5 Things To Do Few Days Before Going For A Hike
When we mention anything about going hiking, there is a lot of chitter-chatter about being prepared for it.
Wondering what exactly does being prepared for hiking mean?
Well, to keep it simple, it means some basic guidelines that must be followed so that you stay safe during your hike and it turns out to be one of your most memorable experiences.
So, to help you save time and efforts, we have already enlisted a few preparation tips before actually hitting off the trail.
Follow these and you definitely won’t regret it!
- Start walking and exercising, if not already
While this may seem like one of the most obvious things to do, it’s really surprising that most people still don’t do it. The best way to prep up your body for such rigorous activity is to start walking (at the least) regularly.
If you couple it with regular exercising (of 15-20 minutes), that’d be the best!
For exercises, it’s great if you stick to lunges, leg curls, and band walks.
This way, you’ll be able to build your stamina. You obviously wouldn’t want to halt every half an hour amid your trek and grab exasperated eyeballs, do you?
P.S. You can also make leg-based cardio a part of your routine and even take the staircase whenever possible. Ditch those escalators today!
- Keep weather-appropriate dress ready
Before hitting the trail, it’s best to do some research and check the weather conditions (whether it be a single day trek or a multi-day trek).
After carefully taking note of it, make sure you dress accordingly. If the weather demands woolen clothing or additional layers, wear it and pack an extra jacket too.
Be wary of hot, humid, and monsoon conditions. That being said, do carry an umbrella and raincoat.
The idea is to prepare and equip yourself for ALL conditions.
- Pack snacks ( A Lot of them)
Any physical activity makes you sweat and increases your appetite. Similar is the case with hiking.
So, it’s essential to pack a lot of snacks for your hiking trip. Do some research and buy some of the most nutritious and purposeful snacking items.
That being said, investing in fruits (that won’t squish obviously), dried fruits, protein bars, potato chips, trail mix, and others such is a good option.
Do make sure to carry a generous quantity so that you can share with a friend who forgot to carry his/her snacks. (Because sharing is caring! )
In fact, start consuming such healthy snacks a few days prior to going hiking. When coupled with exercising and walking, it will affect the body even more.
P.S. Don’t forget to carry as much water as you can. Staying hydrated at all times is the key.
- Prepare your backpack
The last thing you’d want to do on the day of leaving for hiking is to pack your backpack.
Doesn’t this sound like the worst nightmare for you?
It surely is for us.
No matter how much time you have before leaving your place, it is ALWAYS ideal to pack your backpack a day or two PRIOR.
Because you always tend to forget something or the other when you pack hastily.
In the spirit of that, list down the essentials days prior to packing so that even the slightest chance of missing out on anything is eliminated.
Have a look at our hiking essentials checklist:
- Snacks and Water
- First aid kit
- Sun protection
- Flashlight
- Map
- Compass
- Other tactical gear
- Invest in a good pair of shoes
Last but not least, check if your existing Danner boots or other tactical shoes are conditioned to meet your upcoming hiking requirements.
If not, do some research and buy a pair of the best hiking shoes days prior to your hike. Do not wait to wear them on the ‘D-day’ itself. Instead, wear them and get comfortable with them well before.
You obviously wouldn’t want to experience shoe bites and blisters during your hike!
Follow Us!