Monday, February 3, 2020

Beginner's Guide to Hiking: 4 Tips for an Awesome Hike



One of the best ways to travel on a budget is by foot! Spring is just around the corner, and with more sunshine and less snow in the forecast getting outdoors is an easy and healthy way to lift your spirits and your mood!

Hiking is a prime pastime for Timothy Craig Fant, who is an avid outdoorsman and explorer at heart. Here are 4 tips he recommends that will help any beginner get well on their way to enjoying the great outdoors one step at a time:

2.) Only bring the essentials


Packing light is always the way to go. Overpacking will end up weighing you down and adding unnecessary bulk to your travels. Keep things light - water bottle, sunscreen, cellphone, map, and a whistle. It's always a great idea to bring a few safety essentials with you in case of emergency!

2.) Choose the right trail


If you're new to hiking, try sticking with a trail you're somewhat familiar with. If you're a complete newbie, choose a more open area instead of dense woods. Always begin in the morning and choose a marked trail when possible.

3.) Dress in layers


One thing to know about hiking is the temperature can change drastically through any trail from beginning to end. Depending on time of day, location, shade and difficulty of the trail, your temperature will rise and fall throughout the day. Dressing in lightweight layers allows you to stay comfortable and enjoy the experience!

4.) Travel with a hiking buddy


Not only is traveling with a friend fun, but it's also much safer. If you're unfamiliar with the area and are new to hiking in general, try going with a friend to put your mind at ease. Two minds are always better than one, and making memories with a friend is always a great idea!

Interested in more travel tips? Checkout Timothy Craig Fant's projects on Contently!