Things to Look into Before Going to Hiking and Camping Trips
Know your skill
Hiking is a physically demanding outdoor activity. And when we say physical, we mean moving more muscles than you usually do for a prolonged period of time, which, when the body is not prepared may result to injury. Thus, it is very important that you recognize first what you can and cannot do. Choose a hike that your body can handle. Know how long can you walk and how long can you stay outdoor. Hiking and camping should be a fun experience. Do not spoil it by trying to conquer a terrain you cannot handle.
Tell a friend
Think of this: If you will go to a hiking or camping trip alone, who will take your pictures behind great view? Who will tell you that your hiking shoes are untied? Seriously, hiking or camping alone is unsafe. Ask a friend to come with you – a friend who does not mind to get his hands dirty, who has an experience with difficult terrain, who has some accidents and missteps, and who has been in a bad situation before. Do not attempt to hike and camp. Discuss your plan with a friend and make sure that you both understand it before you go.
Check the weather
We all know the weather forecast is often inaccurate. Nonetheless, you have to listen to what the weatherman says before you even try to pack your bag and head outdoor. Remember that a sunny day could turn into a life threatening storm in an hour. And a clear terrain can be turned into a muddy one on a 10-minute pour.
It may not or may not happen, but you have to anticipate the worst possible situation. Better come out well-prepared and well-protected. Do not forget to bring raingear and appropriate clothing when you go hiking or camping. Always keep in touch with the nature and dont just go marvel them with your mouth open. Be aware of the changes in the cloud pattern. Be conscious with the air temperature.
Check the terrain
Any hiking and camping park has a detailed topographic map so that, a rookie like you will understand well the terrain before actually going there. Going on a 5-mile trek? Dont forget to check on the elevation. Both the distance of the hike and elevation of the ground will tell you how difficult the trip is. Learn to read the map with a compass and start planning your hike and where are the good places to take your rest. Using your map, prepare for an emergency plan. Make sure that the map is current. Terrain changes every time so better get an updated one on your hand.
Check on Permits
You may be already aware of the permit requirements issued by wilderness areas and national parks. Some these are free of change while others are very expensive. Make sure that you check on permits of your hiking and camping location.
Tell another friend
Do not forget to tell to another friend back at home where you are going. This is like telling someone about your trip, when you go abroad. Detailed information about your start time, exact route, end time, and times in between should be disclosed to your friend so that if something goes out of the plan, they will know where to find you .