Hiking 101: What First Timers Need to Know

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Hiking is a fun pastime that combines nature, the outdoors and exercise - making a superb hobby for both mental and physical health. And if you're new to it and you're just thinking about getting involved, here are of the very basic tips to know!

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If you’re on the hunt for a hobby but struggle to find one that fits your needs, perhaps beginning hiking might be the perfect activity for you.

With its copious mental and physical health benefits, we love to see people getting involved!

Hiking is a simple activity well-suited for beginners and is accessible to pretty much everyone. Putting on a pair of boots and some basic hiking gear, going out in nature for a little adventure is something most people can do right away.

 

It’s good for fitness, and overall physical health. It’s great to take your mind off things, among the vast greenery and serenity. Not to mention, exploring forests, mountaintops, and discovering rivers sets people on a course for some unforgettable adventure. 

 

So, without further ado, let’s get you filled in on how to prepare for your first hiking adventure and what to know before going hiking.

 

Hiking Benefits

Hiking is so much more than just an outdoor venture into the unknown. It’s a form of therapy that helps in so many ways, from mental to physical. Besides greatly reducing the risk of heart disease, beginning hiking builds muscle and overall strength.

 

Hiking 101 is knowing the many benefits it brings. Beginning hiking increases your heart rate as an amazing aerobic activity. Not only that but it actively engages your muscles to further strengthen them. Carrying some beginner hiking gear on your back can also lead to more developed upper body strength, too.

 

Beyond the physical benefits, some of the best hiking for beginners reduces stress from everyday life and can calm the mind. In conjunction with physical activity and some basic hiking gear, hiking outdoors can improve cognitive function and better concentration when on an outing.

 

One of the first tips for first-time hikers might include fostering a connection with nature, and it’s a perfect first step to follow. When you stay safe while hiking you also stop paying attention to technology and reconnect with the real world outdoors.

 

If you’re unsure of how to start hiking, it’s really that simple. All you might need is some hiking gear for beginners, some knowledge on what to know before going hiking and learning to stay safe while hiking. It’s one of the most accessible forms of exercise you can go out and do every day.

 

With some basic hiking gear, it’s a wonderful low-impact exercise for anyone, of any fitness level, to take part in after learning what to know before going hiking.

What to Know Before Your First Hike

First-time hiking tips usually begin with some information. While browsing the Internet for Leovegas, it would be wise to open up a new tab to research hiking trails and choose a route best suited for beginners. Tips for first-time hikers are to look for trails with rest stops, and good cell service when first starting.        

 

Another hiking 101 tip is to always be mindful of weather conditions when setting out. You may have purchased some hiking must-haves for beginners, but that may not guarantee safety during heavy rain or a storm. Always carry a jacket for situations like these, and make sure to start earlier in the day, because the heat on a sunny day can be just as tricky to overcome.

 

Hiking gear for beginners is another way to ensure you stay safe while hiking. Good hiking boots with a solid grip can make all the difference when traversing a difficult outdoor terrain. Another thing to put on your basic hiking gear list is waterproof clothing. These can keep you warm and dry if any weather changes occur.

If you’re just beginning hiking, start small. It’s not a competition against anyone. It’s important to stay safe while hiking. Choosing a difficult path right away can lead to massive exhaustion, potentially put you in danger, and overall become an unpleasant experience, which is not what beginning hiking should be. Once you get the hang of it, you can upgrade your basic hiking gear and choose a more challenging route next time.

 

Beginning hiking can usually mean you overlook a small detail, and that is not bringing enough water. It’s a thing usually taken for granted and packing enough of it is one of the best tips for first-time hikers you can receive.

 

Finally, after figuring out how to prepare for your first hiking adventure, always notify somebody close to you of where you’re going. Let them know the trail you’ll be going on and how long you intend to spend there. This will make sure somebody is there to notify the authorities should something serious happen.

Essential Hiking Gear for Beginners

When picking out beginner hiking gear, focus on things that are both practical and affordable. When first beginning hiking, tips for first-time hikers are to start with a good pair of boots, some comfortable and warm pants, shirts, and a waterproof jacket.

 

These don’t have to be top-of-the-line items when researching how to start hiking. Beginner hiking gear should be items that are both comfortable and reliable. Good basic hiking gear is something that’ll help you stay safe while hiking.

Basic Hiking Gear Checklist

The first thing when setting out to buy hiking gear for beginners is some sturdy hiking shoes or boots. Bringing appropriate footwear protects your feet, and helps you navigate the more unforgiving parts of the terrain the outdoors might have in store for you. Comfortable boots with good traction will make you stay safe while hiking.

 

Proper clothing will help you regulate body temperature, and keep you comfortable when beginning hiking. Breathable clothing can also wick away sweat, and carrying a jacket on any occasion keeps you safe and prepared for any weather changes.

 

A daypack is a perfect accessory, one of the hiking must-haves for beginners. It can organize all your essential items, from water to snacks, or even gear. Being able to carry everything with you in a neat fashion can help you stay organized.

 

Hiking 101: always bring enough water. Keeping water around your person at all times helps you stay safe while hiking. Dehydration is a very real thing, so water bottles or a hydration pack are some of the best tips for first-time hikers.

 

When researching how to prepare for your first hiking adventure, make sure to put a first aid kit on that list. Injuries, scratches, or sometimes bleeding can happen, so some bandages, antiseptic wipes, or even pain relievers are a good idea when beginning hiking.

Hiking Must-Haves for Safety

When beginning hiking, it’s important to stay safe while hiking. So some basic hiking gear should have the following:


  • Navigation: Maps, compasses, or a GPS device are necessary. Getting lost is a very real risk, so bringing a map helps you stay safe while hiking. 
  • Sunscreen: Sunburn is also a factor to take into account. Besides causing dehydration, the sun can also cause sudden heat strokes. Bringing some sunscreen with your beginner hiking gear can help combat this.
  • Multitools: A multitool can help you get out of many situations, and most of them have a pocket knife. They have a wide range of uses like cutting rope, opening packaging, or even removing splinters, so they’re hiking must-haves for beginners.
  • Emergency whistle: If you’re lost, a whistle is one of the most simple tools to have around. It can be heard over quite a distance and can signal that you’re lost or injured.

 

While accessible, hiking can be unpredictable. Knowing to stay safe while hiking goes a long way in making for a pleasant experience.

Hiking Must-Haves for Safety

Beginning hiking doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to buy the most expensive gear there is. There are other options available.


  • Second-Hand Hiking: Plenty of thrift stores around have good beginner hiking gear to buy. These can be cost-effective alternatives, and you just might find items in excellent condition.
  • Rentals: Renting out basic hiking gear when starting is great if you’re unsure whether to commit to a purchase. Renting is also great if you don’t go out on hikes very often.
  • Affordable brands: Beginning hiking with clothes from affordable brands should ease you into the world of hiking. These can be reliable, and comfortable and can sometimes be hiking must-haves for beginners.

How to Prepare for Your First Hiking Adventure

Beginning hiking is wonderful, and sometimes, preparing for it physically can help you stay safe while hiking. Light physical training to build endurance can help you cover long distances. Daily walks around your neighborhood, climbing stairs, or some lower body and core exercises can help you overcome the more physically demanding parts of the hiking journey.

 

Preparing yourself mentally on how to start hiking is half the battle. Being focused can help you stay safe while hiking and tackle challenging terrain or weather changes. Research the trail you’re taking, and set realistic goals.

 

Packing snacks and enough water are good tips for first-time hikers. Hiking burns calories and saps your energy, so making sure you have enough on you can help you stay energized and focused.

 

Bring multiple layers on your adventure as part of basic hiking gear. The weather can shift suddenly, so being prepared for every possibility goes a long way. Don’t rush into it, it’s not a race. Pace yourself when on the trail, take it as easy as you need to, so you can conserve your energy and stay safe while hiking.

 

Beginning hiking also means taking some more safety precautions. Sticking to marked trails and being aware of your surroundings can help you identify any dangers coming your way. Starting early also means you get to avoid most of the heat during the day and enjoy the cooler temperatures.

Your First Hiking Adventure

In this hiking beginner’s guide, you’ve learned the importance of acquiring hiking must-haves for beginners, what to bring, what to pack, and how to stay safe while hiking.

 

Hiking is an activity accessible to everyone, there’s plenty of nature to discover, it can bring you lasting physical and mental benefits, and, when done right, can be a satisfying activity to enjoy.

So, pack some water, snacks, and some basic hiking gear, and get out there and discover the world around you.

 

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