Top Five Tips For The Hiking Novice

For the hiking novice. Get out of the (home) office.

So most of us can get out for some fresh air as and when we need it. But a walk to your local shop or around the fields by the back of your house might not feel as exciting as it could, or perhaps you’re looking to venture a little further! Here is our short guide with a few ideas on how to make it a little easier (and hopefully encourage you to take on a bigger stroll for your next trip out).

1. 1) If you’ve bought walking boots – Break.Them.In. We cannot recommend this enough. There’s nothing worse than walking an hour on a new blister! All we mean by this is wear them around the house for a few days, get to know which socks fit best in your new shoes and don’t do them up too tightly. Yes, this may sound very obvious, but in the excitement of escaping the busy household for an hour or two, you may have your head in your hands later when you realise you left your trainer socks on and your ankles are suffering for it… Which reminds us, why not pack some blister plasters, just in case! If you’re wearing your usual shoes you do for a walk – no problem! But we do advise against high heels and stilettos. Sorry to be a spoil sport.
2. 2) Dress for the weather – and yes this may mean checking your favoured weather app before you go, just in case! It might look like rain, but as we know that can change pretty quickly and you don’t want to be stuck in a long sleeved vest under a long sleeved top under a long sleeved jumper on an unexpected 23 degree day. Trust us! Do take waterproofs just in case – anything from a tiny thin scrunched up poncho to the full waterproof mac, trousers and gaiters.
3. 3) Bring a comfy backpack and a few essentials – over the shoulder bags can be uncomfortable especially when you may prefer having your arms free for a stroll, or if you opt to use a stick or walking pole for a helping hand. It means you can pack a snack and any other essentials you may like to have along the way too. Win win! Do pack a few items for emergencies such as a small first aid kit, a bottle of water, toilet roll, a torch, that sort of thing. Depending on where you are going and how long for.
4. 4) Respect the countryside – close gates, don’t litter, may sound obvious but let’s help everyone to enjoy the sights. If the idea of just walking is boring for you then create a reason to get somewhere – look up an area of local history and visit it, learn map reading / navigation. Or perhaps wildlife spot or learn about local plant life and find it – it can be really rewarding, especially if patience is your forte. Or simply look to get your next beautiful photograph for an Instagram account.
5. 5) Be kind to yourself – if you are new to hiking, don’t expect to be able to walk 20 miles on the first day. Set reasonable goals, know the route and most importantly, enjoy yourself!