The Fundamental Guide To Safe Hiking Outdoors

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The Fundamental Guide To Safe Hiking Outdoors

Overview

As a passionate outdoors person, outdoor safety is at the top of my plan; it should be at the top of my priority list. Much more if I go solo! Always remember, enjoying hiking outdoors comes with a great risk! So, planning and putting together a safety guide, researching appropriate hiking trails, and selecting the ultimate wilderness gear are a must! So, enjoy nature safely and responsibly with the Fundamental Guide to Safe Hiking Outdoors, laid out below!

1. Researching Appropriate Hiking Trails For Your Age Level

Researching Appropriate Hiking Trails For Your Age Level

This is a particularly important step! Researching the hiking trail in advance will get you better prepared. Let us take this list you need to consider when doing your research, and always keep your survival kit handy. Every hiker at any age level knows well.

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a. Check the trail’s difficulty level and elevation gain to make sure it matches your fitness level.

b. Check the trail’s recent reviews online, as well as any updates on its conditions, closures, or potential hazards.

c. Understand the type and nature of the terrain – is it rocky, sandy, wet, or forested? This will help you prep for it.

2. Check Weather Reports

a. Always check the weather forecasts in advance and try to be aware of any potential changes throughout the day or days if it is a multi-day hike. Thus,    you can be guided accordingly on what to prepare.

            b. When weather changes are expected, and if it is a guided trail hike, guides most likely are well aware of this potential happening. However, if you are hiking solo, you had better stay put!

3. Suitable Gear and Clothing

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It is important to pack appropriate clothing gear most suitable for the hiking trail conditions, especially the terrain and duration. But do not assume these are all and the only things you will need. These are the basics. Check this out!

            a. Hiking poles can be helpful on some trails or for some people.

            b. Jacket or windbreaker, a waterproof one is most desirable.

            c. A down jacket is best for hiking in cold weather.

            d. Insulating layers such as fleece and thermals.

            e. Sun protection such as a hat and sunscreen

            f. Sturdy hiking shoes

            g. Do not forget your action camera or other electronic devices.

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4. Packing Outdoor Safety Essentials

Make sure to include the following items to carry on your hike. Check this out for your safety purposes!

            a. Your First-Aid kit - These include bandages, antiseptic wipes, blister treatment, muscle relaxant, and any personal medication. If you want, a ready-packed first aid kit is also available.

            b. Navigation tools - These include a map of the hiking trail (if possible, a physical one), a compass, or a GPS app.

            c. Lighting - such as a headlamp, flashlight (along with some extra batteries just in case you get caught out after dark on the trail), or lighter or box of matches safely stored in waterproof containers to start a fire.

            d. Extra food and water.

            e. Multi-tool or Swiss knife.

            f. Emergency whistle, and

            g. Space blanket to stay warm if needed.

5. Hydration and Nutritional Advice

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            a. Drink water in small amounts but regularly, even if you are not feeling thirsty.                            Dehydration can hit you when you least expect it.

            b. Invest in a hydration bladder if you can get your hands on one for easy access.                        If that is not possible, make sure to place your water bottle somewhere that you can access easily.

            c. Do not forget to pack ORS sachets (oral rehydration solutions) or electrolyte tablets/drinks for when dehydration kicks in.

            d. Pack high-energy snacks like nuts, dried fruits, or energy bars.

6. Preserving Your Physical Energy On The Trail

           a. Start your hike at a comfortable, steady pace. You can slowly increase your pace as you warm up, but keep it at a steady pace to avoid wearing yourself out.

           b. Always stop for short breaks regularly and remember to hydrate and not just rest. If possible, aim for cool shaded areas for your short breaks to cool down, especially hiking in hot weather.

           c. On the trail, practice-controlled breathing to maintain your energy levels.

           d. For longer hikes, bring along easy-to-pack meals like sandwiches or salads. 

7. Wildlife and Environmental Safety Do’s & Don’ts

            a. DO: Always keep a safe distance from all wildlife – wild animals are not to be petted.

            b. DO: Always know and learn about the wildlife on trails you will be hiking and what to do in specific wildlife encounters.

            c. DON’T: Make ANY LOUD noise while hiking to avoid surprising wild animals! If you do, talk in whispers. 

            d. DON’T feed animals – this can alter their behavior, potentially making them more dangerous.

            e. DON’T throw organic waste on the trail. This can alter the ecosystem. It can also alter animals' behavior, thus attracting them to trails, making it more dangerous for other hikers.

8. Handling Environmental Hazards

            a. Keep away from ledges, especially if you are hiking in wet or windy conditions. 

            b. Use your hands for more balance, especially on wet rocks when traversing on them or looking for other safe passes.

            c. Do not cross or attempt to cross a river if the water level is higher than usual or if the flow is strong. If you are in doubt, stay put or look for other safe passes.

            d. Watch your step, especially if you are walking on loose gravel, rocky, muddy,                           or uneven surfaces.

            e. Take slow, small steps carefully. It is best to use hiking sticks for more stability.

9. Always Stay On The Trail and Avoid Getting Lost

            a. Stay vigilant and pay attention to hiking trail markers. It is your best guide! If it has been a while since you last saw a marker, double-check your location to make sure you are still on the right trail. 

            b. Always stay on marked trails and do not risk following unmarked trails or shortcuts.

            c. Regularly check your hiking trail map or GPS to make sure you are still on the right trail.

            d. When hiking with a group or a guide, always stick with them, especially in remote areas less traveled.

10. Travel Medical Insurance

Travel Medical Insurance is unfortunately something that many travelers neglect or forget, or both, thinking they may not need it. For your outdoor safety, it is crucial to get insured. But believe it or not, travel mishaps are more common than you think. And if adventure travel activities are involved, the risks are higher. 

Conclusion

Trail hiking is an extremely exhilarating, stimulating, and equally rewarding activity. Nonetheless, outdoor safety is a must that needs to be taken extremely seriously. Whether you are a novice or a pro, careful preparation and staying safe while you enjoy the hike are paramount. So, for an unforgettable adventure experience, always stay safe!