Tag: Hiking

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Breathing Tips to Improve Hiking Experience

Tyler Grasham Hiking Photo

Hiking remains my passion; after many years I still look forward to the next hiking adventure. In this post, I will be writing about some essential breathing tips you need to know before going on your next hiking adventure.

I am sure many people will agree that hiking on paths that lead them to higher altitudes is an amazing experience. At the highest point, you can reach the level of oxygen may be low because of the altitude. However, that won’t stop you from enjoying the experience and view at the top.

You will also find the tips I have compiled for this post helpful if you are just going on a normal but long hike. If you are the one who needs to rest very often when you go on a hiking trip, this post will also be an interesting read for you.

During a hiking experience, many parts of your body work together to help you get through the amazing experience. Your heart and lungs are like the ‘engines’ that support your muscles (arms and legs) during a hike. This is how it works; your lungs ensure breathing supplies enough oxygen to the bloodstream. This blood rich in oxygen is then circulated in your body, reaching the muscles in your arms and legs to support the work, and improve your endurance.

If you find out that you run out of breath too quickly during a hiking adventure, you are probably breathing in a wrong pattern, hence the sudden feeling of exhaustion soon after you start walking along the path you have chosen for hiking. – Tyler Grasham

 

Here are my top tips to help you enjoy a better hiking adventure without feeling exhausted or running out of breath too quickly;

Slow rhythmic breathing

You can gain more endurance by breathing slowly following a particular rhythm. This breathing pattern ensures your heart rate is consistent and your muscles get a steady supply of oxygen during the hiking experience.

Count your steps

You may learn to do this subconsciously over time, what’s more, after a few experiences; your mind becomes used to the breathing pattern. Counting your steps helps you avoid straining too much which can distort your breathing pattern when the heartbeat increases. So count your steps and flow with the inhale/exhale pattern.

Breathing through your nose

There have been many debates about breathing through your nose during a hiking exercise. It helps to protect your from allergens in the outdoors if you are prone to allergic reactions. However, from my experience breathing through the mouth is more effective. So, if you are worried about allergens, this is what you can do- inhale through your nostrils and exhale through your mouth. This way you can get enough oxygen in your blood to reach the muscles working so hard during the hiking experience.

It is also important to plan your hiking, know where the stops are and when to drink some water. When is your next hiking trip? Try these tips and don’t forget to share your experience.

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How to Keep Your Property Safe When Hiking

Tyler Grasham Backpack for Hiking

It is important that you go with the right hiking gear and equipment during every hiking adventure. It is easy to overlook some stuff that may not seem very relevant, but you can never tell. Everything should be complete before you head out to enjoy an amazing hiking experience.

Your choice of hiking gear will depend on the trail you have chosen. However, there is some basic hiking equipment you must always have in your gear every time you go hiking. For example, you must carry along flashlights (even if you plan to go hiking and return before the sun goes down), water bottles, hunting knives, mobile phones, hats, sunglasses, cameras, compass or a map of the hiking trail, medication, and other essential tools you need.

Hiking is an exciting experience, it is now recommended to people for its health benefits, however, and hiking becomes a hobby after a while because it is quite addictive. Hiking ranks at the top when you mention favorite outdoor activities. When you go hiking, you can say it was a wonderful trip when you return safely with all your gear intact.

However, there have been so many cases where people report missing items; sadly they did not know where or when these items got lost during the hike. I will be writing about some tips and methods you can use to prevent your hiking stuff from getting lost.

It can be frustrating if you have to buy new hiking equipment for your gear every time; the following tips will help you avoid this situation;

Make an inventory

You can start by writing an inventory to identify all the items you have prepared to carry along during the trip. Your inventory should include the smallest and largest items. Study your inventory to know how these items can be securely stored.

Use a good hiking backpack

There are special backpacks that have been designed for hikers. These backpacks are designed to have multiple compartments where you can store your hiking gear securely. After studying your inventory, you can select the most appropriate places to store each of your hiking equipment.

Packing for your hiking trip

You should pack up your hiking items carefully; all items should be placed in the bag and securely locked. Backpacks can have zippers or secure clasps; you should check to ensure they are working properly.

Choose the right hiking clothes

You can choose clothes such as shirts and shorts that have extra pockets for storing stuff. You can keep small items such as mobile phones and hunting knives in your pockets to reach them easily when necessary.

Replace items in your backpacks

During breaks or when you need to take anything out of your hiking backpack, always ensure you keep it back into the backpack. For example, water bottles should be kept and secured after drinking.

It is also important that you keep all the compartments of your backpack locked at all times even after taking stuff out. No worries, this can quickly become a habit after a while. If it is convenient, you can also take a quick inventory to ensure nothing is lost.

There you go, apply these tips to avoid losing valuable stuff when next you go hiking. – Tyler Grasham

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A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TO HIKING

Tyler Grasham Photo of a hike

Hiking is an outdoor activity that involves going for long walks across country or states in natural environments such as mountains and other scenic terrain. Hiking is a popular activity among fun lovers and those who like adventure, people usually hike on hiking trails. It has gotten so much attention and recognition across the globe that there are a couple of hiking organizations.

An interesting part of hiking is that it offers several health benefits such as reducing hypertension, weight loss, and it can also boost mental health. Also, there are different hiking types which include challenging hikes, moderate hikes, multi-day hikes, and easy walks among others. Hiking is one of the common things people can do to enhance both their mental and physical health.

Why Go Hiking?

  • It requires absolutely nothing to go hiking or to get started so you can always decide to go hiking whenever you are free.
  • It is an amazing way to get familiar and explore your surroundings.
  • It is a great option to go on a date with a loved one.
  • It is a great way to bond well with family, friends, and colleagues.

Hiking is a way to have great fun as you are relaxed knowing fully well that you are just out there to have the fun of your life while you appreciate the beauty of nature and your environment.

How to Plan for Your Hiking Adventure

It is important to have a proper plan and roadmap of where you will cover when you go hiking, remember safety is key in whenever you need to go out to have fun. Hence, you need to get the proper hiking gears in order to be fully protected and to avoid injuries. The hiking gears you need depends on the type of hiking you are going from and the duration of your hiking. You need to go with a hiking boots or shoes, water, first aid kit, a compass, and GPS among others. Here are some of the plans and things you need to put in place when you want to go hiking;

  • Decide How Long: Before you set out to go hiking, make sure you have in mind an idea of the distance you wish to cover. If you are going on a hike that will cover only few distance, then you might not need to pack a tent, or go with extra clothes.
  • Decide if you are Going Alone: Some people however like to go hiking alone just to have a kind of personal reflection. However, it is more fun when you have the company of may be friends or family, and going alone might even be dangerous especially if you are going for hikes that will take more than a day. Hence, if you decide to go alone, make sure you allow people to know where you are going and the places you will be covering, also go with your phone and power bank.
  • Decide your Hiking Location: Select your location carefully and know your limit especially if you are a newbie. Select locations that are easily accessible but if you are going with friends who are more experienced, then you can go into more adventurous locations.

The bottom line here is that hiking is a great way to take a break out of the hassles of your daily activities, it helps to calm your nerves and you are not under pressure, you are just out there to relax and enjoy. – Tyler Grasham

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How To Prepare For A Hiking Trip

Tyler Grasham Hiking Picture

Hiking is fun, hiking is thrilling. Hiking is adventurous, but hiking can turn out to be very risky. So should you miss out on the many pleasures of hiking because of its dangers? The answer is no. What you should do instead is make adequate preparation when going on a hiking trip, and by so doing, you will up the goods of hiking and reduce the dangers to the barest minimum.

Choose Your Trail And Research It

If you’re going on a hike, you should have a good idea of what’s in store for you. Choose where you’re going to hike and make sure it is accessible and risk-free. Where you are going to hike and the length of your hike should be according to your physical ability so you don’t end up going on a trip that is too tasking for you. Try to find out as much as you can on where you’re hiking so you know enough about where you’re going and what to expect.

Make Sure You Are Fit For The Trip

If you are not fit for the trip, do not think of the trip. Hiking is a challenging sport, and as such, you should be physically prepared when going for a hike. Make sure your all-round fitness level is high enough, do exercises, Yoga might even help to up your fitness.

Carry A Friend Along

Hiking alone may have its own advantages but it is highly recommended that you hike with a friend or more. You have that friend that makes a very interesting company, or that friend that never stops talking about hiking, take them with you. However too large hiking groups are not advisable, but a small company of friends is good to go. You may never know what would happen along the way, a helping hand might be very helpful.

Tell Someone About Your Hike

Someone at home should know about your whereabouts when you go for a hike. Leave information behind about where you’re going, when you leave and what time you’re supposed to get back. Also, make sure you notify the person when you get back from the hike. This ensures that if any unforeseen event happens, the person would know what to do and how to get help.

Dress For The Occasion

Go for a hike, but while you’re at it, wear clothes that will not be a drawback. Wear clothes with textures that are comfortable on the skin, with lightweight boots that are fitting and at the same time have space for the toes to move around. Rub sunscreen too.

Pack The Right Gear

Hiking is aided by some equipment and it is paramount that you carry them along when going on a trip. A cellphone, whistle, compass, map, insect repellents, flashlight, raincoat, and a fire starter are some of the things you should have invited your backpack when going for a hike. But at the same time, do not pack like you’re traveling overseas.

Pack Light Food And Plenty Of Water

You’re sure to get thirsty when going on a hiking trip. So make sure you carry enough liters of water with you, depending on how long your trip is. You should also make sure you are well hydrated before going on a trip. The food you should pack should be very nutritious, but light as well. This will ensure that you get enough energy you need for the trip and don’t get weighed down as a result of heavy food.

Carry A First Aid Kit

A stitch in time saves nine. There might be mishaps during a hike. Having a first aid kit with proper medicine and equipment inside would have take charge of such situations before they get out of hand. Bruises, cuts or some other form of hurt might occur so you have to be prepared to switch to nurse mode and handle it properly.

Know When To Stop

Four hundred meters to the end of your trip, you run out of water, you’re badly hurt or it’s dark, turn around and go home. Yes, you’re very close to the end of the trip, but you are even closer to getting into avoidable danger. Turn off your competitive spirit and stop the hike. You will live to hike another day.

These tips are golden and if you adhere to them, you would certainly have your best hike trip yet. Happy hiking! – Tyler Grasham

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How To Improve Your Hiking

Tyler Grasham‘s tips on improving hiking

Have you ever tried to hike before? How did it go? Chances are that you were out of breath and tired before you got to half of the way. You probably were of the opinion that you would never try hiking again, at least not until you get some help on how to improve your hiking.

Truly, hiking is a tiresome activity, but with some help, you can improve your hiking experience and endurance. Here are some ways by which you can do so.

1.    Get the Right Gear

Everything is easy when the right tools are used. You cannot expect a gardener to use a fork when he should use a rake. Invest in a pair of quality hiking boots. You don’t need to buy the fancy expensive ones, but you would need to buy boots based on the kind of terrain that you intend to hike.

You would also need to get good socks to accompany the boots. Wool socks that are above the ankle or the ones with anatomic shapes will serve you best.

2.    Train Ahead

Now that you have your gear ready, you need to train for the hike. It is no secret that more fit you are the better. So if you feel that you are not fit enough, you should start exercising.

Take walks around your neighborhood, use the stairwells at every chance you get instead of the elevator or escalator. You could also decide to start spin classes or go on smaller hikes depending on your level of fitness.

3.    Measure your cadence

Cadence has to do with the steps you take and how consistent they are in time and length. You would want to make sure that you pick a pace that you can keep for hours.

Don’t start the hike too fast or quickly because that is one sure way to wear yourself out. Keep your steps short and steady.

4.    Work your lungs

Taking deeper breaths would help to prevent fatigue providing your muscles with oxygen that they so need.

Also when climbing do not hunch. Hunching might seem like the right thing to do, after all, you want to watch your stepping. The thing about hunching though is that it restricts breathing which is not good for hiking.

Conclusion

Hiking can be so memorable especially when you reach the summit of the hill you intend to climb. It would be a sad story if you don’t get to see that amazing view.

Follow the recommendations above, and you are sure to get on top. Also, don’t forget to stay hydrated and hike in areas that are safe and legal.

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How Hiking Is Exercise For The Body and The Mind

Tyler Grasham mind stress relief

Did you know that hiking as it were, is not only a fun providing activity? Yes, the importance of hiking activities goes beyond the associated leisure and recreational benefits that come with it. Now, they have been found to bring some essential significance to the body and mind of the hiker. As such, it is essential for people to understand how this activity helps the body, so that it encourages more people to engage in it- with a more informed mindset.

The relevance of hiking in improving overall body and mind functions

The following are some of the proven relevance of hiking, to the way your body and mind performs in the short and long run:

•    Helps improve cardiovascular functions

Research has shown that regular hikers are more likely to have a comparatively improved cardiovascular health. This is because climbing activities help strengthen the heart- as a result of increased heart rates during the duration of the activity. Consequently, chances of coming down with the some of the common heart diseases, are considerably reduced.

•    Helps relaxes the mind and eases off stress

Hiking activities help ease your mind of anxiety and stress. It can achieve this since the activity triggers the release of soothing endorphins. By this, we can say it is a better way to wear off the culminating effects of the tedious everyday work activities and their many tasking requirements on the mind.

•    Effective in boosting bone density

Note that hiking is classified as a body weight-bearing activity, and as such, exercises the bones to gather some required density. The effect of this is a strengthened body bone framework, which implies reduced chances for fragile incompetent bones, and other diseases like osteoporosis.

•    Helps in body weight control programs

If you need an effective calorie-shedding road-map, then you should consider implementing a scheduled hiking program for yourself. Tyler Grasham believes that since the climbing activity is characterized by increased energy use, the hiker tends to lose more calories by this singular. Hence, hiking provides an effective, cheap, and safe way to losing weight.

Now when starting out on your hiking program, it is important to ensure that you’re well prepared for each time you go out. Make sure you’re sufficiently hydrated for each time you’re on the move; this means you should always have water with you. In addition, you should get a guide who can provide all the support you may need

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Enjoying Nature While Hiking

Hiking Quote
httpswww.hillwalktours.comwalking-hiking-blogwp-contentuploads201702Inspirational-Hiking-Quote-Hiking-Is-A-Bit-Like-Life.jpg.jpg

If you are a lover of nature and everything in it, then we are certain you will love hiking. Hiking is one of the best ways to be in direct contact with nature while getting a great workout in the process. A lot of people go on hikes and end up focusing completely on the workout while missing out on the beautiful natural scenery laid out before them. In this post, we will share some tips that can help you take in the full beauty of nature while hiking for exercise. Talk about a win-win situation!

Take many breaks

It’s easy to just keep walking without stopping to take in the beauty of your surroundings and this often happens when you are completely focused on exercising. To enjoy nature in its full glory while hiking, take more breaks mid-walk and just do as little as looking around you, taking a picture or breathing in deeply. This makes all the difference in the world as you will get a good workout and a great view of your environment.

Observe animals from a safe distance

You can only enjoy the full beauty of wild animals when you are not in their faces. Pick a safe spot and just spend a minute to bask in their presence. This will help you appreciate nature a bit more and give you a great sense of inner peace.

Observe Hiking Etiquette

Yes, Hiking Etiquette! There is a great chance that you won’t be hiking alone as this is an activity loved by a lot of people. If you are in a group, try to keep it classy and quiet so you don’t distract others from getting a great scenic experience. Also, wearing bright colors might be a source of distraction to other hikers, so try to keep your choice of clothes subtle and with dim colors.

Leave things where you found them

This might be the hardest thing to do as nature has so many stunning pieces that you just want to take home with you. However, it is important that you leave items such as shells, precious stones etc. where you found them so others can have a chance to enjoy it too.

Hiking is a great experience and an awesome way to appreciate nature! If you are a lover of the activity, try to take note of the tips in this post as not only will they give you a great experience, they will also make hiking beautiful for others.

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A Beginner’s Guide to Hiking

Tyler Grasham Runyon Canyon

Tyler Grasham believes that hiking is an activity that is beneficial to the human body , aside from the fun it brings, it helps to battle depression and stress.

It is an exercise that helps to strengthen the muscles, reduce body weight, boosts the density of the bones, strengthen the hips and legs, helps with body stability, reduce the probability of heart problems,  improve  blood sugar level, blood pressure and it is also a great way to get in tune with nature to help clear your mind.

According to Tyler Grasham, hiking is more than taking long and laborious walks outside; there are things to consider before you decide to pick your boots and go hiking.

Before you go hiking, these are the basic and tangible things you need to know:

You need to choose the trail you’re walking on. Don’t pick an unknown destination for starters. Work with your immediate environment.

Decide how far you are going. You need to decide for how long you are hiking. You don’t need a very long distance for starters, choose a short trail you can work with, as you progress, you can lengthen your trail.

Decide if you’re hiking with company or going solo. If you are the type who likes company, you can join other hikers.  But if you need an alone time by yourself, then you need to go solo.

Get acquainted with your chosen trail. As soon as you have chosen your hiking trail, get a map of the place, to familiarize yourself with every nook and cranny of the trail. You can also check online for reviews about the location.

Notify your folks about your trip. Don’t just up and leave. Make sure someone close to you is aware of your movement. Tell them your itinerary, so that they can know when to send out search parties, in case you’re not back by the expected time of arrival.

Check the weather forecast. The weather will determine what you’re bringing with you, your attire, how long and how far you’re hiking.

Dress for the occasion. There are the right clothes and shoes for hiking. Get yourself quality hiking socks, shoes or boots, wool top, and nerdy or light sporty pants. Don’t do cotton materials. Hats and gloves are optional.

Things you need in your backpack. Because you’re a beginner, you need not carry a heavy backpack. You need a light backpack so as not to get tired easily. These are the list of things you need for your hiking :

  • Water bottle containing at least a liter of water. You need a liter for every one hour.
  • Sunglasses and sunscreens. You don’t want to have sunburns after your hiking.
  • Trekking Pole. It helps reduce stress on the knees. Provides extra support, strength, and stability.
  • Map/Compass. You don’t want to get lost. You need a map and a compass to navigate your way around. The good thing about compasses is they are lightweight, can’t run out of power and can function in any weather.
  • GPS Tracker. In addition to a compass, you need a tracker to send our SOS alert in case of an emergency.
  • Cell Phone. You can’t be away from your mobile phone during hiking. You might need to get in touch with anyone on your phone.
  • First aid kit. This is needed in case of injuries like broken knees, ankle sprain, and emergency health issues.
  • Flashlight / Lighter. For making light in a dark place. Or to make a bonfire if you decide to camp overnight on your trail.
  • Knife. For protection against trespassing humans and dangerous animals like bears and snakes.
  • Blanket /shelter (tent). This is needed in case you decide to camp overnight.
  • Insect/ animal repellent. To ward off insects and animals.
  • Food. You don’t need to go with heavy meals. Light snacks like fruits (apples and banana will do), crackers and nuts will suffice.

Don’t leave any trace. Make sure the only thing you have trailing your hike is your footprints. Don’t litter your trail with dirt. Ensure you keep your trail clean.

With this information, I believe you’re good to go on your hiking trip, and you have all it takes to have an amazing hiking trip.

 

 

 

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Top Ten Benefits of Hiking

For a long time, hiking has been known to be beneficial to the overall human health. It has been known to cure a whole lot of health challenges. Hiking benefits your physical, mental and social health in more ways than one, and it can be proved in the ways highlighted below, by Tyler Grasham.

Tones the Entire Body

Hiking regularly can tone up your entire body, especially your lower body region. Even better, carrying backpacks while hiking can increase the endurance level of your upper body as well.

Clear Your Mind

A mental health benefit of hiking is that it clears your mind from everything and anything you might have been worrying about, especially if you hike in areas around the countryside. You get to smell the fresh air and enjoy the magnificent views. This makes you appreciate the beauty of nature even more.

Disconnect from The World

In this technological age that we’re in, our heads are always buried in one gadget or the other. Hiking takes you away from screen time and allows you to see the world in its natural and vulnerable state. This can help to relieve forms of fatigue.

Increased Creativity

Since hiking is done outdoors, it increases your attention span and creativity when you come back into the real world.

Improves Mental Health

Hiking can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and fear in humans. It has a way of making one forget about life worries and live in the moment.

It Aids Quick Healing

After the body must have recovered from chronic illnesses like cancer, hiking can aid the entire healing process and prevent further health challenges.

Aids Weight Loss

If you’re not a fan of gyms and intense workout sessions, you can still lose weight by hiking. The weight loss would be visible when you hike up to two times in a week.

Diabetes Control

Hiking in a regular basis prevents and controls the level of blood sugar in your body system. It works by giving your entire muscles the perfect workout it needs to move glucose all around the bloodstream.

Socialization

Hiking helps you meet new people with different and multi-faceted backgrounds. It can help you develop a bond, especially when you choose a buddy or partner to hike with at an appointed time.

Curbs Depression

Hiking is one of the therapies that help people suffering from chronic depression to get better. With hiking, they can feel less suicidal and become happier people for themselves and those around them.

Hiking is not something you get good at in a day; you need to start gradually. At the initial stages, it is advisable that you hike for short periods of time. After that, you can gradually move up to high terrains and hills. In no time, you’ll get a hang of it.

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SAFETY TIPS FOR HIKING

Tyler Grasham picture of trail with Rainbow

Hiking needs proper packing and planning regardless of whether it is a short day hike or a mountain hike, make sure safety is at the forefront of your plans as you lace your boots to set out on the adventure of hiking.

There are a lot of factors that must be considered and planned for if you want to have a good and safe hiking experience. The factors that may cause hiking to go wrong may include thunderstorms a surprise snowstorm, lighting, dangerous wildlife or an unstable rock pattern are all kinds of hazards that may be encountered when you go hiking. Make sure you are in a good physical and mental condition and also pay close attention to your surrounding so that you can enjoy yourself.

Tyler Grasham's Hiking Safety tips Info-Graphic
Hiking Safety Tips

The following safety tips are important when you go hiking;

Make a Gear List: whether you are going for a short hiking that includes few hours or you are going for hiking that may take day, you don’t want to have a horrible time. Hence, it is important to make a list of everything you need before heading out; there are some items that are a must have, these include water, extra water, map, compass, rain gear, and extra food.

Map: this is probably the most important item that you should have when you are going for a hike. Do not rely solely on GPS as there might be limited service and the battery power might disappoint. Make sure you have a map and also learn how to read it. GPS should only serve as a backup plan for you and if at all you must go with one, then you should also get a power bank fully charged in case the battery runs down, you will be able to use the power bank to charge it.

Know the Area: Make sure you are familiar with the area you are going, check for the following information before heading out:

  • Local poisonous plants
  • Local hunting seasons and areas
  • Local wild animals and ensure you know what to do when you come across any

Hike During the Day: have it in your plan to schedule your hiking during the day; it is much easier to get lost in the dark and there may be wild animals in the area you are hiking so it is safer to go during the day.

Check the Weather Forecast: make sure you put the weather condition into consideration up on to the time you leave. This will help you know what kind of gear that you will need whether it is a sunscreen, rain jacket, warmer clothing or extra water in case of a hot weather. In case the weather forecast indicates the possibility of a rainfall, make sure the trail you will be passing through will not be slippery and will still be passable in such conditions.

Be Confident: know what you can do and what you cannot do whether you are hiking alone or you are hiking with a group of friends. When you are hiking with your friends you may be persuaded to do something you are not prepared for, make sure you are careful so that you do not risk getting injured. Know your limits and be honest with your level of skill so that you don’t get into trouble.

Keep Your Location Known: Tell people around you before you go hiking. This is very important so that you can let them know when you are going and when you will be coming back so that when they don’t see you they can make attempts to look out for you.

Stay Together: when hiking with a group make sure you are together as it is safer to be together than isolated when you go hiking with friends.

Stick to Your Plan:  Always maintain your designated trail

Keep Hydrated: Go with enough water and sports drinks, taking alcohol or soda when you go hiking can cause dehydration.

Wear Boots: make sure you have something sturdy on your feet that will provide good ankle support.

Pack Light:  Make sure you carry only what you need, avoid carrying items you will not lead so that you can have less load to deal with.

Hiking is fun when you have the necessary items in place, if you haven’t tried why not give it a trial in your next vacation and you are sure to be in for a good time and I’m sure you will thank me later.