There’s nothing quite like the rewarding experience of hiking and climbing. Being outside in nature, allowing yourself the opportunity to breathe some fresh air, seek out the wildlife, and just overall have a great, unforgettable time with your friends and family. IT’s easy to see why so many people love it.
However, it’s easy to get caught up in fun, and exciting aspects of this pastime, rather than remembering it can be incredibly dangerous if you’re not paying attention, and it may even cost you your life. Today, we’re going to explore the top ten hiking/climbing tips every guide wants you to know to help you stay happy and safe.
#1 – Be Fit and Healthy
This may seem like a no brainer, but you’d be surprised how so many trying hiking and climbing long distances because they think they can when they really can’t. Before partaking on long expeditions into nature, you need to make sure you have an appropriate fitness level that can take it.
#2 – Dress Smart
No, this doesn’t mean you need to scale the mountain in a suit and tie, but rather make sure you’re taking the time to pick out the clothes that are best suited to you and the conditions you’re climbing in.
For example, if you can find a waterproof hoodie that’s warm and comfortable as well as protecting you from the elements, this will save you so much weight instead of carrying multiple items of clothing which are only going to weigh you down.
#3 – Ascent Gradually
“Climatization is such an important aspect of climbing that many people forget, especially when they want to get to the summit as quickly as possible. When it comes to altitude, you need to make sure you’re ascending gradually and giving your mind and body the time it needs to adjust” shares Marie Grande, a travel writer for WriteMYX and Brit Student.
#4 – Hike with Purpose
While you might feel safe while walking on a trail, it’s important to remember that you can get lost much easier than you think, especially if you don’t know where you are and you think you want to start exploring, Have a purpose and goal when you hike to minimize this from happening.
#5 – Read the Books
There are a ton of books out there about hiking and climbing; some stories from people who have been involved in these adventures for decades who detail their experiences, whereas others are writing to help pass on the information and advice they’ve learned over the years.
There’s no denying that reading a couple of books on the subject, especially if you’re heading to the same location as an author, can help prepare you for individual things you may never have thought about before.
#6 – Pack the Right Food
Of course, you’re not going to take a ton of food with you on your expeditions because it’s only going to weigh you down. However, you will want to make sure you’re packing the right food that’s not only balanced in terms of weigh but gives you the nutrition and energy you need to stay happy and healthy.
#7 – Keep Everything Dry
“Imagine hiking all day in the rain only to find your sleeping bag is soaked through and drenched. Not only that, but all your clothes, gear and equipment have suffered the same fate. The easy way to avoid this from being a problem is to cover everything up properly!” shares Nick Anderson, a climbing specialist for Next Coursework and Australia2Write.
#8 – Have a Positive Attitude
While this one could be applied to any situation in life, if you’re trying to tackle a rock face that’s challenging with a defeatist attitude, you’re much more likely to make a mistake with “I can’t do it” running your head.
Instead, get psyched about what you’re doing and have fun doing it. Yeah, there are going to be some hard times, but you can get through it with perseverance. It will be worth it completely.
#9 – Don’t Forget Bug Spray
There’s nothing worse than getting into the depths of your adventure, only to realize you’re being swarmed by bugs and insects. With no way back any time soon, if you now have the realization you haven’t packed bug spray, you’re going to be filled with regret both physically and mentally.
To cut a long story short, make sure you don’t forget it!
Katrina Hatchett is a tech blogger at Academic Brits. She has been involved in various outdoor adventure projects where her main aim is to define project problems and inspire solutions, as well as to improve overall communication effectiveness within organizers and teams. Also, she writes for PhD Kingdom and Origin Writings, academic service.
