This blog will explain what not to do, along with what to bring with you when preparing for a hike. Continue reading to learn some of the biggest mistakes people make when hiking.
Not checking the weather before going on a hike
Check the weather forecast before a hike to ensure your safety and enjoyment!
Imagine trekking in the woods on a 2-mile hike and the sky suddenly transforming from clear blue to a canvas of dark gray.
This catastrophic event could be easily avoided by checking the weather forecast the day before deciding to embark on a hike.
It is important to check the forecast to know the high and low temperatures of the day for preparing what gear to bring to stay warm, or cool, depending on the time of year.
If in doubt, make the smart choice and choose another day to go on a hike.
Forgetting bug spray
Do not forget the bug spray! Bug spray prevents allergic reactions- insect bites can lead to allergic reactions which could be mild irritation, severe swelling, or in some cases, anaphylaxis.
Bug spray can easily lower the chances of experiencing any allergic reactions. It is an essential, but commonly forgotten, item to bring on a hike.
Keep bug spray in your car to avoid the complications of not having any handy!
Not bringing enough food/water
No matter the length of the hike, it is key to bring snacks. Bringing a sufficient amount of food and water is important to maintain your energy levels and to stay hydrated.
Hiking is physically demanding, and without nourishment, you may experience fatigue, dizziness, or even dehydration.
To know how much food and water to bring, try experimenting with different amounts based on the length of the hike.
Good options for snacks to bring on hikes include high-energy foods that are easily portable and will not spoil such as energy bars, granola, nuts, or beef jerky.
Wearing the wrong shoes
Wearing the proper shoes will allow for more comfort when hiking, enhancing your overall hiking performance.
Do not wear open-toed shoes or shoes that do not have any foot support.
Instead, do wear closed-toed shoes, preferably hiking shoes, that have strong ankle support.
Some of the best brands for quality hiking boots include Merrell, Danner, and Salomon. These are not the only options for good shoes for hiking but are good examples of what to look for.
Overestimating their abilities
One of the biggest mistakes that could be made when picking a trail to hike is overestimating. To avoid this, make sure you are aware of your physical skills and abilities.
Reading reviews on hikes is helpful, but is not enough to assess your capabilities to complete the hike, as the reviews do not outline what your body is able to handle.
To avoid this, be honest with yourself about the duration and skillset of the hike that you are able to complete.
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