Tips For Beginners
- tcdhikingclub
- Nov 22, 2019
- 2 min read

Future Hikers!! You don’t think you can go on a hike without any preparation, do you? I get it, nature is your air, your passion, your life, but wait for it!! Let us give you some unavoidable tips before throwing yourself in the unknown.
1. Pitch your tent at home
First of them all, make sure you know how to plant your tent before you go in nature, alone. Indeed, it could be a major issue if you realize to late you don’t have a clue of how to plant it!!
2. Pack as light as possible
Can sound stupid but it is actually a very good tip. People don’t think about it that often, but it can be a huge burden if you are not able to walk long distances with your package. I know you want to take everything with you because you think it will be useful, but you have to make a choice!! And the good one!!!
3. Plan simple meals
That is true! You don’t need gastronomic food up there! I mean, come on, less is more.
4. Choose an easy destination
Don’t think of climbing Himalayas the very first time! Choose an easy destination, something nice that you will enjoy but not something too hard.
5. Tell someone where you’re going
Sounds obvious but yes, it is really important. If something happens to you it is essential that someone knows where you are… you know… just in case!
6. Research up-to-date weather
Once you’ve chosen a backpacking destination, you need to look up the weather for that area. Knowing how the weather’s going to behave while you’re there makes a big difference in being comfortable… or not. If there’s a chance it’s going to rain, you’ll need rain gear (we’ll talk more about gear in a second). If it’s going to get cold at night, you may need a warmer sleeping bag.
7. Know the regulations before you go
Many national parks and regulated areas require you to have permits and may only issue out a specific number of permits during any given time period. If it’s possible, purchase your permits and any passes you’ll need online or over the phone before you go.
8. Buy a local guidebook
Unless you know the region by heart, which would be surprising, bring a guide with you. You never know where you’ll end up and even if you are convinced about the way to take, we are never enough prepared.
9. Understand the field
The types of terrain you’ll conquer during your backpacking trip determine what type of gear you need to bring with you. Indeed, you don’t prepare yourself the same way for every types of the field.
10. Establish a hydration plan
Carrying water is crazy heavy. It doesn’t seem like it, but it is a fact. And remember what we said above, don’t overcharge yourself. Of course, water is completely unavoidable. So establish a hydration plan!!! If there are water sources, figure out when you’re going to reach each one and how much water you’ll need in between.
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