How to Plan a Hiking Trip for Beginners

Hiking is a great outdoor workout for both mental and physical benefits. It is low-impact hence appropriate for all age groups. The impact of hiking on personal growth is beyond adventure and fun. That’s why it is among the top priorities in the best ways to spend time outdoors. But it’s just walking, you think? Well, hiking is not only the typical walk on a treadmill or on your way to work. Hiking involves thrilling and unpredictable encounters that make the whole activity fun. 

However, if you’ve never been on a hiking trip before, worry not. Take a look below at how to plan for a hiking trip for beginners. 

Get a Hiking Partner 

You can ask a pro to accompany and show you tips for successful hiking. Or, you can have a beginner friend like you to join and try something new. Conversely, if you don’t know any willing hiker, you can search online for hiking clubs and join one on their next adventure. It is advisable always to have the company of an experienced hiker who will lend a hand when you get hurt. 

Select a Hiking Gear 

Luckily, hiking doesn’t require complicated gear, like swimming. You only need just essential items for the adventure, and you are ready to go. Such hiking gear involves; 

Footwear: Trail boots/sneakers and socks. 

Hiking clothes: They should be of light, quick-to-dry material like polyester. A vest and a pair of leggings or pants should be comfortable to walk for an unusually long distance. Also, since the weather is usually unpredictable, you should pack some heavy jacket or fleece. Remember to carry rainwear just in case it looks like rain from the forecast. 

Backpack, first aid kit, and water holder: Have a sizeable bag to carry all the hiking gear, water, and food. Carry a lot of water in a water bottle to sustain the entire hiking trip. A first aid kit is essential anytime you are outdoors, mostly out in the woods. You might hit a rock, protruding branches, and even a snake bite. 

Luckily you don’t have to run from shop to shop buying these items. Instead, you can get a variety of designs at suwanneebrand.com delivered to your doorstep. 

Begin small 

Because you are just starting, do not overdo it. Look for a short trail that you will be comfortable hiking with any weight on your back. Define the amount of time you have on your hands. Is it a whole day or a few hours? Also, bear in mind that there will be elevation gain and loss on your hiking trip. You don’t want to indulge on a hiking trip that you will quit halfway. 

Inform Someone of Where You Will Be 

Let someone not on the hiking trip know of your whereabouts. Inform them of the time you expect to be back and what to do if you are way past that time. Carry along with you a device that can call even when you are not under any network available. You should be able to call for help in case of any emergency. 

There’s so much fun in hiking; therefore, don’t hold back. Remember to leave no trace by not littering around. Protect the environment for the next hikers to enjoy a great trail.