Hiking Tips for Beginners

Hiking for beginners can be both daunting and exciting. There are no special skills required in hiking; you just have to be able to walk and still be aware of your location. Hiking is also a great way to indulge yourself in Nature and renew your self-energy. For beginners, it’s essential to know some tips to make sure your hike will be safe and fun.

Hiking Tips for Beginners

Hiking is an adventure that lets you appreciate the beauty of the outdoors. You will be able to appreciate the bountiful resources in our environment and learn more about different places. It also broadens your horizons, and you will enjoy a more amazing outdoor experience. Not only that, the outdoors can aid in acquiring health benefits such as boosting your immune system.The following are important tips for hiking beginners:

#1 Choose an easy hiking destination

You can consult some other hikers that you know so that you can get more information and recommendations. As a start, choose a destination near your place. This is fine so that you can reach the camp before dark. It’s better to plan on hiking for short distances so it will be easier to carry your gear and tools.

Choose a well-travelled trail and a great camp. Ask your co-hikers if they know some significant camping areas and easy trails. They can be fun and enjoyable for your camping experience. As a beginner, it’s advisable to start with easy trails instead of difficult ones.

Ensure that the place has water near the camp. The source of water can be from a lake or river. There can also be streams and springs. It will be easier if such resources are present in the chosen place so you can quench your thirst after the long hike.

#2 Prepare and Bring Essential Hiking Gears, Tools and Clothing

There are various gears that you need to bring for your camping. Some of the essential things you need to prepare are the following:

• Tent. A tent is one of the most important things to bring during camping. Choose a tent with high quality and a size perfect for you and your companions.
• Backpack. Make sure your bag fits you comfortably. This is where you will load your essential items. It should be comfortable to carry and must not give too much pressure on your shoulders and hips.
• Maps and Compass. These are the essentials you need to have when going to 
• Sleeping bags and sleeping pads. In choosing a sleeping bag, a synthetic bag is an option. It’s versatile and usually more affordable. Also, a sleeping pad will aid you to have a good night’s sleep. When buying a sleeping pad, make sure to know the different options, including insulated air pads, closed-cell foam pads, and self-inflating pads. You can ask the other hikers which one can be excellent with beginners.
• Kitchen Supplies. Kitchen utensils must also be carried in camping such as plates, cups, pans, pots, and utensils. It will also be helpful if you could bring a small sponge and soap to wash the dishes. Bring also a tiny towel for cleaning purposes.

#3 Water Treatment

Water sources can be pristine-looking, but there can be still impurities. It’s a smart idea to treat the water in the camping area. You can have a filter or, you can bring chemical treatment drops or tablets. Use them to purify water in your bottle.

#4 Bring the Proper Clothes for Camping

There are proper clothes that you need to bring during camping. They will help you feel more comfortable while you’re hiking or staying in the camp. The following are the clothing essentials you should prepare:

• Hiking layers: These can include nylon pants, sun shirts, t-shirts, and a sun hat.
• Long underwear: These refer to next-to-skin base layers to keep you warm and protected, especially during cold nights.
• Rainwear: Bring a breathable or waterproof jacket, as well as rain pants. These type of rainwear can also prevent insect bites, thus giving you additional protection.
• Insulation: These may include jacket, warm hat, gloves, and a lightweight fleece pullover.
• Wear proper shoes and socks. Choose wool or synthetic socks. They can help prevent painful feet that may ruin your hiking experience.

#5 Plan the Foods that you are Going to Bring

Especially if you’re going for overnight camping, you should plan and prepare for your food during breakfast, dinner, and lunch. Foods that can be prepared just by adding boiling water is one of the best options. You can also bring canned foods; however, they can be heavy on your backpack. Also, it’s essential to bring some extra food, so you’ll have an extra while you’re staying outdoors.

#6 Be Mentally Ready

Get yourself familiar with the gear you’re going to bring. Check your tent, test your stove, and filter water before you start going for the hike. It’s also crucial to learn basic first aid and reading maps, so you’ll be ready when an emergency happens.

To sum up, here are ten essentials that you should be on your checklist:

#1 Maps and compass for navigation

#2 Proper Clothing for Insulation

#3 Sun Protection (including sunscreen and sunglasses)

#4 Nutrition (food and water)

#5 First Aid Supplies

#6 Illumination (flashlights and headlamps)

#7 Extra Water for Hydration

#8 Repair Kit and Tools

#9 Materials to make a fire such as waterproof matches, candle, and lighter)

#10 Emergency shelter including tent, garbage bag, and plastic tube

Final Thoughts

Hiking is said to be another great low-impact workout. That’s why fitness lovers can benefit it can bring to both physical and mental health. There are studies which show that it provides various benefits, including reducing anxiety, boosting the immune system, and preventing osteoporosis. Besides, hiking is an excellent outdoor activity for fun and enjoying the beauty of Nature.

When going for a hike, make sure to prepare and bring the necessary gears and items to enjoy to make hiking safe and exciting. It will also be helpful if you will learn basic first aid and navigational skills.