How to prepare for unexpected hiking challenges

While hiking can be an incredible experience, combining brisk movement with amazing vistas, great conversations, and a sense of accomplishment to top it off at the end, it’s always important to stay safe.

Some unexpected hiking challenges are a possibility, which is why it’s essential to carefully consider how one can work to stay safe as one hikes.

Exploring some of the challenges and hazards that one may face on a hike and providing some safe hiking tips for your hiking safety can alleviate unnecessary hazards.

How to prepare and be safe

Staying hydrated

Hydration is essential. It’s a biological necessity and one of the most important considerations for outdoor preparedness. While staying hydrated might strike one as surprising being at the top of the list, it’s impossible to discuss safety thoroughly without mentioning hydration. What’s more, many people get tired as they hike and fail to realise how thirsty they really are.

Especially important are hikes through wetlands or during the rainy season, when the water around can confuse many and make them forget to drink water. That’s why it’s essential to systematically ensure that you stay hydrated — even if you don’t feel thirsty.

While the exact amount of water to drink can vary from person to person, the United States National Institute of Health (NIH) recommends that human beings drink between 9 and 13 cups of fluid per day.

Footwear

Many first-time hikers don’t recognise the importance of comfortable and protective footwear. However, it cannot be overstated. A great way to protect yourself from the elements is with a good pair of hiking boots.

Hiking puts a lot of wear on the feet, and it’s often helpful for hikers to first “break in” their new hiking boots before they embark on the real deal. Hiking boots are designed to be tough. So tough, in fact, that they sometimes require a little bit of softening before they’re just right for a long hike. If you’ve recently purchased a pair of them, it’s important to break them in until they feel comfortable to walk a long-distance in.

Staying cool

As warm-blooded mammals, human bodies are great at producing heat. The bodies by design are  also pretty good at cooling off when need arises  — but not always. Aside from sweating, the body has no means to cool itself when it gets into dangerous heat levels, and activity can make the body to produce even more heat. If you are starting to feel tired, lose concentration, or feel heat radiating from your skin, it’s important to immediately stop and seek medical attention or seek shelter to cool off. Heat stress is a serious and sometimes life-threatening condition. It can lead to serious consequences, and in some cases can even be fatal.

The bottom line

Hiking can be an incredible experience. When done with preparedness such as remaining cognizant of the dangers of heat, wearing proper footwear that is not only protective but broken in for comfort, and staying hydrated even when you don’t feel thirsty, you can unlock a world of wonder, taking in incredible sights, fulfilling exercise, and much more. By staying prepared, you can protect yourself  from the hidden challenges of hiking and experience a wonderful time.

Discover Africa Safaris takes safety seriously. It’s a top priority, and they are ready to help you so that you don’t need to choose between adventure and safety. To learn more or book your active holiday in Africa today, don’t hesitate to reach out to them to enquire.