5 Tips Every Beginner Hiker Needs To Know

Maybe you clicked on this post because you’ve never been hiking before or maybe you clicked on this post because you’re interested in making sure that you have everything you need for your next hike.

Heaven knows that I’m the type of person who thinks that they have everything they need and then finds out that they forgot an essential item at home.

Whether you are just starting out as a hiker, or you’re a seasoned pro, here are 5 Tips Every Beginner Hiker Needs To Know.

1. Plan Your Day Hike

When you start early in the morning you’ll have more hours in the day for your hike. Examine a map or guidebook before you set off. Consider the time of the year that you’re hiking and check the weather forecast for the area that you’re going to hike.

Hiking speed on flat ground is four to six kilometers per hour. Smooth, dry trails are easier going than rough, wet trails, or ones that involve bits of a bush. Don’t forget to build in time for lunch and bathroom breaks.

Not only should you check the trails weather conditions and the weather forecast for the day of your hike, but you should go over your packing list to make sure that you have everything that you need.

2. Pack The Essentials

The average pack size is 24 liters. In the top compartment of the pack, you want to place items that you will need to reach quickly such as a rain jacket, snacks, first aid kit, water, compass, and map. In the bottom compartment of your pack, you want to place items that you need but don’t need immediate access to at the time. Pack lighter items at the bottom such as a sleeping bag, and heavier items such as cooking ware, utensils, food and extra clothes towards the top–closer to your back which helps the pack to balance.

3. Use Trekking Poles

Use trekking poles to support yourself while you hike to relieve the stress on your knees and ankles. Trekking poles distribute the weight of your body which lessens the stress on your body significantly especially walking downhill.

4.  Drink And Rest Regularly

Staying properly hydrated is the most important thing when hiking. It will not only increase your comfort but will also better your fitness. While everyone’s hydration system is different, it is important to stay hydrated.

This might seem like quite an obvious hiking tip, however many hikers end up rushing through the trail and skipping on rest breaks. Stopping and relaxing isn’t something to neglect. It helps you stay in shape and enjoy your hike. There is nothing worse than walking and hating every step you take cause you’re exhausted. My personal recommendation and a rule I apply

There is nothing worse than walking and hating every step you take cause you’re exhausted. It’s suggested to rest every 2h for about 15-30min depending on how you feel. A 2h interval also allows you to plan your day better and reach your destination in a good shape.

5. Tell Someone About Your Hike

You should also tell a trusted friend what trail you’re going to hike and when you’ll be back. This ensures that if something happens to you then someone will be on the lookout for you and be able to notify the appropriate authorities.

Where do you enjoy to hike? Comment below with your favorite hiking trail!