Many of us have been cooped up inside for so long we’ve forgotten what it’s like to get outside in the great outdoors, and could use a few pointers on how to prepare for a summer hike.
And let’s face it, there’s really nothing like getting the heart pumping in this very natural way. Hikes are not only highly effective workouts— they can also serve as great mindfulness exercises.
But, hikes can also be physically intense and often require ample preparation to keep the activity safe. In light of this we’re filling you in on:
How to Prepare for Summer Hike in 5 Easy Steps
Pack a Bag of Essentials
Regardless of how easy or intense your chosen hiking trail is, packing a bag of emergency supplies is vital. When selecting a bag, choose one that you can easily carry on your back to prevent any added stress on your arms while walking.
Although your hiking bag should contain safety essentials, such as water, food, and health supplies, don’t make your backpack too heavy.
Essentials for a summer hike backpack:
- Water bottle
- Snacks
- First aid kit
- Flashlight
- Compass
- Sunscreen
Wear the Right Gear
There’s a reason you’ve probably never seen anyone wearing jeans on a hiking trail. Wearing comfortable and breathable fabrics during a hike is essential to regulating your body’s heat during this strenuous exercise.
Perhaps the most critical gear to wear during a summer hike is appropriate hiking footwear. Although hiking is an excellent low-impact exercise for the summer, your feet will still need ample support and protection from the rough terrain of the trails.
Map Out Your Trail
Before you embark on your summer hike, map the exact route you’ll walk. Showing up to a trail without previously mapping out the area or terrain could cause you to become lost or confused.
If you begin a hike without realizing how physically intense the terrain is, you also risk overexerting and exhausting your body halfway through.
Hydrate Beforehand
Bringing water on a hike is essential, but adequately hydrating yourself before a walk is even more crucial. When you hike outdoors in the sun, you’ll likely lose an excessive amount of your body’s water through sweat.
If you fail to drink plenty of fluids before a hike, you’re more likely to experience muscle cramps and aches during. Dehydration and muscle cramping are avoidable when you remember to hydrate before your summer hike.
Pick the Right Time of Day
One of the most crucial ways to prepare for a summer hike is to choose an appropriate time for hiking. While you may not be a morning person, opting for a morning hike will mean more sunlight and a lower outdoor temperature. If you begin hiking during the late afternoon, you’ll experience the warmest weather of the day and risk hiking after sunset.
Summer hikes are a fantastic full-body exercise that requires extensive planning. Take note of the steps on this list to ensure you’re ready to embark on your trail before you get started.
At last! It’s time to lace up those sturdy shoes and hit the great outdoor trails. We show you exactly how to prepare for a summer hike.