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Ready to get the most from your next hike?
Well, over 61 million people logged hiking trips in 2023 alone. But there’s a problem…
Hikers often overlook the most incredible experiences because they don’t know how to plan and prepare correctly.
Don’t make that mistake.
The proper travel tips will help you make every hike an unforgettable adventure. These essential insights will help you enjoy your hiking travel to the fullest.
Read on to discover:
- why hiking travel preparation matters
- the best time to hit popular trails
- essential gear you must have
- common mistakes to avoid
Why Hiking Travel Preparation Matters
The difference between an epic hike and a horrible one is preparation.
Consider…
When you have everything you need and have planned properly, you can enjoy amazing views and connect with nature. Without preparation, you’re miserable, dealing with blisters, lost or in potentially dangerous situations.
Nearly 50% of hiking accidents involve falls and slips. Most could be avoided with proper footwear, planning and preparation. Don’t be a statistic.
Choosing The Right Trail For Your Level
You won’t believe this…
Hikers make the most significant mistake by choosing trails that are beyond their skill level. We get it. It’s exciting to tackle a bucket-list trail on your first trip. However, if the route is too challenging, you risk injury and a disappointing experience.
Start with local day hikes that match your abilities. Shorter trails with easy terrain allow you to build up your stamina and skills. Once you have experience, you can progress to longer and more challenging hikes.
The goal? Don’t bite off more than you can chew with your first few trips.
Planning something epic? Multi-day hikes like hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu are incredible, life-changing experiences. However, they require a lot of preparation. This involves physical training and planning around permits, altitude acclimatization and weather.
Choose your hiking destinations honestly about your current fitness and experience. Then work your way up.
Timing Your Adventures Perfectly
One of the most critical pieces of information that most hikers don’t know…
When you hike can be as important as where you hike.
Trail conditions, weather and crowds affect your experience as much as the location. Summer is a popular time for hiking travel, but you’ll find trails are busiest and most weather extremes.
Consider going in the shoulder season, late spring or early fall. You’ll encounter less people and often more pleasant weather conditions.
Starting early is a game-changer. It’s cooler in the morning, you’ll see beautiful sunrises and you’ll have most of the trails to yourself.
Timing is different in different places. Mountain trails in many places have lingering snow in summer. In contrast, desert hikes become treacherous during summer heat.
Essential Gear That Actually Matters
You don’t need to spend a fortune on gear.
However, you need the essentials, and you need them to be good quality.
Start with your footwear. This is the most crucial piece of your hiking equipment. You need good hiking boots that fit, with support and grip. Break them in well before your trip. There’s nothing worse than blisters on a hike.
Your essentials list should include:
- appropriate and well broken in footwear
- Clothing in layers for the weather
- Navigation tools for all trails
- First aid kit
- Water and food
- Emergency shelter
But, did you know…
On average, hikers spend a mere $23 per trip on equipment, food and travel. Start with the basics and upgrade your equipment as you progress.
Navigation Skills Every Hiker Needs
Getting lost is easier than you think.
Map apps are a must for hikers. You can download offline maps before you head out. Cell service is often poor in the wilderness.
Use an app like All Trails or Gaia GPS to download maps for use without an internet connection.
Learn to read trail markers. Every trail system has a different method of marking the way – colored blazes on trees, rock cairns or wooden signposts. Study the symbols for the trail you’re on before you start hiking.
And, one more thing…
Tell someone your plan. You should always share your route, planned return time and emergency contacts. This simple step can save lives.
Physical Preparation Makes The Difference
Did you know…
Approximately 72% of hikers stated that well-maintained hiking trails improved their experiences. However, even the best maintained and most beautiful trails are no fun if you’re not physically prepared.
Train weeks or months before major hiking trips. You need cardiovascular fitness. Regular aerobic exercise will prepare your lungs and heart. You also need leg, core and back strength. These muscles take a beating on the trails.
Practice hiking with a loaded backpack. It’s amazing how a backpack that seems fine at home can hurt after five miles on the trail.
Don’t forget about altitude…
If you’re traveling to high elevation destinations, give yourself time to acclimatize to the elevation change. Get to your destination early and take it easy the first day or two. Altitude sickness can turn a dream hike into a terrible experience.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Common hiking mistakes include…
Starting too late in the day. You always think you have time to make it to the summit or end of the trail. Add in photo breaks, rest stops and stops for lunch. Before you know it, you’re racing to make it back in the daylight. Start earlier than you think you need to.
Underestimating water needs. You need at least one liter of water for every two hours of hiking. This is more in hot weather or at high altitude.
Neglecting to check the weather forecast. Mountain weather is unpredictable and changes rapidly. Check weather reports before you leave and be prepared to turn around if necessary.
Overpacking. The more weight you carry on your back, the more your hike will suffer. Every extra pound will slow you down and sap your strength. Be ruthless about what you really need.
Making The Most Of Popular Destinations
Bucket-list hikes are popular for a reason.
They offer incredible views, well-marked and well-maintained trails and a great sense of accomplishment. However, with popularity comes challenges.
Purchase permits early. Many bucket-list hikes require permits, which often sell out months in advance.
Go midweek. Weekend traffic on hiking trails can be overbearing. Tuesday through Thursday is much quieter.
Pro tip…
Start as early as you can. The early hikers are the ones who experience the trail the best way. Fewer people, better lighting and the pick of camping spots.
Wrapping Up Your Hiking Journey
Travel for hiking offers some of the most amazing experiences. A combination of physical challenge, natural beauty and a sense of personal accomplishment is hard to beat.
The key to success is preparation. Choose your hiking trails based on your ability, invest in quality footwear, train your body and never compromise on safety.
Above all, have fun. Remember that every experienced hiker was a beginner once. Don’t let intimidation stop you from exploring the most incredible trails. Start with shorter local hikes and work your way up.
The hiking trails are waiting. Now that you’ve got these essential tips, you’re ready to maximize every hiking experience and create unforgettable memories.