What is hiking?
Hiking can be described as essentially a ‘lengthy stroll in rural areas’.
In terms of progressive thinking, the statement above implies that there is a wide variety of hike lengths available, ranging from brief strolls in nearby open areas to the most extreme option of walking across a whole continent over several months.
Long-distance hiking trails that have gained popularity for thru-hiking include the Appalachian Trail and the Pacific Crest Trail in the United States, with the latter running from the Canadian border down to the Mexican border in a north to south direction.
What is the difference between hiking and trekking?
Hiking and trekking are sometimes used interchangeably by most people. However, if someone mentions they are going trekking, it suggests a longer and more challenging hike compared to the average, indicating a more strenuous experience.
In certain countries, there exist varied terms for hiking. For instance, in the UK, it is occasionally referred to as ‘Rambling’, whereas in New Zealand, hiking is commonly known as ‘Tramping’.
How to get into hiking
One of the advantages of hiking is that you can begin and embark on your initial hike without requiring extensive preparation or a lot of hiking equipment.
For beginners who want to start hiking, it can be easy to begin by choosing a hike on a well-known local trail and spending 15 to 30 minutes enjoying nature by walking at a comfortable pace. After this time, simply turn around and hike back the way you came. Opting for out-and-back hikes like this is recommended for novice hikers since it allows flexibility and does not require committing to a long or mandatory round-trip distance.
One approach to getting involved in hiking is by initiating hiking with friends. This could involve friends who are already experienced hikers or individuals who express an interest in starting hiking, allowing for a shared journey.
If you do not have anyone nearby to go hiking with, you can still learn more about hiking and join group hiking trips by locating your local REI or specialized outdoors store.
Hiking Tips for Beginners
1. Wear appropriate hiking clothes
The key guideline for hikers regarding clothing is to avoid wearing cotton.
When hiking, it is important for clothing to be lightweight, breathable, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying. This ensures comfort during hikes and prevents sweat and moisture from causing discomfort and chafing.
Hiking clothes, especially hiking pants, should be made from stretch fabric for better comfort. Additionally, good hiking attire should provide sun protection to minimize the risk of getting sunburned through the clothing.
2. Buy comfortable hiking boots (or hiking shoes) and socks
The difference between a great hike and a bad one depends on having a well-fitting pair of boots. Therefore, it is worth investing in a high-quality pair that you find comfortable for long hikes. For new hikers, purchasing their first pair of boots or hiking shoes will likely be the most expensive part of starting this activity. However, with regular use and proper care, these boots will prove to be a valuable investment.
3. Look at the weather conditions before heading out
Before embarking on your day hike, it is crucial to check the weather forecast at your hiking destination to ensure suitable conditions and assist in determining the appropriate hiking gear for your trip.
If you anticipate extreme or unfavorable weather conditions, you have the chance to alter your hiking plans either by choosing a different day or opting for an alternative location.
Before you set off for a hike in the mountains, it is always worth checking the weather, as it can be very different from the nice weather at home due to the mountains’ tendency to have more extreme and changeable weather.
4. Plan your hike and research the area
One more essential tip for novice hikers is to conduct research about the hiking trail you have selected beforehand.
When preparing for a hike, it is important to think through the process systematically. This involves considering factors such as the distance you plan to cover, being aware of the weather conditions and overall climate in the vicinity, as well as approximating the duration of your hike and determining the necessary equipment to bring along.
If you plan to go hiking in a state or national park, it is highly recommended that you conduct research on your intended hike and the park’s vicinity. This can be done by visiting their website and contacting or visiting a ranger station to inquire about the trail’s conditions and difficulty levels.
5. Know what to bring on a hike and pack it in a daypack
In the hiking community, there exists a concept known as the ‘Ten Essentials’, which outlines the necessary categories of hiking equipment. This allows individuals to effectively prepare for a day hike by determining what items to pack.
It may appear overwhelming to have to consider packing numerous items in your hiking backpack, but don’t fret. Once you have collected the necessary hiking equipment for your initial hike, you are mostly prepared for future hikes of a similar nature.
Additional tips to dial in backpacking essentials for beginners
In order to meet your backpacking needs, we have provided a concise list of essential items. You may click the links to access more detailed information on these items.
1. Suggestions of food options for backpacking menus, including freeze dried choices, as well as tips for selecting food.
Unless you desire cold meals and beverages throughout your trip, it is necessary to have cookware and a stove.
3. Additional necessities for an outdoor kitchen while backpacking.
4. Equipment for treating water and its transportation.
A tent that is suitable for backpacking purposes.
A backpacking sleep system consists of a sleeping bag and liner (or a backpacking quilt) and a sleeping pad.
The combination of hiking boots and hiking socks (the powerful duo)
8. Appropriate clothing for specific climates and weather conditions.
The backpack used for backpacking.
10. Poles used for trekking.
Remember to bring mosquito repellent!
Depending on your choice of backpacking location, it may be necessary to have a bear canister or another type of bear resistant food storage option.
For beginners, are a teddy bear and pillow considered backpacking essentials?
I have no comment on the teddy bear, but if you bring a backpacking pillow with you while camping, it could make a significant difference in the quality of your sleep in the tent.
