Hiking is the favourite hobby for a large number of people. It gives you the scope of training your body up in the art of determination. It is a form of exercise with a healthy effect on the body and the mind.

It is important for you to be fully prepared if you want to enjoy your hiking expedition. You will be inviting disaster if you go for it unprepared. So, what are the tricks that you must know before going hiking? Some have been listed below:

1. Bring Lots of Water

Having a good supply of water is the first and the most important thing that you must have in mind when going hiking. You must pack more than what you think you might require. This is because hiking is a kind of work out and one thing that you will need the most in reaching the top is water. You must have sufficient water to keep you going through the entirety of your hike. In addition to this, your trek would not be fun on an overstuffed stomach.

2. Have a Clear Idea of the Area

Get maps of the area you have chosen for your hiking expedition. Have an idea of the terrain. It is also important for you to know the distance that you will be covering each day. Have somebody knowing the route that you are planning to take. Also, estimate the time of arrival and return. It is very important for you to have a good backup plan ready in case nature takes a toll on your hiking plans.

3. Go for Leg-Based Exercises

You must make leg-based exercise a routine. This is extremely important because hiking is all about walking. So, never refrain from taking long walks and playing games like football, soccer, and squash. Swimming and cycling are also some of the best exercises for hikers. When in the gym, try out on lunges and squats and yes, always take the stairs. This is because stair climbing helps in building the quads and the calves.

4. Check Weather Conditions

Try having an idea of the type of weather that can be expected in the area chosen for the hike. This way, you will be fully prepared for adverse weather conditions. You will also be able to change your plans accordingly. Prior to making your way to the trail, go online or consult a park ranger to know about the weather of the day.

5. Pack Hiking Essentials

You must have a list of the most important things that you might require during your hiking trail ready. Do not miss out on anything that you think might ruin your adventure. The hiking essentials that you must not miss out are sun protection, map, first aid kit, waterproof lighter, emergency shelter, and repair kit.

6. Feet Protection is of Utmost Importance

Your feet serve as one of the most important parts of your body during a trek. Therefore, you must make all efforts in protecting your feet from cuts, blisters, snakes, bugs, and water. For this, you must get water-resistant and good quality hiking boots.

7. Tune In

Trekking is an outdoor activity where you need to pay a lot of attention to your surroundings and your body. Always have an idea of the position of the sun. This will have you reaching home before the sun is down. Stop for breaks and snacks when you feel tired.

For avid hikers, the tricks detailed above can really be of good help in preparing and planning a great hike.