking tips for beginners… Also check out what we pack in our hiking bags for more information on what to take with you.

Thank you for reading, we hope you find this useful. If this post has helped you or there is anything else you would have added, please let us know in the comments.

Lu & Ad

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