How To Be Safe When Hiking
- Elisabeth Caraballo
- Sep 1, 2019
- 2 min read
Hiking can be a great way of seeing the world around you no matter where you go for your hike, you’ll likely come away with some fantastic memories and plenty of photos too. However, there is certainly an element of danger to this type of excursion, so here’s how to be safe when hiking.
Always Be Prepared
For any hike, no matter what the length may be, it’s worth always to be prepared. From calculating the route to ensuring you have a map or guide to where you’re hiking so that you don’t get lost. There’s nothing better than being prepared and having plans readily available should you want to cut your hike short or take an alternative route. Pre-plan everything in as much detail as you can, and you’ll likely not make too many mistakes or come into any trouble during your hike. You can visit outdoorcommand.com for some inspiration.
Hike in a Group
As much as it may seem fun to hike alone or as a couple, you should always hike in a group. Hiking on your own can be dangerous because you have no back-up to assist you if you find yourself to be in danger and you have no way of alerting anyone if you’re injured or lost. The same goes for being in a couple. If one of you got hurt, the other might get lost from having to try and find help.
Take Breaks When Needed
It’s important to take plenty of breaks when going on a long hike because your body may not be used to the length of walking that’s required. It’s also a way of helping you take a moment to assess where you are and where you need to be going. Not only that but on a hike, you can be so focused on completing it that you forget to take in your surroundings. Hikes can be a wonderful way of seeing mother nature in all its glory. Aim to take a break at the end of every hour, even if it’s just two minutes to catch your breath and to refuel with some water or food.
Pack Plenty of Food and Fluid
Speaking of food, it’s beneficial to overpack on food and fluids. You never know what might go wrong or if there’s a situation where you need more food and drink. You want to be able to pack enough food and water to survive for a few days. Even if your hike is only several hours long, there may be a point at which you have to sleep overnight and so you may need supplies to see you through for a few extra hours. Your body can survive a long time with no access to food, but that’s not the case for water, so pack plenty of it.
Hiking is a great thing to do on your travels, but like everything, preparation and practicing safety is very important. Don’t go on hikes without a group and be sure to pack the right stuff needed for your hike.
