Archive for the ‘hiking tips’ Category
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Hiking: Should You Bring a Light Backpack or a Heavy Backpack?
When someone is going for a hike, they inevitably run into a decision to make: should they pack heavy and be sure they have plenty of supplies, or should they strip down to the minimum and carry a lighter load? It doesn’t take much thought to imagine that the heavier your bag is, the more supplies you’ll want to keep (such as food and water to remain hydrated and fueled). Is either strategy better than the other one? Let’s take a closer look.
Bringing a heavier bag will sometimes be necessary. If you’re going on a long hike, there are certain supplies you’ll need that you wouldn’t carry on a short hike. If you’re going on a weekend backpacking trip through the hills, you’ll want to carry supplies for camping at night, as well. If you’re just going for a quick jaunt up the hiking trail, you’ll only need a first aid kit, and some food and water.
But what if you want to strip down your backpack for a light experience even when you’re on a long hike? Can you still enjoy a light backpack?General wisdom amongst minimalists who like light backpacks suggests that the lighter your load is, the less you’ll need to carry. To consider the alternative of wearing a heavy backpack, we’ll have to consider the benefits that adding extra supplies might carry with it.
Ultimately, the things you bring in your backpack should either be necessary for your survival - first-aid, food, water, etc. - or should make your life easier in some way. This brings us to the idea of technology.
Some gadgets, such as GPS navigation devices, can really make your life easier. However, they aren’t always totally necessary. The decision ultimately comes down to enjoying the convenience of a heavier load against depending on yourself with a smaller amount of supplies.
It’s recommended that you bring everything you need to keep safe, and work to keep it as simple and light as possible. For example, a GPS watch is easy to carry. Make a list of all of the things you’ll want to bring hiking, and then narrow it down to the bare necessities, or the excellent conveniences that don’t add too much weight to your load.
Ultimately, experience and skill will help determine how little you’ll be able to carry. Even if you want a very light load to carry, try going on a brief hike to see what kind of supplies are and aren’t necessary. Good hiking starts with you.
Photo Credits: rebonnett
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Hiking: What to Do When You’re Lost
If you’ve been out hiking enough, you might know the sensation: you come on some unfamiliar territory, and as you try to return to your base, you realize that the base isn’t exactly where you thought it was. Instead, you see more trees, more terrain, and way too much wilderness to possibly be in the right spot. It’s the feeling of being lost, and if you’re a novice, you’ll want to prepare to avoid this as much as possible, while also preparing to do the right thing if it ever happens.
This article will help explain what to do when you’re lost, giving you tips and advice for handling the situation when you see it – even if, hopefully, you never do.
- Prevention is key – Knowing what to do when you’re lost doesn’t guarantee that you’ll immediately find what you’re looking for, so avoid getting lost in the first place. If you can, buy up a GPS watch, or at least carry a compass with you, as well as a map, in order to make sure that you don’t go on the wrong track to begin with. Also, as you head out into the wilderness, while you soak in the views, keep a mental track of landmarks to help you navigate.
- Upon getting lost, keep a cool head – A mistake too many people make in survival situations is getting too panicked to think straight. A relaxed mind is the best kind of thinking mind, and being relaxed will keep you open to new solutions, will keep you flexible, and will prevent you from getting too frustrated right away. For all you know, you took one wrong turn from the trail and you might be all right. So relax, before you do anything else, to make sure that you keep a cool, level head. Also, when you’re relaxed, you’re using up less energy – and energy will become critical.
- Plan and prepare for finding your way home – If you’re lost and decide to relax, what’s your next step? There’s no “one” trick that will help you get home – since everyone gets different “degrees” of being lost – but you can follow a certain strategy. And what is that strategy? To take a proactive plan. Instead of being relaxed, but going in circles, give yourself real goals to pursue. For example, try to find recent landmarks that you found on your way up first – these will help remind you of the trip you took and might help you recall the way home.
Staying goal-oriented in these situations is critical. Not only does it make sure you get things done, but it will help your spirits and attitude to have small goals to work toward, giving you hope that a way home will be found.
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A Beginner’s Guide to Hiking
Taking a stroll in the woods can be a healthy and refreshing activity, but without proper preparations, it can easily turn into a tragedy. Every year, there are hundreds of fatal hiking accidents and many more involving serious injuries. Here are some easy yet important tips to take note of before you go for your next hiking trip.
There is a list of items that you must bring along with you on any hiking trip. You should have a map of the trail which you wish to take, a good compass, at least two litters of water, a change of clothes, first aid kit, compass, some snacks, food rations, and a satellite GPS unit. Make sure that your cell phone is fully charged before you leave. These items are extremely crucial, especially if you are going on a hike in forested areas.
You must also be properly attired before you leave for the trip. Wear plenty of warm clothing and a pair of sturdy shoes with good grip. Wearing a good pair of hiking shoes or boots will help prevent injuries caused by slips and falls.
Research the route of the hiking trail. Always find out where the trail leads to and how long the journey will take. If the track takes anything more than 5 hours, you should inform the park authorities. In case you get loss, the authorities would at least have a gauge of where to find you.
Generally it is never a good idea to go hiking alone. In the natural environment, there are always many treats of injury, whether it is by accident or animal attacks. Going hiking in groups will ensure that the victim will be protected and cared for in the event of any such misadventures
On any hiking trips, besides having a good time and enjoying your solitude with Mother Nature, you must always be mindful to prevent getting lost. When you get lost, you expose yourself to the dangers of being attack by wild animals, hypothermia, starvation, and sometimes even death. It is best to stick to well worn hiking trails. If you plan to go off the trail, make sure to mark your GPS system and your map.
Even if you are following a worn hiking trail, there still a chance that you may get lost due multiple split turns on the trail. Here, having a pencil and paper with you would be invaluable. Every time you reach a crossroad, mark the direction that you take on the piece of paper. This way, you will be able to find your way back after the hike.
If you ever get loss, this is when your compass comes into play. Remember, a compass is only useful if you know how to use it. Learn how to use your compass, and which directions that you would need to follow if you get lost before you start your hiking trip.
If you can’t find your way out, and you have to spend the night in the woods, keep yourself warm with the extra set of clothing and ration your food and water supply while you wait for help to arrive.Photo Credit: Tricky
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Five Things to Consider Before Hiking
Ever wanted to go on a hiking trip but didn’t know what to expect? Don’t worry, not everyone has been hiking before, and it’s perfectly normally to be concerned about what kinds of precautions you need to take before going. This article will outline five things you need to consider before you take your hiking trip.
Weather
Before taking your hiking trip it’s essentially that you watch and make sure the weather will be suitable for your hike. This includes more than just rainy and snowy weather, excessive heat is also a danger. If it’s very hot you need to be very careful not to dehydrate by brining a cool drink with you. It’s possible to hike under rainy and snowy conditions, but it’s much more important for you to bring someone along with you if you’re going to hike alone in dangerous weather.
Bring a Friend
Bringing a friend with you on a hiking trip is never a bad idea. Not only will a friend help keep you entertained but it will also help keep you both safe. If either of you are hurt the other will be there to get help or to administer first aid. It’s also much safer if there are any adverse weather conditions to be a group because two heads are better than one when solving a problem.
Map Out Your Trail
Before going on your hike it’s a good idea to map out exactly where you will be hiking to and making sure that you’re physically able to walk the distance. With a map you can locate exactly how far away you’re from finishing the hike and can appropriately take breaks and decide when you wish to eat if you’re going to eat during the hike.
Exercise Before Hiking
Exercising before you go on your hiking trip can get you ready for the strain you will be putting on your body. Many hiking trails are full of rough hilly terrain that wears the body out much easier than walking on flat cement ground. Walking an hour a day the week before you go is an excellent way to prepare for your hike and should reduce the strain you feel when you begin.
Supplies and Dress
If it’s very hot outside it makes more sense for you to wear shorts instead of long pants, and vice-versa if it’s cold outside. It’s also a good idea to bring the appropriate supplies if you have any sort of medical condition. For example if you have asthma it’s important for you to bring an inhaler.
If you follow these 5 precautions before you go hiking you’re sure to have a safe and enjoyable hiking experience.
Photo Credits: calebdzahnd
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Hiking 101
So your headed on a hiking trip, these are usually big fun! Well, that is if you remembered some of the little things that can make or break your adventure. Usually when people plan they think “big”, in other words they remember all of the big stuff but very often it is something very small that you might have overlooked that can be the determining factor of whether or not your trip was a success or another hiking nightmare.
When creating your checklist for the backpack it is important not to forget the little things that at the time may not seem important but later you may really regret that you forgot them. Forgetting some of the little things can really ruin your trip even if you did remember the big stuff. What if you went out and bought a great new pair of boots but because they were new you got some blisters when you wore them? If you don’t have something in your backpack to treat your blisters then you remembered the big thing, which was the boots but forgot the little thing that you overlooked and now you are likely miserable. Make sure that you throw in a pack of moleskins next time!
Have you ever been hiking and forgot the bug spray, if so then you are fully aware of what a disaster that can be. Even the most successful trips can turn into a nightmare. The last thing that you probably want to do is try to keep annoying bugs off of you all day long. The bug spray will stop all of those worries and it will stop you from getting bit by these little buggers and then possibly contracting some disease that could have been avoided.Iodine tablets can be a genuine lifesaver and should always be included in a backpack. Unfortunately these are often one item that is forgotten but they are never forgotten more than once because of the potential that they offer. Hiking and water just seem to go together but even if you come across the most sparkling stream that you have ever seen, drinking that water could be a very bad idea. The iodine tablets will allow you to treat the water so that you can drink it without having to worry about getting ill. Drinking water under those conditions can cause you to become seriously sick. Iodine tablets are cheap and the perfect way for you to be able to enjoy clean drinking water in no time.
Never leave home without the flashlights and some extra batteries, even if you just put new ones in, bring extras. No flashlights means darkness, darkness means that you are stuck and unable to move around because you can’t see where you are going. You could easily trip and fall or slip, especially in areas that you are not familiar with. Never assume that all areas are flat. So as you can see, clearly the big stuff is awesome but forgetting the small stuff can literally ruin your hiking trip.
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How to Fix a Side Stitch While Hiking
People aren’t exactly sure what causes the side stitch, but there’s no doubt that it results from physical activity. When you’re out hiking and taking on a tough hill, the last thing you want is a side stitch hampering your ability to exercise. But if you want to be rid of it, you’ll have to address it. In this article, you’ll find some quick tips and techniques that can help you slow down your side stitch when you’re out on the hiking trail.
Work on your breathing. Since the shorter breathing of exercise can often bring about a side stitch, try to work on breathing in deeply. It might be a little painful at first, but eventually you should notice that it relaxes the stitch and you’ll have greater mobility after a little while. Try to keep your breathing fairly consistent in order to keep the side stitch away as you continue hiking.
Make sure your stomach isn’t full or that you’re not bogged down by digestion. The old “wait an hour before you exercise after eating a meal” rule applies here. If you eat water-rich foods like vegetables and fruits, you should have little problem exercising shortly thereafter – but if you have something heavier, you might run a bigger risk of having a side stitch when you go hiking.Prevention. When you’re in good shape, you’ll notice that it’s hard to get a side stitch – this is because your body has adapted to the exercise and generally finds it easier, which means less shallow breathing as you work out. When you’re out of shape and you go hiking, your breathing is more likely to be short, which can help cause a side stitch. In order to prevent a side stitch, you’ll have to get through this “beginner’s” period and simply improve your basic core strength and cardiovascular capabilities.
Stop and take a break. You’re under no obligation to keep going through a side stitch – if you want to complete your hike, go ahead and complete it after you’ve had a restful break and feel a second wind coming on. You don’t have to power through every problem you have. The adage “no pain, no gain” doesn’t always apply – it’s just a general rule that means you’ll have to encounter resistance if you want to grow your physical strength and fitness.
Photo Credits: justicho
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How to Hike With Your Dog
Have you ever gone out on a hike by your lonesome – or with a friend – feeling guilty at the prospect of leaving Man’s Best Friend home alone?
There’s no reason to feel guilty, particularly as you can even start bringing your dog along with you on your hikes. Doing so will help you bond with your dog, bringing you both into a situation where you feel somewhat dependent on each other to keep going. With your dog with you, you won’t have to exit the house to the pattering of Fido scratching on the wall, hoping to come along.
But before you do bring your dog on a hike, make sure to follow these tips and guidelines:
- Make sure your dog has all the vaccination he/she requires. You might already have this covered, but it bears mentioning because of the unpredictability of introducing a dog back into the elements. If you’re not sure, make sure to call or check with a veterinarian before you bring your dog hiking with you.
- Get your dog in shape. Just like you wouldn’t expect yourself to tackle Mount Everest after many years as a couch potato, you can’t simply expect your dog will be in hiking shape, even if you take daily walks. Introduce your dog to hiking with a small hike to begin with – this will both help them get into shape and familiarize them with the environment you’ll be bringing them in to.
- Bring a leash. This is often required at certain hiking trails, but even if not, you’ll want to make sure you have control over your dog. You never know what kind of critter might come along and steal away your dog’s attention. Even if you have a good verbal command over your dog and leashes aren’t required, bring a leash the first couple of times just to be sure. You can always let go of the leash if the dog wants to go explore.
- Remember that you’re drinking for two. Don’t forget that your dog, just like you, will need to keep hydrated, particularly on hot summer days. This might mean a little extra packing. If your dog pants heavily, it’s a fair sign that he or she is already getting dehydrated and needs some water.
- Consider your dog to be like bring a smaller person along with you. How would you prepare to bring another person along with you? You’d need extra supplies of the same things like food and water, yes, but you’ll also need to be prepared with a first aid kit.
Following these simple guidelines a few times will get you used to the idea of taking your dog with you on your excursions into the woods and the great outdoors. But as with anything, make sure you and your dog are ready before you start embarking on your adventures.
Photo Credits: ArtbanditoRepublished by Old Post Promoter
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How to Train for a Long Hiking Trip
So you’re finally ready to do it: heading out to the Grand Canyon in a month or two, you feel excited for all of the views you’re going to see. But are you ready for all of the exercise you’re going to get? If you need to shake off your hiking rust, this article will help whip you back into hiking shape so you can concentrate on the nature – not the nuisance.
There’s No Training Like the Real Thing
You might be putting in extra hours at the office in order to make sure that you can have this extended hiking trip, but that doesn’t mean you can’t squeeze in a few hiking jaunts on your own. If you can, bring your spouse on these hiking trips so that you both receive the benefits. If you venture out alone, make sure you don’t venture far off the beaten path – your goal is simply to re-acquaint yourself with the experience of hiking. If you must have adventure, make sure you bring equipment like a compass and GPS device.
There is no training like the real thing: hiking up and down hills will help you not only build up the leg strength you’ll be requiring, it will help you work out the details of your own trip. What did you forget to bring on this hiking trip that you’ll need on your hiking trip? What was uncomfortable about your hike, and what can you buy out there on the marketplace that will help you feel better?Training Near or At Home
Of course, it’s not always possible to get out there and hike in the woods. How should you exercise and prepare today?
First, take a look at your daily routine. Whether you’re sitting on the couch all day or simply taking a daily walk, you might want to change things up to better reflect what you’ll be doing on your trip. If you’ve been avoiding that big hill on your walk, it’s time to take on the challenge. If your treadmill has an incline feature, be sure to make avid use of it.
Second, make sure you feel okay about leaving indoor civilization for hours at a time, even if your exercise routine keeps you on the treadmill. Ask yourself what you’d need to feel comfortable: plenty of water and snacks, sure. But also remember that on your hiking trip, you’ll want to bring gadgets like binoculars and a digital camera. Most importantly: be cautious and safe, and you should have plenty of fun.
Photo Credits: tricky ™
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How to Find North on the Hiking Trip
If you’re out hiking at night, or in an unknown area, while on a hiking or camping trip, it will be important to keep your bearings. This is especially true if you’re camping in a place you’ve never been before, where almost every location will look new and consequently, a little confusing. But if you always know how to find north and have the resources to do it effectively, you’ll be in better shape. Here are some ways to find north while you’re hiking.
Bring the right equipment:
Most of your problems will be eliminated if you bring a GPS device or a compass with you – or both. Of course, not every one of us has access to these once we’re out in the woods, so you don’t want to rely on technology alone. That’s why having other ways of determining direction will be extremely valuable. If you are informed and bring the right technology with you, you’ll have no trouble determining your direction.
On a clear night, use the stars.
Navigating by the stars has been important for seafaring civilizations for hundreds – maybe thousands – of years. On a clear night out in the woods, you should have an excellent view of the right stars to help point out where north is. In the northern hemisphere, locate the Big Dipper. At the “spoon” end of the dipper (not the handle end), the two end stars point toward the North Star.
Click here for an illustration. Note: in the southern hemisphere, you can use a similar technique with the Summer Cross. Research this more to learn how it’s done.
During daylight, use the presence of the sun.
If you know what time it is, you should have a good idea of where the sun is. In the northern hemisphere, the sun will be due south at noon – this won’t help as much the closer to the equator you are. It will rise in the east and set in the west, although you don’t want to use the sun’s rising or setting to indicate exact directions east and west.
Most importantly, in a situation where you need to use navigation like this, try to keep calm. Staying relaxed will help you to remember tips and tricks like this, so keeping your wits might be the most important tip of all.
Photo Credits: cwalker71
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5 Hiking Etiquette Tips That Will Prevent Any Possible Rudeness
If you’re starting out as a hiker – or as an avid follower of any outdoor activity – you’re probably not aware of some of the finer rules and unwritten regulations that govern day-to-day activity. Which is another way of saying that you might make dumb mistakes and make people mad. But, thankfully, this article will help explain some basic hiking etiquette tips that will take away any of the guesswork and have you looking like a pro quickly.
Tip #1: Mind Your Environment. When you’re out hiking, it’s tempting to use new gadgets and equipment to make nature more like the indoors – and in doing so, we sometimes “mess” with the natural setting that so many people enjoy. Even if you’re not an environmentalist, it can be polite to make sure that you leave most of the wildlife the way you found it, so clean up after yourself. This also includes littering – littering is a big no-no: people don’t come out hiking to get a view of the latest junk food wrappers that have scattered on the ground.
Tip #2: The path isn’t a restroom. This might seem like a no-brainer, but you might be surprised how many people find it funny to use the path as their personal restroom. Instead, make sure that when nature calls, you’re well out of sight and won’t be making a mess that could get in the way of other hikers.Tip #3: Use soap discriminantly. What does discriminantly mean? Well, many soap products can actually get into water supplies and make them bad; so make sure that you’re either using a public place that has drains to do your washing or in a source of water that’s far off the beaten path. If you’re soaping up your hair in a small waterfall that leads to a small stream that other people might use for various reasons, this could be considered rude.
Tip #4: Monitor your noise levels. One of the big irritants for many people isn’t necessarily the sight of another person, but the sound that person might bring with them. Don’t treat a hiking ground as a campsite where you can pull up your trailer and start blasting your tunes; instead, make sure that you mind other peoples’ experience. Control your noise and make sure that you don’t go above and beyond the unreasonable levels.
Tip #5: Notify rangers and supervisors about litter or vandalism. Sometimes, you might come across signs that have been vandalized or damaged – make sure that you keep a mental note of them and make sure to tell the local ranger. This will help maintain the site and will keep the signs fresh for other hikers.
Photo Credits: rcoder
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