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6 Essential Hiking Tips

Older Couple Resting During Hike with BackpacksHiking is one of the fun outdoor adventures you can do in Orlando. There are many physical and psychological benefits of hiking. These include a reduction in stress levels and improvement in your physical fitness. A fun trek starts by planning for the experience as well as preparing for anything unexpected. Is this your first time hiking? Then you should keep some things in mind before you go off on your adventure. These hiking tips are sure to make each and every hike enjoyable.

Tip #1: Choose the Right Trail

If you’ve never been on a hike — or it’s been a while — it is strongly recommended that you choose a fairly easy hike for your first time out. Go for a hike that is a bit shorter in distance than you usually do when you go for walks on a flat surface. Also, pick a hike without any abrupt elevation changes. For an inexperienced hiker, steep inclines could bring some troubles.

Tip #2: Pack the Right Gear

Bringing the wrong gear is a big mistake most new hikers make. You must make sure that you are hydrated during your hike. You can also protect yourself by wearing light, moisture-wicking clothing that covers your arms and legs. It will not only help prevent sunburns and insect bites, but appropriate clothing will protect you from scrapes and scratches, too. Don’t forget to wear a good pair of sneakers or hiking boots, and bring a hat! A backpack with snacks & a few extra items of clothing will be a lifesaver. Don’t forget to bring more water than you think you need, too. These are around ten essential items you should have on you when you go on a hike.

Tip #3: Bring a Map

Getting lost can make your hiking trip really unpleasant. A map or a GPS device will help you make your way through the area. Understand the map and orient yourself to the location before you start hiking. If the hiking trail is marked, stay on the course. If you are planning to use your phone or another device, be sure to bring a backup battery. You can also put your phone in airplane mode to make the battery’s charge last longer.

Tip #4: Time Your Hike Right

A lot of hikers start their journey early in the morning. It is safer to hike when daytime temperatures are not very high. To make your hike a safe one, check local weather reports to know how long you will be on your trek. Be conservative with your estimates – hiking is not a race. Hike at a comfortable pace so that you will have enough energy to complete your course without overexerting yourself.

Tip #5: Use Good Hiking Etiquette

Hiking on a busy trail will be easier if you follow the basic etiquette rules. Hikers going uphill always have the right of way. Look out for bikes and horses so you can move out of their way if needed. Say hello to other hikers as you pass them, and be polite by avoiding loud conversations if you are hiking with friends. You may bring your dog along, but make sure it is on a leash all the time. Bring home all the trash you accumulate during the trek. Granola bar wrappers, empty water bottles, and so on should never be left on the trail.

Tip #6: Use the Buddy System

The last of our hiking tips is to take someone along on your hike, so someone can assist you if there is an emergency. In the event that you do hike alone, make sure someone knows where you are going and what time you plan to back. This information will prove very important in case you get lost.

These simple hiking tips can give you a safe and exciting adventure.

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