13 Common Hiking Mistakes That Could Ruin Your Trip
One simple way to get in touch with nature while getting away from the day-to-day grind is hiking. There is a built-in thrill to stumbling onto a trail behind some leaf piles, soaking in sweeping views, or feeling the crunch of leaves under your feet.
Despite the best efforts of even the most experienced hikers, adventures can go sideways for avoidable reasons. Fortunately, with a little advance planning, you can avoid these traps and keep your hike pleasurable throughout.
Packing The Wrong Gear
Carrying too much or too little gear can ruin your hiking trip. Overpacking can make it a heavy weight to carry, and under-packing can easily result in running out of essentials such as water, food, and first aid items. Take only what you need, including the right clothes, a good first aid kit, and a dependable map or GPS.
Ignoring Weather Reports
The weather is a recipe for disaster if it’s underestimated. Storms can quickly follow sunny skies in the morning. Check updated forecasts before you go out and wear layers to be comfortable no matter what. A sudden drop in temperature can cause hypothermia even in seemingly mild conditions, especially at higher altitudes.
Wearing the Wrong Footwear
If you wear uncomfortable shoes, you will turn a scenic hike into a nightmare in a heartbeat. For the prevention of slipping, blisters, or ankle twists, proper hiking boots or trail shoes are absolutely critical – broken in beforehand.
Skipping Hydration and Nutrition
Waiting till you’re thirsty to drink water can be dangerous as dehydration is every hiker’s enemy. The general rule of thumb is half a liter of water an hour of moderate activity. Combine that with energy-rich snacks like nuts or protein bars to keep fueled.
Not Telling Anyone Your Plans
Failing to share your itinerary with a friend or family member is a very dangerous oversight on remote trails. It’s good to have someone know your route and when you are expected to return in case something goes wrong, as rescue efforts will be quicker and easier.
Relying Solely on Technology
Smartphones and GPS devices are great tools, but they’re not fail-proof. Batteries will die, signals drop, and electronics can fail when you need them the most. Never leave home without a paper map and the ability to use it. Technology is helpful, but it should never take the place of basic navigation skills.
Starting Too Late in the Day
Starting late means you are racing against the clock — and usually the sun. While hiking after dark is more dangerous, it’s also less fun without the views. Start hiking early enough so you arrive before sunset, and always carry a flashlight just in case.
Ignoring Wildlife Safety
Dangerous encounters can occur if you feed wildlife or don’t store your food properly. Bears and raccoons will become aggressive if attracted to human food. Follow local guidelines for food storage and keep your distance from all animals, no matter how cute they look.
Skipping a Warm-Up
If you don’t stretch before a challenging hike, you might strain your muscles and joints. Even just a couple of minutes of light stretching will help loosen up the body and prevent injury. So think of it as prepping your body for what lies ahead.
Leaving Trash on the Trail
Not only is littering bad for the environment, but it also ruins it for everyone else. Keep track of your trash and hold onto them until you can properly dispose of them. 9 out of 10 outdoor visitors believe protecting natural areas is essential to a quality hiking experience, according to the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics.
Overestimating Your Fitness
When you’re determined to hike up a tough trail, it’s easy to overestimate your stamina. Being in the position to bite off more than you can chew may leave you exhausted and stranded. Pick trails suited to your experience and fitness levels to avoid burning out, or injury.
Forgetting Sun Protection
UV rays can be dangerous to your skin even on cloudy days. Not only is sunburn uncomfortable, but it will also increase your risk of skin cancer. It’s best to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect you from the sun’s rays.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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