Hiking tips

Planning on hiking in the summer? Hiking is a good exercise and you will get a chance to explore the nature and unpolluted air of forest and mountains. If you are a first time hiker, then keep these useful tips in mind.

1. Plan on hiking with your friends or families. Let there be minimum three people during hiking
2. Inform someone where you going for hiking, someone who is not accompanying you for hiking
3. Make a checklist of essential items that you must carry
4. Select a hiking place that is suitable for everyone’s’ stamina. This way you don’t need to return back halfway because of a person who cannot hike trial.
5. Carry a compass and before commencing hiking, understand the directions.
6. Carry copies of map, note down important hiking points on the way, look for the points on your hike. It means you are not lost
7. Carry light but essential luggage. Your backpack must contain water, light food, flashlight/torch, pain killers, bug repellent, extra clothing, extra batteries, match box or lighter and first aid kit box
8. Carry extra bottle of water. Some hiking trails may have water sources. Refill bottles. It is important to be clear source of water before you start hiking. Keeping body hydrated helps you to climb.
9. Carry a whistle in your pocket and a signal mirror that comes handy in case you are left behind from the rest of the hikers or separated from the group.
10. Carry your cell phone. Most smartphones include a compass, GPS, flashlight and other useful apps. Use phone only if necessary and keep it as a back up for flashlight or for emergency.
11. Wear proper hiking shoes. Shoes must give enough support to feet and ankle.  Do not wear new shoes. Train and break new shoes with small hikes before your big hiking trip. This will give grip while climbing if you step on mud or nice soil or rocks. Your shoes must have waterproof quality. Wear socks and keep an extra pair of socks in backpack.
12. Carry foods that help you to recover from fatigue. Trail mix, nutrition bars, veg sandwich and few citrus candies are helpful.
13. Wear layers of cloths and raincoat if you are hiking a mountain that changes weather often. Do not wear cotton cloths.
14. Ladies, if needed carry proper precautionary items – sanitary pads, soap, extra set of cloth.
15. If you are hiking during rainy season, then there could be lightening. If you notice lightning avoid hiking above the tree line
16. Apply insect repellent and sunscreen if needed. Sometimes at high altitude Sunlight will be sharp and skin can burn.
17. Wear proper comfortable clothing, suited for hiking.
18. If someone gets injured assess your team situation. If the injury needs medical attention, have a person stay with injured hiker, then go get help. Don’t forget to mark the location where the victim is.
19. Do not throw bottles, plastic or food wraps in the wild. Carry a trash bag and collect all the trash. Bring it back and dispose in the trash.
20. Stick to trail, do not step on tender plants. In many places’ plants are fragile and will be trying to get back to life. Do not disturb vulnerable life.
21. If you need breaks, don’t hesitate to take breaks and breath to relax.
22. Walk at a pace that allows your to walk and talk steadily. This gives body proper oxygen supply and body will function efficiently.

Know your limits and stay positive all the way. Don’t say ‘I won’t be able to or I cannot’. If you believe in yourself, it gives confidence and encourages other hikers to continue hiking. When you reach the end goal, you will really appreciate the effort.

Image: www.WerIndia.com