How to Have a Hiker’s Adventure Without the Worry
Are you wanting to go on a hike but you’re too nervous because “what if…”?
You’re right, there are many things to worry about. But that just means you need to take a few precautions. Without having to worry about what could go wrong during a hike, you’ll be excited to face all the challenges — knowing you’re prepared.
When it comes to getting out of the house and away from your everyday routine, the outside world can feel scary. But once you have everything you can possibly need packing in a bag — and on your back — you’ll feel a weight lifted off of your shoulders.
That feeling of freedom being able to survive without the things you live with every day is a euphoric thing to chase. Don’t let worry and fear of emergencies keep you from achieving this experience you’ve been craving.
To help, here is a hiker’s safety guide that prepares you for what you need to know about going on a hike — even if you’re by yourself.
Plan Your Hiking Trip First:
The most important hiking tip is to make sure you plan ahead. If you’re new to this type of experience, the first thing to take into account is how much you can handle. Select a trail that matches your ability. If you don’t think you can do an overnight trip, or too long on a trail, pick a shorter, less straining trail to start off on. Once you find your trail, look for the hiking guide and topographic map. Find out how long the trail will typically take to complete.
Let someone know with a checklist (just in case you get lost or delayed):
- Which trail you’re hiking
- How long it typically takes to complete
- How to get in touch with you
- When to call for a check-in
Traveling partners are great to have especially if you run into an emergency or unexpected situations. But if you’re traveling solo, pick a popular trail so if you do get lost it’s more likely someone will find you faster.
Hiking Gear Tips
Most hiking tips and tricks are all about how to pack accordingly. There is no backpacking list that will work on every type of trail. What you pack depends on where you’re going and how long it will take.
But you never know what could happen even on a day hike. So here are five things that are generally good to have in case of emergencies —
- A Knife
- Multi-purpose tool
- Extra food
- A way to filter water
- Emergency Bivy (in case you get lost, you’ll have shelter)
Hiking Techniques
A great hiking tip for beginners is to protect yourself in more ways than one. Dress in layers, even if you check the weather app the conditions can change. Cotton clothing is hard to dry after it gets wet.
If the path you’re walking on has tall grass or isn’t paved down, wearing leggings can prevent your legs from taking damage. Wearing a pair of long socks can help too. If you don’t want to wear layers, you can pack extra clothing (like those socks) just in case you need to change or stay warm.
Hiking boots also need to be worn and fit properly. If you bought a pair of shoes for a certain trip, wear them beforehand to break them in to prevent blisters and sore feet.
Pay attention to landmarks on the trail and check your map often. Turn around occasionally to see how the trail will look when you start heading back (this will make finding your way back easier).
Take breaks at any trail junction. If you’re not traveling solo, never stray from your partner or group. Drink often to avoid dehydration. But don’t drink water from ponds or streams unless you treat it (boil it, filter it, or use an Iodine tablet).
If in an Emergency During Your Hike
Keep calm, count to ten, take a sip of water and eat a snack then assess your situation. Stay put unless you can make your way to a trail and stay there. It’s a lot easier to have someone find you if you’re close and don’t stray too far.
During a day hiking tip, if you must spend the night building a campfire can provide heat, light, protection, and comfort (also can help others find you).
If you think you can find your way back and there is a water source, follow the streams downhill. They almost always lead you in the right direction to safety.
In case of an injury, if in a group, at least one person needs to stay with the person injured while others find help.
Know basic first aid techniques so that you can easily take care of a cut or burn. Or be able to wrap up a foot or hand to help the swelling and pain. Have a contact with the local forest service saved in your phone in case you have to make an emergency call.
Last Backpacking Tip
With taking in every safety precaution, you can, the next thing to focus on is to have fun. Don’t stress or worry too much about if something might go wrong. That’s why we prepare for the worst-case scenario and plan ahead.
So now you’re ready to go on a hiking trip, all you need to do now is find which trail suits you best. But how do you know where to start?
Simple, figure out how to find the best hiking trail for you. And remember to take all the safety precautions beforehand so that you can have the memorable experience of backpacking you desire.
References:
