Getting out into the wild holds a fascination that can’t be ignored. The Great Outdoors offers endless possibilities for a wilderness adventure. This is true whether it is a day-long hiking trip or a multi-day backpacking adventure.
The popularity of hiking has recently surged. Perhaps the lockdowns and restrictions that Covid brought have something to do with it.
Whatever the reasons are, hiking and backpacking have become one of the most popular outdoor activities.
In 2021, 58.7 million people went hiking in the United States, and 10.3 million went backpacking. However, to fully embrace the wild safely, preparation must take place.
Plan Your Wilderness Adventure
One of the major risks of heading into the Great Outdoors is a lack of preparation. Many people simply aren’t prepared for the wild.
Consider your comfort levels and your fitness too. Are you prepared physically to tackle the environment you are planning to explore?
Cardio and strength training will make a backpacking trip less arduous and far more enjoyable. You will be able to tackle rougher terrain and travel further. Wilderness trips can be demanding, so it is best to be prepared.
You will also need thorough planning of your itinerary and what equipment to take.
Travel equipment suppliers such as Valley & Peak recommend full preparation before embarking on a wilderness adventure. Safety and comfort always come first in the wild.
How To Prepare
Stumbling off into the outdoors alone with no plan and inadequate gear is equivalent to looking for disaster. Weather can change swiftly, injuries happen, and hikers get lost.
Following the simple steps below and preparing thoroughly will help keep you safe on your trip. And you will enjoy your time far more when you have the right equipment.
1. Research the Environment and Your Route
Check out the areas you are heading to. And research the environment. Understanding the terrain will help you assess whether it meets your comfort zone and skill levels.
Understanding the environment will let you plan more effectively. Look into weather patterns, potential hazards, and wildlife. At this point, you can start mapping and preparing an itinerary.
Map your route and create an itinerary.
Mapping your route is essential for planning the duration of your trip. Look at the difficulty levels of hiking from…
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