Top Trekking Tips For Beginners

Trekking is a fantastic way to explore the great outdoors whilst getting in some exercise! If you’re new to trekking then check out our top trekking tips for beginners…

Where to Go?

So, the saying goes … “Put down the map and get wonderfully lost”. However, this may not be the most practical advice if you are new to trekking. It’s important to do a bit of research and find the right route for you.

Resources such as Walking Britain, The National Trust and All Trails have a range of different walking routes for you to test out. Once you have decided on a route, familiarise yourself with a map of the area. It’s always worth starting with popular trails before you venture out on more adventurous routes or maybe even ask an experienced friend to join you on your first few hikes.

When choosing your route, start small and choose the right route for you. Once you have been out on a couple of hikes, you’ll be able to gauge your fitness level and can then go on a few more difficult walks when you feel comfortable.

What to Wear on Your Trek?

The weather in the UK is highly unpredictable – so it’s always best to be prepared. Layers are key! It’s better to be too warm and have layers to take off, than to be too cold or not have any waterproofs during a sudden downpour.

Here are some top tips on what to wear on your trek;

• Wear comfortable hiking boots, with good ankle support. Check out our Guide to Walking Boots for more information on choosing good quality footwear for your adventure!
• Always carry waterproofs with you – even if the weather forecast is sunshine and blue skies. You don’t want to get caught out in the rain!
• Avoid cotton walking socks – woollen socks will help to keep your feet dry and will prevent blisters.
• Bring plenty of layers. The weather conditions may change dramatically half way through your walk – it’s much better to be prepared.
• Avoid cotton clothing. Wool or fleece layers will keep you warmer and drier throughout your trek.

For more information, check out our blog post; What to Wear on a Hike.

What to Pack

To start with, you’ll need a backpack that fits you correctly. Secondly, make sure your bag has a waist strap that rests on your hip bones – you should feel most of the weight of your bag on your hips, not your shoulders. And finally make sure you pack your bag correctly, with the heaviest items closest to your back.

Here are the vital items you’ll need to pack;

• Water – Keep hydrated! Make sure you bring plenty of water on your trek and take small sips regularly. Using a rehydration system makes it easier to keep hydrated on the go!
• Map, Compass & Directions – Always have a map with you and make sure you have researched your route beforehand. If you’re looking for some advice on how to read a map, then check out this Simple Guide to Map Reading.
• Emergency Kit – Be prepared for all eventualities! Make sure you take a basic first aid kit, whistle and survival blanket with you on your trek.
• Snacks – Trekking takes up a lot of energy, so make sure you refuel regularly with lightweight high energy food. Snacks such as fruit, nuts and energy bars will keep you going for longer.
• Fully Charged Mobile Phone – Make sure you bring your mobile phone just in case you get lost or come into some sort of difficulty. If you don’t think that your battery will last the duration of your trek, then bring a lightweight portable charger with you.
• Sunscreen – Don’t forget your sunscreen! To keep things lightweight only bring a small tube with you.

Other Top Tips

• Always check the weather leading up to and on the day of your hike. This will help to ensure you have all the correct kit with you. If the forecast is looking terrible, then rearrange your walk for another day.
• Tell someone where you are going and what time you should be finished by – and don’t forget to let them know when you have returned from your trek!
• Pace yourself. Remember – this isn’t a race! If you start your trek powering along the path, then you might find you use up all of your energy too quickly and become fatigued early on. Take it slow and enjoy the views!
• Join a local hiking group, such as the Ramblers. It’s a fun way to meet people with similar interests.
• Leave no trace – Leave nothing but footprints. Take nothing but photos.

Once you’ve read our Trekking Tips for Beginners, and been on a few treks, then it might be time to set yourself a challenge.

TrekFest is our ultimate trekking event – a 25km or 50km hike through stunning UK scenery.

Whether you want to take on the challenge for yourself, or would like to do so in support of your chosen charity, you’ll be surrounded by hundreds of like minded individuals all wanting to make a difference.

For more information click here or give us a call on 01244 676454.