6 Most Important Tips for Hiking

Due to incorrect, faulty or missing preparation, a joyfully expected hike can quickly turn into a nightmare. Many readers here can surely confirm this. I have also underestimated some simple steps to prepare a hike or was later taught better. I would like to share these experiences with you in this blog, so that you can perhaps avoid one or the other mistake.

Generally speaking, hiking in the mountains can be a real pleasure. The “switch off your head” works again and again, the view in good weather is enjoyable and relaxing and the sight of wild animals in nature is often surprising and a highlight. Furthermore, the personal challenge of having reached the goal as well as the closeness to nature is impressive no matter what the weather. As a small downer, the early rising for further tours can already be accepted.

Since sometimes a fine line can make the difference between pure enjoyment and a nightmare hike, the 6 most important tips for hiking have been summarized below based on my own experiences:

Tour Preparation

Short story: We made a hike Karlovy Vary. We did not inquire when the last train leaves for home (about 15 miles away). The buddy’s wife was 9 months pregnant.

Solution:

• Informing about weather events or forecasts (especially storms, thunderstorms, snow, …)
• Stay informed about the trail conditions, weather (especially storms, thunderstorms, snow, …) and your return by bus, train, taxi, …
• Inform someone about the trip for example family, friends, … (in case something happens / injury, …)
• Take a navigation tool and other special equipment for the tour with you
• Charge your mobile phone
• Safety First – Always carry a first-aid kit and know how to use it. The Red Cross offers first-aid courses that every hiker should consider.

Choose the right “companions”.

Short story: We took a small hike with about 8 people. One had enjoyed himself too much with alcohol in the beginning. We had to organize a vehicle to pick us up before the hike ended.

Solution:

• Hiking in small groups is often better
• Alcohol can, but does not have to be
• Possibly check the health condition of all fellow hikers at the beginning of the hike

Dress for the weather

Short story: Four of us hiked up a mountain to the top. Due to too thick clothing, a buddy and I had sweated a lot and had to take several breaks. Upon arrival at the top of the mountain, almost everyone was wearing T-shirts in warm weather and we were sitting there with a sweater.

Solution:

• Functional clothing is often very useful
• Dressing in layers is a tried and tested rule for hiking
• Take a change of underwear with you if necessary
• Possibly ask what fellow hikers wear

Allotting enough time

Short story: On a hike with a buddy we got up too late and took too many pictures and videos along the way. We’ve barely reached the last cable car and we didn’t get to walk to the summit cross.

Solution:

• Often getting up early is helpful for longer hikes
• A brisk ascent without long breaks can save strength later and ensure more time at the summit

Pack sufficient food

Short story: Three of us hiked along a well-known trail in hot weather. Four restaurants (located one after the other) along the way to the destination were closed that day and our water supplies were depleted. The mood tilted little by little.

Solution:

• Better to carry one bottle too much than one bottle too little to drink –> danger of dehydration
• Small snacks for along the way are helpful, for example high-energy snacks (nuts, energy bars,…)

Realistic Assessment of the Hiking Route

Short story: The last few hundred meters before and on the ridge of a mountain were more strenuous than planned and took me to my physical limits. First circulatory problems set in at the height, etc.

Solution:

• Accurately inform yourself about the tour and equipment
• Do not overestimate yourself (Be honest about your fitness level and select a trail that suits you)
• Nothing is worse than being held up by a group that is not properly equipped

Conclusion: Tips for hiking

If all aspects are fulfilled, then “actually” nothing should stand in the way of the pleasure experience. Unfortunately, even perfect preparation is no guarantee that further or unknown surprises will appear. However, it can sometimes be very helpful to minimize these surprises through certain preparation steps or to have extended options available.

Here are some further general tips for hiking:

• Respect Nature – “Leave No Trace” principles should be followed religiously. This means staying on marked trails to protect vegetation, disposing of waste properly, and respecting wildlife.
• Educate Yourself – Familiarize yourself with local flora and fauna and learn how to handle any potential dangers. Knowing what to do if you encounter a bear in North America or how to react to a snake bite could be lifesaving.
• Trust Your Instincts – If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Turn back if the weather worsens or if you’re feeling unwell.

Hiking is a joy like no other, immersing us in the heart of nature and revealing the beauty this world has to offer. I hope these tips for hiking prepare you well for your next adventure. The trail is a great teacher, and every hike is a lesson. So, lace up those boots, get out there, and start exploring.

Sources:

Red Cross. (2023). First Aid Courses