Your walking holiday should be fun and exciting, but it is right to make a safety plan at the same time. Of course, there are a number of different steps that you can take to protect yourself on your next walking adventure and you can prepare these in advance. Here are 7 safety tips for your next walking holiday: –
Choose Your Trail for your walking holiday
Choose a suitable trail or route. What is the terrain like? Is it flat or hilly? Is it suitable for your level of experience? The level of difficulty needs to be determined so that it suits your experience. So trails are good for beginners but others require experience and expertise.
Research the Trail
Once you have decided which hiking trial you would like to hike on, you will want to take the time to fully familiarize yourself with the trail. Get a good map, like an Survey Survey map that covers the area and examine it closely.
You will want to know exactly where you are at all times, as well as how to get out of the area, in the event of an emergency. You can check the reports of other walkers who have used the route on their websites or blogs. And of course take the map with you.
You may find that a reputable walking tours organization covers this trail and provides guides. This may cost a bit more than a self-organized walk, but you may get more out of your walk as a whole.
Mobile Phone / GPS
These days you can be in touch with the outside world even when crossing the most remote regions. Check out emergency numbers for mountain rescue teams and other support groups for the area. Take your mobile phone and or a GPS system so you can be located in an emergency.
Food & Drink for your walking holiday
Some walking adventures last only a day or two. But it is important to be prepared by taking extra rations of water or high protein foods or chocolate. Inclement weather can cause unexpected delays so it makes sense to plan for any contingencies.
Walking Clothing
Make sure you have the correct clothing and footwear. Walking boots are especially important and should be chosen depending on the terrain you are crossing. Is it loose underfoot? Choose a firm walking boot. If it is relatively flat and firm ground, then a more flexible walking boots would be better. Make sure that your clothing will keep you warm and dry. Modern fabrics are breathable – they stop water penetrating your boots and jacket, but allow they allow the moisture that your body produces to be released.
Walking Equipment
We have mentioned mobile phone and GPS systems, but there are some other pieces of equipment that are useful to have. A good compass is essential. Trail poles, a good rucksack, a headlamp or a good torch and a camera or binoculars are all good pieces of equipment depending on your load factors.
Let Someone Know Where You Are Going on your walking holiday
If you are a member of a local walking club, let them know your itinerary. Or the local support groups in the area that you are walking. Or inform some family members or friends – let them know when you are leaving and when you plan to return.
These are just a few of the things that you can prepare to make your next walking holiday safe so that you can enjoy the experience