Outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and playing sports are exciting and tremendously invigorating. But the flipside of participating in these activities is that if you’re not careful, it can result in serious injuries. When the weather is clear and sunny, many people want to spend the day hiking instead of being cooped up at home. While this is an amazing use of time, it is critical to know how to stay safe while out in nature.
Keep the following tips in mind while planning a hiking trip with family or friends:
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1. Never go hiking alone
Always stick with this rule, since it’s one of the more important ones! If you can’t hike with others, at least inform a friend or family member about the details of your trip. This is purely to safeguard the person going on a hike in case something goes wrong. Hiking with others is always advisable, since there will be more people to help if there is an emergency.
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2. Never go off trail and always try to stick with your pre-planned route
Once again, trailing into the unknown can be very dangerous, and raises your risk of getting injured or lost. As a result, it is highly advisable to always carry a map and compass to ensure that you stay on the right course and reduce the risk of getting lost in the middle of nowhere.
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3. Hydrate
Hydration during any physical exercise is a must, and all the more so during hiking. As you go higher up in the mountains, the oxygen tends to become thinner, leading to trouble breathing. Therefore, it is essential that you keep a water bottle with you at all times, sipping from it at regular intervals. Drink water throughout your hike to ensure you stay hydrated.
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4. Wear the appropriate attire
People going hiking in movies are glamorously dressed more often than not, giving the wrong idea to first time hikers. It is important to avoid wearing things like denim clothes or flip flops, since these hinder mobility. Wear comfortable clothes that allow your skin to breathe. Carry a hat or cap along if you’re hiking in the summer, and ensure your outfit has enough pockets to keep necessities close at hand.
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5. Bring fuel
For snacks, try to carry healthy foods and fruits along instead of chips and other junk foods. You can bring energy bars with you for an instant boost.
