Trekking is a great outdoor sport for many people. It arouses in most a heightened appreciation a greater appreciation of nature. It is the perfect weekend or even day time activity to get away from the hustle and bustle of modern city life, and has proven time and time again to be a great way for friends and families to participate in an activity together.
One of the things that most trekkers admit to after years on the trial is that they were never really ready during their first trek. It seems that most people on their first hikes are ill-equipped and ill-attired to tackle trails and mountains.
While trekking is one of those outdoor hobbies that does not require an exquisite set of skills, save for good balance, endurance, and gait, it still remains that there things pointers that can make your trekking experience be it for the first time or not a lot more enjoyable.
Location First of all, you do have to know where you are going. If you are going for an easy stroll with other experienced trekkers, you will not have to worry too much about this. Your leaders will probably know the area well and will have sufficient skills to get you to the top and back.
Of course, if you are going on a trek without a guide for the first time in a foreign area (that is not so much advised), you will need orienteering skills and a good map. Of course, it would be better if you tried places you know better first rather than tackle hard and unknown areas early on.
You should build your hiking skills, with manageable treks that you are familiar with at first. Guides can help you tackle harder and less hospitable trails. When you are confident in your skill, you can then try moving on to the harder trails.
Gear
1. Clothing
Trekkers have various gear depending on the condition of the trek. But as a rule you should wear light, weather resistant, rugged wear. It would be better if it drew away moisture from the skin. Cotton is a no no, especially in cold conditions, or even very hot ones. A hat would do well in extreme conditions as well both to keep away the sun and to protect the head during extreme cold.
2. Hiking Boots
A good pair of hiking boots is also important for trekkers. Sneakers are not usually advised as your boots should be able to weather a good beating, the elements, and water. Also, hiking boots should have aggressive treads patterns to make hiking on difficult surfaces a lot easier.
Wet rocks, muddy trails, and dusty surfaces can be terrible for most hikers, especially the new ones. Good boots will help make tackling steep inclines and hard trails more manageable.
3. Backpack or Daypack Necessities
Aside from boots you will definitely need a good backpack to carry supplies and other necessities. Water bottles are also necessary for any trek. You need to keep yourself hydrated during the trek since you are sure to sweat a lot. Food should also take up a good amount of space in your bag, just make sure you pack food that is compact, is not fussy to prepare, and delivers energy quickly and efficiently to the body.
If you plant to do heavy trekking in adverse conditions, you will need to have your pack weather the same kind of conditions. Try for waterproof packs that have rain covers for optimum protection. Take along some plastic bags to keep your trash in during the trek.
4. Weather Gear
Depending on the weather, you may need to take along extra gear. When it rains you may need light raincoats or ponchos to keep the cold and the rain away from your packs and your body. Sunglasses are great for sunny treks and will save your eyes from too much sun exposure. You may also want to consider sun block when going for treks that will put you under the sun for extended periods.
5. First Aid Kits
Tumbles often occur during treks, so you will need first aid kits to treat cuts, scrapes, and other injuries. You will also need some ointment against allergic rashes that may occur due to exposure to dust, plants, and animals.
