If you are a beginner in trekking and want to start your trekking journey, we bring you the top 10 Tips for trekking you have to follow for a smooth and memorable trekking experience.
Trekking is one of the best experiences to get away from the hectic, busy schedule of city life. Trekking helps to get you out of your comfort zone and you can know more about yourself. Along with that, you will get to know and explore new horizons and come closer to nature.
Trekking is also good for your overall health, from improved cardiovascular fitness to mental relaxation, making it not just a physical challenge but a holistic experience.
Here, we have listed the top 10 Tips for Trekking that will make your journey a memorable one.
1. Choose Right Season
Before starting trekking, always check up-to-date weather reports for the right season for the particular area. Weather conditions can greatly affect the difficulty and safety of the trek. Avoid the monsoon and winter seasons, as trails can be slippery and dangerous due to rain or snow.
Choosing the moderate season ensures a safer, more comfortable, and more beautiful trekking experience.
2. Start with an easy trail.
As a beginner, pick an easy or moderate trek that matches your fitness level. Go for shorter distances first and gradually increase the difficulty. This will not make your trekking experience a hectic one, and you can enjoy the overall process.
It is always a good idea to research about the trial’s condition.
3. Practice hikes
Start with short and easy hikes before going for long-distance trekking. Practice hikes are a great way to prepare your body to build stamina, strengthen your muscles, and get comfortable with walking on different terrain. Go to local parks, nature reserves, or trails near your city. Places with mild elevation and well-marked paths are perfect for beginners.
4. Trekking Poles
Trekking poles are a game-changer for hiking and trekking, as they offer extra stability and support on tricky trails. Mostly trekking poles are made from lightweight materials like aluminum or carbon fiber, and they help reduce strain on your knees, especially when climbing steep hills or descending rocky paths. You can easily adjust their height for a perfect fit, and many feature comfy grips that feel good in your hands during long hikes. With rubber tips for smooth surfaces and carbide tips for rough terrain, these poles adapt to any environment.
Overall, trekking poles can boost your balance and confidence, making your outdoor adventures safer and more enjoyable!
5. Acclimatize to Altitude
Acclimatizing and resting are crucial parts of trekking. They help your body adjust and make the overall journey comfortable. As you ascend to higher elevations, the oxygen level drops, which can make breathing more difficult and cause altitude sickness. Go slow as you head towards increased altitude, especially when you’re above 2,500 meters (8,200 feet).
Take rest days for every 300 to 500 meters (1,000 to 1,600 feet) of elevation gain. Along with a slow pace, drink plenty of water to cope with the altitude. Avoid alchohol and caffeine as they can dehydrate your body. Listen to your body. If you dont feel right, dont push yourself.
6. Good-quality footwear
Investing in good-quality footwear is a must. Comfortable shoes with proper grip and support can transform your trekking experience. The trail can be unpredictable, sometimes slippery, and rough, so footwear specially designed for trekking is highly recommended. Make sure you break into the shoes to avoid blisters.
7. Comfortable Clothes
Choose clothing made from moisture-wicking, breathable materials to keep you comfortable during your trek. Dress in layers to adapt to changing weather conditions and ensure you stay dry and warm.
8. Pack Light
Pack only the essentials to keep your load light. A lighter backpack makes your trek much more enjoyable and less tiring. Prioritize the gear you truly need and leave behind anything extra. As you are going to carry the backpack, overloading with unnecessary things can decrease your stamina and make the experience sour.
8. Being prepared for Emergencies
Trekking in the unknown and wild can bring unexpected challenges. It is always a good idea to carry a basic first-aid kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptic, and pain relievers. Other gear to carry is a whistle, flashlight, and map it can be a lifesaver in emergency cases.
10. Enjoy the journey
Enjoy the overall journey. Your trekking does not have to be perfect. Just go with the flow and enjoy every moment, as you may never return to the same spot in the same way again. Soak in nature and enjoy the view. Nature can be unpredictable, and so are the challenges that come with trekking. Instead of focusing on perfection, just go with the flow and be open to whatever the experience brings.
Make sure you take lots of pictures for memories and enjoy the trail.
Are you ready for the trek?
Amazing Himalaya Trekking is a Nepal-based trekking company that offers affordable trekking and tour packages. Our popular packages include the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Everest Base Camp Trek, and Upper Mustang Trek. These packages also include a variation of budget tours and luxury tours, which you can choose according to your convenience.
Contact us for more details and book your next trek with us!