Have you decided to go hiking? Congratulations! But where to start? Here are 10 tips for beginner hikers. From equipment to the itinerary, here is everything you need to know in order to start the hike on the right foot!
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# 1 GoFindMe GPS Tracker
No matter where you hike, safety is always the priority. To be always on track and stay connected to your friends, it is essential to carry personal GPS tracker for you and your team members because your phone may be out of cell service coverage. With personal tracking devices, everyone can share real-time location on the phone app even when there’s no cellular service.
If you encounter an emergency, you can send SOS signals to others without cell service. GoFindMe is one of the best GPS tracking devices for personal use. The battery lasts as long as 72 hours, and the tracking range can reach up to 5 kilometers. Besides, there’ s no monthly subscription fee for this tracking device. moreover, it can be used as a car GPS tracker, which is added value.
# 2 Light Backpack
The second golden rule for beginner hikers: it is not a question of taking your whole house with you!
Think about the purpose and weight of each item you put in your bag. Ask yourself, are these items essential? Your backpack can quickly become your worst enemy when hiking!
Hiking with a light backpack has several advantages:
You will have less effort to provide. So you will be less tired and will be able to walk longer.
A light bag will save you from upper and lower body pain.
With a light bag, you will be more stable and less likely to slip or fall on the way.
# 3 Understanding the “layered” system
Layering clothing is an important concept hike. The idea is to have a basic t-shirt (your undercoat ) and a second intermediate layer, see the third layer.
Once you start walking, you will warm up, and can then remove the middle layer. If you start to get cold while climbing, you can put on your top layer.
Having three to four modular layers allows you to better control your body temperature.
# 4 Find your pace
Adopt a regular pace. Don’t walk too fast. It’s about finding a rhythm that you can maintain throughout the day. By being regular you will be more efficient and you will tire much less. After a few kilometers, especially uphill, you will be delighted not to have taken off! Hiking is not a race. It consists of taking your time and going at your own pace.
# 5 Take enough water
As a general rule, allow one liter of water per person for two hours of walking. Consider taking more in hot weather.
# 6 Comfortable shoes
We forget the flip-flops, converses, and other unsuitable shoes! What you need are good hiking shoes! Several things to consider when choosing your shoes:
Do they offer good ankle support?
Are they waterproof?
Are they well adjusted?
It is important to find a pair that suits you. Break them about 2 weeks before using them for hiking.
# 7 start slowly
No need to tackle Everest on your first hike! Start with a short walk near you.
Start by hiking on a trail in your area. These small trails are perfect for beginner hikers because they allow you to get used to walking slowly.
Taking small steps locally will also give you the opportunity to ” break ” your new shoes before embarking on a longer hike.
hike starts slowly
# 8 Check the weather
Notice to all beginner hikers: before going hiking we always check the weather!
Finding out about the forecast will let you know how to dress and what to pack. If the weather is a thunderstorm , you can reschedule the hike instead of being surprised by the showers on the trail.
# 9 Going out with friends
Hiking solo can be beneficial for many reasons – read our article Hiking solo, or how to go alone – but when you start hiking, it is better to go with others.
Beyond questions of safety and mutual aid, your hiking companions will also be an excellent source of motivation.
# 10 Leave only your fingerprints
Hiking is a great way to enjoy the nature that surrounds us. However, it will only remain beautiful if we take care of it.
Make sure to use the marked trails as much as possible. Do not pick up anything, and bring all your garbage with you.
Take the time to read and follow the 7 principles of Leave No Trace. It is up to us to take care of our natural spaces.
