Top 5 Mistakes to AVOID this Summer

 

    We all make mistakes, but when you are hiking, or going camping, mistakes can be deadly. Anything from wearing the wrong shoes, to not having enough clean water to drink can be inconvenient at home, but in the woods it can turn into a matter of life and death. Here is my life of top 5 mistakes to AVOID this summer.

5. Over/Under Packing

When getting ready to go on a hike it can be so easy to cram a weeks worth of stuff into your pack, even if you are only going for a day or two. Extra clothes, that really cute sun hat you never get to wear, towels, extra shoes etc can all add weight to your pack that you don't need or want on a long hike. While you may think it is worth the extra weight in your pack, your back and neck will be hating you for it later. Packing light and only bringing the necessities can be scary at first, but once you realize you don't NEED all of that stuff,  you will find yourself less tired and sore than you would with a heavier bag. On the other hand not packing all the necessities can really ruin your hiking experience. Not packing that roll of TP or your rain jacket could make you never want to go hiking again.
Plan ahead, double and triple check that you have only what you NEED, and make sure the weight is comfortable for the hike you are going on.


4. Wearing New Shoes

It can be so tempting to wear those brand new hiking boots, or trail runners on a hike, just remember your feet will be blistered and sore by the end of it. You should buy your shoes at least a few weeks in advance, wear them around your house, or to work to get them broken in, and make sure they are a proper fit. The last thing you want is open blisters and shoes that are too loose/tight in the middle of a a hike. Shoes that aren't fit properly increase your chances of getting injured on the trail as well.


3. Not Enough Food/Water

One of the most common mistakes when people go hiking is not having enough food or fresh water to sustain themselves. A hydration pack, and a bottle of water can go a long way, but it is wise to bring some sort of water filter as well. Running out of drinking water is NO joke, and dehydration can put you in a life or death situation in just a matter of hours. Having something like a LifeStraw that can screw on to your water bottle cap will prevent you from having to boil water, and keep you on the move on the trail. Food is a necessity, and not something you want to skimp on. Trail mix, and protein bars are lightweight and generally filling. For longer hikes, freeze dried meals are the way to go. Avoid bringing canned goods, they will just add too much weight to your bag, and there are plenty of other options.


2. Forgetting To Check The Weather

 Checking the weather is something that people often forget before going out on a hike, sure the sun is shining right now, but tomorrow afternoon might be a different story. When you first start planning your trip, check the weather often, be aware of future storms that could mean changing your plans. It only takes a minute to open a weather app and see what is going on that week. The forecast will determine what you pack, the way you dress, and if you need to change your route or time frame. Hiking in bad weather, especially for beginners can be extremely dangerous, and result in serious injury or a general hated of hiking. No one wants that! Be vigilant and don't forget the forecast!


1. Going Alone

While being alone in nature can do wonders for the mind, body, and soul, for the inexperienced or unequipped hiker it can be deadly. Going hiking with someone who has more experience can really improve your experience on the trail. They are full of tips and knowledge you will benefit from, and if you are injured or sick, the likelihood of getting help is greatly increased. If you are set on going alone, or cannot find someone to go with, make sure someone knows EXACTLY where you are going, and when you are supposed to return. If they don't hear from you by a certain time then they will know to alert authorities to start looking for you. This could really save your life if you are lost or hurt.