The 10 Things To Pay Attention To When Hiking

Preparation helps you stay safe when hiking, so pay attention to these 10 important things before you go: navigation, weather, footwear, hydration, nutrition, sun protection, clothing layers, illumination, first aid, and safety. You want to stop problems like hypothermia, dehydration, and heat exhaustion. Use this checklist each time you hike. You will feel ready and sure, no matter what happens.

Key Takeaways

• Always bring a map and compass. They do not need batteries. They help you find your way safely.
• Look at the weather forecast before you hike. Be ready for quick changes. Wear waterproof clothes and bring emergency gear.
• Pick the right shoes for the trail. Good shoes stop injuries. They also keep your feet comfortable.
• Drink water often to stay hydrated. Bring enough water for your hike. Know how to clean water if you need more.
• Pack a first aid kit and learn simple first aid. Being ready helps you treat small injuries on the trail.

Navigation

Map and Compass

You always want to carry a map and compass, even if you use a GPS device. These tools never run out of battery or lose signal. You can trust them in any weather or location. Many hikers forget to bring them, but you should make it a habit. Knowing how to read a map and use a compass helps you stay on track, especially when trails are hard to see or markers are missing.

Tip: Practice using your map and compass before your hike. You will feel more confident if you know how to find your way.

Here are some common navigation mistakes hikers make:

• Not following trail markers. You might get lost or take a wrong turn.
• Not letting anyone know your plan. If something goes wrong, it is harder for people to find you.
• Poor time planning. You may rush back before dark, which can be unsafe.

You want to avoid these mistakes by staying alert and planning ahead.

GPS Devices

GPS devices make navigation easier. You get real-time updates and can track your progress. Many hikers like using GPS because it feels simple and quick. However, you should know that GPS devices can fail in remote areas. Dense trees or deep canyons can block signals. Batteries can die, and sometimes the device cannot tell if you are moving slowly or standing still.

You get the best results when you combine both methods. Always bring a map and compass as a backup. Learn how to use them. You will feel prepared for anything the trail throws at you.

Weather

Check Forecasts

You want to know what the sky will do before you step onto the trail. Weather can change fast in the mountains, so checking the forecast is a must. Start by looking at the weather for three to five days before your hike. Compare at least two sources, like Mountain Forecast, Windy.com, or Forecast.weather.gov. This helps you spot any big changes or surprises.

Tip: Always check the forecast for the elevation you plan to hike. The weather at the base can be very different from the peak.

Here’s what you should look for:

• Wind speed and direction. Strong winds can make hiking dangerous, especially near ridges.
• Precipitation type and amount. Rain, snow, or sleet can affect trail conditions and visibility.
• Temperature highs and lows. Pack for both, including wind chill.
• Freeze level. Know when rain might turn to snow.
• Sunrise and sunset times. Plan your hike so you finish before dark.

Sudden weather changes, like thunderstorms, often lead to hiking accidents. Rockfall and bad weather can cause trouble during climbs. Many hikers get caught by lightning while descending, trying to escape storms.

Prepare for Changes

You want to be ready for anything the weather throws at you. Pack reliable waterproof layers, like a jacket and pants made from breathable materials. Use a waterproof cover for your backpack to keep your gear dry. Bring emergency shelter options, such as a lightweight bivy sack or compact tent.

Here’s a quick checklist:

1. Always check the weather before you leave.
2. Pack wet weather gear, including a rain jacket and pants.
3. Trust your instincts. Turn back if the weather looks dangerous.
4. Look for natural shelters, like rock overhangs or dense trees, if a storm hits.
5. Use your gear to make a temporary shelter if needed.

If you see lightning, avoid exposed ridges and tall, isolated trees. Move to lower ground and find shelter in dense forests or under rock overhangs. Staying alert and prepared helps you stay safe when the weather changes suddenly.

Footwear

Proper Shoes

You want shoes that match the trail. The right pair keeps you comfortable and safe. If you pick the wrong shoes, you risk injuries. Here’s a quick look at what can happen when you don’t pay attention to your footwear:

You should always check the terrain before you choose your shoes. Here’s what to look for:

• Wet & Muddy Terrain: Waterproof uppers, slip-resistant soles, and self-cleaning lugs. Shoes like KEEN Targhee IV WP or Salomon Quest 4 GTX work well.
• Snowy Terrain: Insulated and waterproof boots with strong traction. Merrell Thermo Chill Mid is a good choice.
• Rocky Terrain: Durable, semi-stiff shoes with excellent grip. Try Lowa Renegade GTX or Vasque St. Elias GTX.

Tip: Try your shoes on with hiking socks before your trip. Walk around to make sure they feel right.

Socks

Socks matter more than you think. The right pair keeps your feet dry and helps prevent blisters. You want socks made from merino wool or synthetic blends. These materials wick away sweat and keep your feet cool or warm. Cotton socks trap moisture and make blisters worse, so skip them.

Look for socks that fit snugly. Loose socks bunch up and rub your skin. Features like arch support and anatomical design help your socks stay in place. Good socks manage moisture and keep your feet dry, even on long hikes.

• Material: Merino wool regulates temperature and wicks moisture. Synthetic blends add durability.
• Fit: Snug socks with no extra fabric prevent friction.
• Moisture Management: Dry feet mean fewer blisters.

Note: Always pack an extra pair of socks. You’ll thank yourself if your feet get wet or sweaty. 🧦

Hydration

Water Supply

You must watch your water supply while hiking. Dehydration can happen fast, especially on hot days or high up. Bring enough water for your whole hike. Know how much you should drink. The amount depends on your fitness, age, and trail type.

Here is a simple guide for water intake:

Check your water bottles before you leave home. Make sure you have enough for your trip. For long hikes, look for water sources like streams or lakes. If you are not sure, bring extra water.

Tip: Drink small sips often. Do not wait until you feel thirsty. This helps you stay hydrated and stops cramps.

Purification

Not all water on the trail is safe to drink. Even clear streams can have germs or viruses. You must clean water before you drink it.

Here are good ways to purify water:

• Filtration: Removes bacteria and protozoa. Some filters use fine mesh or even a coffee filter. Filtration does not get rid of viruses.
• Boiling: Kills bacteria and viruses. Boil water for at least 60 seconds. You need a heat source for this.
• Iodine: Tablets or drops clean water. They are light and easy to carry. They may taste strange.
• Ultraviolet Purification: Uses UV light to kill germs. Works best on clear water after filtration. You need batteries or solar power.

Pick a method that works for your hike. Always bring a backup way to clean water. Clean water keeps you healthy and strong while hiking.

Nutrition

Snacks

You need snacks that keep your energy up all day. Hiking burns a lot of calories, especially on steep or long trails. Take a look at how many calories you might use:

You want snacks that give you steady fuel. Choose foods that pack a punch and fit in your backpack. Here are some top picks for hiking:

• 🥜 Nuts, seeds, and trail mixes for healthy fats and quick carbs.
• 🍫 Energy bars and bites with whole-food ingredients.
• 🍌 Dried fruit for fast sugars and potassium.
• 🥩 Jerky (meat or plant-based) for protein and salt.
• 🍪 Granola and crackers for crunch and variety.
• 🥄 Nut butters for a balance of fat, protein, and fiber.
• 🍫 Dark chocolate for caffeine and antioxidants.

Tip: Mix sweet and savory snacks. You stay interested in your food and avoid flavor fatigue.

Food Storage

You want to keep your food safe from animals and fresh for your hike. Wildlife can smell snacks from far away. Use smart storage methods to protect your food and yourself:

1. Use bear canisters if you hike in bear country. These keep bears out and your food safe.
2. Hang your food in a bear bag at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet from tree trunks.
3. Use food storage lockers at campsites when available.
4. Store scented items and trash at least 100 feet from your tent.
5. Pack snacks in airtight containers to hide smells.
6. Clean your cooking area and dispose of waste properly.

Note: Never keep food in your tent. You lower your risk of animal encounters and keep your campsite safe.

Sun Protection

Sunscreen

You need sunscreen every time you hike. The sun can burn your skin in just 15 minutes, even if the sky looks cloudy. Sunburn hurts and can ruin your hike. Sometimes, you might get sun poisoning, which causes dehydration and fever. Heat rash makes your skin itchy and blistered. If you get too hot, you could pass out or feel weak. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are serious and can affect your brain and organs.

So, what should you look for in sunscreen? Pick a high SPF rating. SPF 50+ works well for most hikes. If you hike at high altitudes or have fair skin, choose SPF 60, 70, or even 100. These block almost all UVB rays and give you strong protection. Apply sunscreen to every exposed area—face, neck, ears, arms, and legs. Reapply every two hours, especially if you sweat or get wet.

Tip: Carry a small bottle of sunscreen in your pack. You can reapply quickly and avoid painful burns.

Recommended SPF Ratings for Hiking:

• SPF 50+: Great for direct sunlight and long hikes.
• SPF 60: Blocks about 98.5% of UVB rays.
• SPF 70: Best for people who burn easily.
• SPF 100: Use for extreme sunlight or high mountains.

Hat and Sunglasses

A hat and sunglasses protect you from the sun’s rays. A wide-brimmed hat shields your head, face, ears, and neck. Sunglasses cut down glare and keep your eyes safe from UV rays. You want both for full coverage.

Wide-brimmed hats block a lot of sunlight. Sunglasses help you see better and stop eye damage. If you use both, you still need sunscreen for your skin. High light levels can sneak past hats and glasses, so don’t skip any part of your sun protection.

• Choose a hat with a brim all around.
• Pick sunglasses with UV protection.
• Wear both, even on cloudy days.

Note: Sun protection keeps you comfortable and safe. You avoid burns, rashes, and heat problems. Make it a habit every time you hike. 🧢🕶️

Clothing Layers

Extra Layers

You want to pack extra layers every time you hike. Weather changes fast, and your body temperature can drop or rise quickly. If you only wear one shirt, you might get cold when the wind picks up or the sun goes down. When you bring extra layers, you stay comfortable and safe.

Here’s what you should look for in your layering system:

• Base Layer: This sits next to your skin. It should wick away sweat and keep you dry.
• Insulating Layer: This traps heat and keeps you warm. Fleece or down jackets work well.
• Outer Layer: This protects you from rain, snow, and wind. Waterproof jackets and pants are best.

Tip: Always pack a lightweight jacket, even if the forecast looks sunny. You never know when the weather will change.

Layering gives you flexibility. You can add or remove layers as you hike. If you start to sweat, take off a layer. If you feel cold, put one back on. This helps you regulate your body temperature and avoid problems like hypothermia or overheating.

Benefits of layering:

• Adjust clothing for changing weather and activity.
• Regulate body temperature by adding or removing layers.
• Stay dry with moisture-wicking fabrics.
• Retain heat with insulating materials.
• Shield yourself from rain, snow, and wind.

Material Choice

Picking the right materials for your layers makes a big difference. Some fabrics keep you dry and warm, while others trap sweat and make you cold. You want clothes that help you manage moisture and stay comfortable.

Here’s a quick guide to the best materials for hiking layers:

• Polyester: Wicks sweat and dries fast. Good for base layers.
• Nylon: Similar to polyester, often less expensive.
• Merino Wool: Soft, breathable, and keeps you warm. It also resists odors and dries quickly.

Note: Avoid cotton. It holds moisture and makes you cold if you sweat or get wet.

Choose layers made from these materials. You’ll stay dry, warm, and comfortable, no matter what the trail brings. 🧥🧦

Illumination

Headlamp

You need a headlamp for hiking, especially if you might finish after dark or start before sunrise. A headlamp gives you hands-free light, so you can move easily and focus on the trail. You do not have to hold anything, which means you can use your hands for balance or to grab your trekking poles. The light always points where you look, so you see rocks, roots, and trail markers right away.

Here are the main benefits of using a headlamp:

• High wearing comfort. You forget it is even there.
• Maximum freedom of movement. You can climb, scramble, or check your map without stopping.
• Hands-free operation. You stay safe and react quickly.
• Wide beam of light. You see more of the trail and your surroundings.

A hiker shared that headlamps make night hiking easier. You keep your hands free and always have light where you need it. This helps you feel more confident and less distracted.

Tip: Always pack extra batteries or a backup headlamp. You do not want to get stuck in the dark.

Flashlight

A flashlight is another option for lighting your way. You hold it in your hand, so you can point it exactly where you want. Some hikers like flashlights for their strong, focused beam. They work well if you need to look into tight spaces or signal for help.

However, flashlights have a narrow beam. You might miss rocks or roots near your feet. Holding a flashlight can get tiring, especially on long hikes. You lose some freedom of movement, and your hands are not free for other tasks.

You want to choose the tool that fits your hike. For most trails, a headlamp works best. If you want extra light or need to signal, bring a small flashlight as backup. 🕯️

Note: Test your lights before you leave. Make sure they work and have fresh batteries. Good illumination keeps you safe and helps you enjoy your hike, even after sunset.

First Aid

Kit Essentials

You want to carry a first aid kit every time you hike. The right supplies help you handle small injuries and keep you moving. Outdoor safety experts recommend packing items that treat blisters, cuts, and sprains. You also need things for cleaning wounds and stopping bleeding.

Here’s what you should include in your hiking first aid kit:

• Adhesive bandages in different sizes for cuts and scrapes
• Blister treatments to stop pain and prevent infection
• Gauze pads and medical tape for bigger wounds
• Antiseptic wipes and disinfecting ointment to clean injuries
• Butterfly bandages for closing small cuts
• Trauma pads for heavy bleeding
• Elastic bandages for sprains or strains
• Over-the-counter pain medication for headaches or sore muscles
• Medication for fever or allergic reactions
• Nitrile gloves to keep your hands clean and safe

Tip: Check your kit before each hike. Replace anything you use or that expires.

A well-stocked kit gives you peace of mind. You can handle most minor problems on the trail.

Basic Skills

Knowing what to do with your first aid kit matters just as much as having one. You should learn a few basic first aid skills before you hit the trail. These skills help you stay calm and act fast if something goes wrong.

Important first aid skills for hikers include:

• Treating cuts, scrapes, and blisters
• Handling sprains and strains
• Recognizing and treating heat exhaustion
• Managing hypothermia
• Responding to snake bites
• Knowing the basics of CPR

You do not need to be an expert. Practice these skills at home so you feel ready. Even simple knowledge can make a big difference when you hike. 🩹

Note: Carry a small first aid guide in your kit. It helps you remember what to do in an emergency.

Pay Attention to Safety

Situational Awareness

You want to pay attention to everything around you while hiking. Look at the trail, the weather, and the people nearby. Stay alert for changes in the terrain or sudden drops. If you see wildlife, keep your distance and respect their space. Don’t let your phone or music distract you.

“Situational awareness, or staying aware of your surroundings, is one of your best defenses against danger.”

Always check the ground before you step. Watch for loose rocks, slippery mud, or roots that could trip you. If you notice something feels off, stop and look around.

• Weather can change fast. Dress in layers and check the sky often.
• Drink water regularly to avoid dehydration.
• Wear the right clothes to prevent hypothermia.
• Use good shoes and carry a first aid kit for injuries.
• Learn to use a map and compass so you don’t get lost.
• Respect wildlife and keep a safe distance.

“Stopping to make sure that the environment is as safe as possible means that more players stay in the game.”

Group Travel

Hiking with others helps you stay safe. Friends can help if you get hurt or feel tired. You can share snacks, water, and gear. Group travel also makes the hike more fun and less lonely. If you feel bored or worried, talking with friends can lift your mood.

• Friends can help in an emergency.
• You share the work, like setting up camp or cooking.
• Group hikes create memories and stronger friendships.

If you hike alone, you make all the choices. This can feel freeing, but it can also be stressful. For most people, hiking with a group is safer and more enjoyable.

Emergency Devices

You should always carry a way to call for help. Some trails have no cell service, so you need special devices. Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) send out an SOS signal. Satellite phones let you talk to rescuers. Devices like SPOT or Garmin can send messages and help people find you.

• PLBs use satellites to send emergency signals.
• Satellite phones work almost anywhere.
• SPOT and Garmin devices let you send and receive messages.

Pay attention to your gear before you leave. Make sure your emergency device works and you know how to use it. These tools can save your life if something goes wrong.

When you pay attention to these 10 essentials, you set yourself up for a safe and enjoyable hike. Double-check your gear and plans before you head out. Preparation helps you feel confident and comfortable on the trail. Here’s what makes a difference:

1. Study your route and know the terrain.
2. Monitor the weather and pack smart.
3. Leave your itinerary with someone you trust.

Make this checklist part of your routine. You’ll hike with less stress and more fun every time! 🥾

FAQ

What should you do if you get lost on a hike?

Stay calm. Stop walking and look at your map or GPS. Try to retrace your steps. If you cannot find the trail, stay put and use your whistle or emergency device to signal for help.

What is the best way to keep your food safe from animals?

Store your food in a bear canister or hang it in a bear bag away from your tent. Use airtight containers to hide smells. Never keep snacks in your sleeping area.

What items must you always carry for safety?

You should always bring a map, compass, first aid kit, extra water, snacks, headlamp, and an emergency device. These items help you handle most problems on the trail.

What should you wear for a day hike?

Wear moisture-wicking clothes, sturdy hiking shoes, and a hat. Pack extra layers and a rain jacket. Avoid cotton because it traps sweat and makes you cold.

What is the best way to stay hydrated while hiking?

Drink small sips of water often. Carry enough water for your hike and bring a way to purify more if needed. Do not wait until you feel thirsty to drink.

See also

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How Do I Know If My Bag Is Waterproof?

Choosing the Right Waterproof Grade for Your Bag

Expert Advice on Using Waterproof Bags for Water Sports Kayaking