Pre-Hiking To-Dos: What to Prepare Before Embarking on a Hiking Trip

Hiking is a fantastic way to exercise and take in beautiful views. There’s a lot of research out there that shows how great hiking can be for your health. Plus, it’s a low-cost activity. But before you hit the trails, make sure you’re prepared. So, what do you need to do before you go? 

To ensure a seamless and delightful hiking experience, planning is crucial. This necessitates making practical and wise decisions during the hike and relying on oneself. Additionally, prioritizing safety measures before embarking on the hike is paramount. 

Therefore, before looking for the finest hiking trails, perusing the tips below on what to do before commencing the hike is highly recommended.

Things to do before a hiking trip

1) Find hiking buddies

When it comes to hiking, opting for a group hike is generally better, especially if you’re a beginner. Not only is it more enjoyable, but it’s also safer compared to hiking alone. When hiking with friends, you can lend a hand or offer assistance should someone get injured. Additionally, wild animals tend to avoid groups, so the chances of encountering them are low. 

However, it’s important to note that having too many people in your group can be counterproductive, making it harder to stick together on the trail and disrupting other hiking groups. For the best experience, having a group of four is recommended, but a maximum of 10-12 people can still work.

2) Research trail options

It’s crucial to conduct some research before selecting a hiking trail. This goes beyond merely choosing one of the best campsites near Manila or any other place. It also involves researching the trail’s level of difficulty. Ensure the hike suits your and your group’s abilities before deciding on a trail. If you’re a novice, it’s best to begin with more accessible trails before progressing to the advanced ones.

3) Know the weather conditions

To ensure a successful hiking experience, checking the weather forecast for the day of your hike is crucial. Remember that the weather in the mountains may differ from that in the city, and it can also change as you gain altitude. Therefore, obtaining weather predictions before embarking on your hike is recommended, especially if it involves high-elevation trails. This way, you can pack accordingly and make necessary adjustments to ensure your safety and comfort while on the trail.

4) Make sure you have enough time

Plan your hiking time and avoid rushing or finishing the hike at night to prevent accidents. Research the time required for the trail and add extra time for unexpected events. Don’t forget to consider the travel time from your starting point and the sunset time to ensure you’re not caught in darkness. If possible, finish your hike before sunset to be safe.

5) Read up on local regulations

When planning a hiking trip, be aware of the rules and regulations governing your trail. While most trails have a “leave no trace” policy, there may be additional guidelines that you should follow to ensure a positive experience for everyone. To do this, check the trail’s website or social media page to see if any permits or passes are required for access. This is also an opportunity to learn about the trail’s policies and restrictions, such as closed areas or limitations on pets or campfires.

6) Dress for the conditions 

When hiking, it’s not just about having the right shoes but also wearing the appropriate clothing for the weather conditions. Wear moisture-wicking and quick-drying clothes, such as nylon, polyester, or merino wool, and avoid cotton as it tends to absorb moisture. In addition, dressing in layers allows you to adjust your clothing as the temperature changes.

Even if you’ve checked the weather forecast beforehand, it’s important to remember that weather conditions can be unpredictable. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to prepare an extra layer of warm clothing and a rain jacket in your backpack, just in case.

7) Avoid getting lost

When hiking, you need to stay on the designated trail. To do this, make sure to bring a physical trail map as well as a trail description with you. If you’re using an electronic copy on your phone, it’s a good idea to have a USB power bank as a backup in case your phone runs out of battery. Additionally, having a GPS app can be helpful to quickly navigate back to the trail if you accidentally wander off.

Bottomline

When embarking on any outdoor adventure, being adequately prepared is essential. Whether you plan on hiking a trail or camping in the woods, taking the necessary precautions can make all the difference. And remember, keeping the tips mentioned above in mind will help ensure your hike is safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable.