Safety Tips to Observe When Hiking

Hiking is one of the best outdoor activities that one can do to explore the wilderness and be one with nature. Hiking is fun and exciting, but it requires adequate preparation and keeping yourself safe while on the trail. Here are a few safety tips to observe when hiking.

SET YOURSELF UP WITH THE RIGHT ESSENTIALS

Whether going on a short day hike or multi-day trek, it is best to equip yourself with the right essentials for hiking. There are 10 hiking essentials that you need to carry with you. This includes the following:

• Navigation tools (GPS, map, and compass)
• First aid kit
• Water
• Extra food (energy bars, vacuum-sealed meals, and nuts)
• Sunscreen/sunglasses
• Insulating layers (jacket, raincoat, extra clothes)
• Flashlight/headlamp
• Fire supplies (matches, lighters)
• Multi-tool quality knife (for food preparation, repairs, and emergencies)
• Emergency shelter (tent, space blanket)

RESEARCH THE TRAIL

For a successful hiking experience, it is best to do your research on the location. You can also consult a park ranger to give you necessary information about the area, what to expect, and what you might encounter along the way. Are there steep slopes? Will you be climbing up on slippery hills? This can help minimize unwanted surprises and also helps you decide if extra essentials are needed.

WEAR PROPER GEAR

Wear properly fitting hiking boots with a good grip and cushioning to protect your feet, prevent blisters, and avoid issues like rolling an ankle. Also, opt for hiking socks that are made from wool or synthetic. These are specifically made to ease friction and wick away moisture.

BE WARY OF STRANGERS

Hiking is a good opportunity to meet people that share the same interest as yours. Try to be friendly and at the same time, be cautious. If you are alone hiking and something feels suspicious or uncomfortable, trust your instincts. Try to distance yourself and inform reliable personnel as soon as possible.

BRING AT LEAST ONE FRIEND

Hiking alone can be fun but you might want to consider bringing someone with you. This helps eliminate the risk of being stranded alone and at the same time allows you to strengthen your bond and create precious memories.

HAVE AN EMERGENCY PLAN

You will never know when emergencies happen. Bring with you a fully charged phone and a portable charger. Keep emergency numbers at hand – familiarize yourself with the park’s emergency number. If there is no reliable cell service in the area, bring with you a satellite messaging device or personal locator beacon that can be used to ping satellites in emergencies.

KNOW YOUR LIMITS

As much as you want to make the most out of the hiking experience, you need to be realistic and do not go beyond your capabilities. Prepare yourself as you must – do cardio exercises, strengthen your feet and ankles, and try walking on a rough road and uneven ground as practice. Make hiking more of an experience rather than making it a race to the top quickly.

Proper planning is important before going on a hike. Keep these safety tips in mind and have a fun and enjoyable hiking experience.