Going Hiking Soon? Here Are Some Essential Tips To Make the Most of It

Jake Melara
Jake Melara

Fall has just begun, and it has ushered in what many think might be the best time of the year to go hiking; it is not too hot, and it is not too cold out, so you can get out and fully enjoy the great outdoors without too much hassle with kit and the weather getting in the way.

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Hiking is not just an absolutely amazing way to enjoy the great outdoors and take in nature’s wonders that are all around us, but it is also a fantastic way to get into great shape. Hiking can be an excellent workout for people of all fitness levels, ability, shapes, and sizes. While hiking is great fun, there are also some precautions we should all take to ensure that we stay safe and happy throughout our hike. What follows are some essential safety tips that any person considering going hiking should definitely keep in mind.

One of the most crucial things that any person about to embark on a hike should do is to be sure that other people know where you are going to be. Many people will go on a hike and not think to tell other people where they are going and how long they expect to be in case anything happens to them. Unfortunately, there have been too many examples of people succumbing to accident and injury, sometimes even death because something happened on their hike and they had not told anyone else where they were going, so no one could get help to them in time. There are even movies made about people this has happened to. It is a scary notion to imagine that something may go wrong on your hike, but it could happen and being prepared by telling others where you will be and when you’re due back is an essential thing to do.

There are even movies made about people this has happened to. It is a scary notion to imagine that something may go wrong on your hike, but it could happen and being prepared by telling others where you will be and when you’re due back is an essential thing to do.

 

Another thing to be aware of is the weather. While many people may not want to change their plans or cancel their trip if the weather does look like it’s going to turn bad, the safest thing to do may be to actually postpone the trip for a later time when the weather is going to be better. Hiking can be a very physical activity, often over rough terrain and even though you might be competent outdoors the weather can play havoc with your ability to navigate, visibility and safety. So keep an eye on what the weather is it ok weather for the trip you have planned? If it’s not it’s highly advisable that you postpone your trip, it’s better safe than sorry.

Another amazing tip is to pack the right supplies that you need. Depending on what type of hike you are going on and how long you are going to be out for, the supplies that you will need will vary. There are certain things that a person should bring on just about any hike, and that is adequate food, water, and a compass (you should know how to use it as well).

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Cam DiCecca

These are things that are not only necessary for any hike but also extremely useful in most situations. You should also be sure to bring layers of clothing – you are going to want to have enough clothes to keep warm but not to wear too many at one time so that you get too hot. If you are choosing to stay overnight, it would also be extremely prudent to bring a blanket or pillow.

These are things that are not only necessary for any hike but also extremely useful in most situations. You should also be sure to bring layers of clothing – you are going to want to have enough clothes to keep warm but not to wear too many at one time so that you get too hot. If you are choosing to stay overnight, it would also be extremely prudent to bring a blanket or pillow.

It is very important before you go hiking that you look to see what wildlife is in the area that you are going hiking in. In some areas, bears are common, and it would be smart of you to look and see how to handle a bear and what to do to keep it from coming near you or potentially harming you. Also, if you are allergic to bees stings and other biting insects be careful of that too. Just fully research what animals are most likely to be in the area of the hike and find out what to do to keep yourself safe.

Ryan Grewell
Ryan Grewell

If by chance you do happen to get lost, be sure not to get too stressed and panic. You should have a plan of what you would do, depending on the time of day and what you have with you. Many people will choose between making a shelter to stay in, other people will make a fire so that they can get the attention of a search and rescue team, and some people will look for essential survival basics such as water or food. Preferably be the person that does all of these things.

Also, if you are truly lost be sure that anything that you have on that is bright is on the top so that you are easy to spot; the rescue crew will not have to look as hard for you. Be sure not to stay too hidden so that it will also be extremely hard for any person to find you.

Hiking is a great endeavor; it can be an amazing time and a great way to experience the best that our planet has to offer. The way to ensure that you are enjoying it the most is to be sure to follow the necessary safety precautions before going and while you’re out there.

fmssolution

fmssolution is one of the authors writing for Outdoor Revival