ESSENTIAL TREKKING TIPS FOR BEGINNERS

Choose your route well Know your limits and make sure that you learn about the route and the trail, and that you’re positive your body will be able to handle it. Don’t forget, at the end of the journey, this is supposed to be an enjoyable experience.

Good trekking equipment is important Invest in good footwear – get a pair of good quality trekking boots that will endure the various terrains you will be trekking on. Make sure they’re ankle-high to give the most support. Aside from footwear, choose a comfortable backpack with the right back straps, hip straps and support.

Stay hydrated Underestimating the amount of water to bring on a trek can be a trekker’s undoing. It’s always better to have an excess of water than to be hydrated. Fill up some water bottles and for long treks, purchase some good water filtration devices.

Prepare for the weather Always be sure of the environment and temperature of the country that you will be visiting, and do a general search on the weather in the area to avoid rain or storms. While trekking is typically a safe activity, a lot can go wrong when doing it in extreme weather conditions.

Pack lightly Don’t stuff your backpacks with everything and anything that you think you’ll need. While it might seem like a good idea to bring your Bluetooth speakers, pillows and an excess of snacks, hauling them up an incline won’t be worth it. Make sure you get lightweight equipment, pack lightweight food specifically for trekking, and take out any unneeded items. For multi-day treks, bring a cookery set and enough food and water to last you.

Go at your own pace There’s nothing wrong with taking your time to enjoy the scenery. This isn’t a race – so listen to your body and take breaks. Trekking is a challenging experience, but that’s not to say it can’t be a fun one too.