To connect and understand our environment and nature more closely, hiking is one of the great adventure activities. Spending more time with nature, breathing fresh air, are the some reason that forced us to participate in a hike.

Nowadays people are very concerned about their health and healthy lifestyle. They often subscribe to the gym or do some exercise, some do activities like morning walks, jogging or cycling to stay fit and healthy. These activities are undoubtedly very useful. Hiking is a combination of all these activities, and it also examines your limits. Choose your hike wisely depending on your physical and mental health. Walking on a flat trail or climbing a few kilometers is always upon you.

Most of us love to hike in some remote location, and it brings enchanting views, and a hike is always fun. On the other hand some unexpected natural or unnatural factors can bring instability and unpredictability in your hike. And this factors makes hiking and trekking challenging and adventurous to us.

However, if you are planning to hike for first time in your life, it is very important to choose the right trail and right gear that suites you. Here are some tips you should consider, before you hike.

Choose The Right Trail

There are huge options of hikes for you to choose from in India. Every trails are very beautiful and different from each others. The most challenging part is to choose one of them depending on your limits. As I mentioned earlier hiking can be unpredictable and unstable, so it is good to be prepared both physically and mentally. So, choose a hiking trail that gives you amazing views, but also one that is not difficult for you to hike. Climbing and walking on flat terrain are two different things and in general, the first one is more difficult than you can imagine.

The best practice for your first trek is to choose a short hiking trail, which can be completed in a day or two, without climbing too many hills or mountains. Check your limits and see how far you cane push your limit. So, you will be aware of which hiking trail you will choose for your next adventure. Gather information about the length of the trail, the hardest part of hiking, how long it will take, and what to expect. You can easily find all information’s on internet. We advise you to choose a beginner trail for you first hiking experience, and test your limits.

Find the Right Gear for You:

If you start with a simple hiking trail, it will not take more than a day or two to do it. So, depending on the weather conditions and trail conditions, you may need a little hiking gear. Choosing clothes The most important thing about hiking as a beginner. We are guiding you to choose right clothes, so that you never have to face any difficulty on any parts of your hike.

Well, first thing first, we as a hike or trek organizer we strictly prohibit shirt, pant, and jackets made with jeans for all of our trek. We suggest you not to carry a single piece of jeans clothes as those may uncomfortable while you are on a hike. Instead, pack your bag with a lightweight cloth and better if you have a waterproof cloth. In every activities like hiking and trekking comes with effort and you may sweat in extreme cold also. Quick-drying clothes will help you to avoid colds and coughs. Choose comfortable cotton pants and long sleeves shirts.

Your shoes are the another important gear for your hike. Choose a pair of comfortable hiking boots that will help you for long walks. Try to get a shoe which has an ankle support. Which will protect you from sprained ankles.

Pack Your Bag Correctly

No matter which trek you take from 1 day to more than a week, you are advised to keep all the necessary things handy. Choose a light sturdy backpack with enough space for your luggage.

Drinking sufficient water is very important on every hike to prevent dehydration. Take two re-usable bottles of one liter each, refill from a clean water source on the trail when needed.

Also, take some snacks and dried fruits and chocolates with you, especially for the trek of more than 3 days. If you have some extra room in your backpack keep some extra layers of clothes. For sudden weather changes and rain, it is better to take a Panchoo and Backpack Cover. Keep your backups light and take only the essentials, unnecessary overpacking can make the path more difficult for you.

Prepare Yourself According to the weather

Check regular weather reports to get ready for your hike. Also keep an eye on the weather for the last few years. It gives you the option to plan your hike at the right time to enhance your experience. In addition to the necessary clothes, socks and boots, also take some useful gears

If you can’t reach to your camp before evening, you must have a flashlight or headlamp with you. You should have sunscreen and sunglasses with you for all types of weather conditions. If you are hiking in winter keep cold cream and lip balm. Also, make sure you have some first aid supplies for some minor injuries.

Inform Your Family or Friends About Your Adventure

Unexpected things can happen and something can go wrong any time on your hike. Even though you have the map and you know the trail very well, you can get confused and lose track. Some expert hikers have encountered such accidents at times.

So, tell your family members, parents or friends where you are going and how long it will take. Nowadays it is easy to communicate with rescuers via your phone, but in such cases it is better to have a backup plan. In some cases, if you do not return within the specified time, your relatives may report the matter to the authorities. However, on almost all tracks, local authorities keep track of hikers’ information.

Hiking for the first time can seem like a daunting task. Here are some tips to help you prepare yourself for this adventure and enhance your experience. Choose an easy, well connected and popular hiking trail. Push your limits to complete the hike, but don’t push beyond your limits. Pack light weight clothing, comfortable hiking boots and just the essentials. Inform at least someone about your adventure, and, last but not the least keep your Id proof, or Passport or visa handy.