Hiking is a popular outdoor activity with numerous benefits. Studies have shown that it prevents osteoporosis and reduces depression and anxiety. Our minds and bodies are naturally connected to the world around us. And although it's exciting to be out there in nature, it's not always as easy as it seems.

Hiking can be unpredictable, challenging, and intimidating if you don't take the proper steps. Knowing how to plan can ensure a safe and fun experience. With that in mind, here are seven essential tips for a great hiking trip.
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Hiking Tips
1. Start Training
The word "training" might seem intimidating, but it's much less complicated than you imagine. Instead of conjuring up images of heavy weightlifting, replace the phrase training with "preparation."
As a beginner, you need basic training to ensure you're physically fit to complete a successful mountain trip. Training increases the strength of your major muscles, improves your balance, and builds endurance. If you can't go to the gym, you can do some yoga and light cardio at home to increase your muscle strength and flexibility.
When exercising for a hiking trip, you should focus on your foot muscles before gradually building up the other parts of your body to withstand any strain hiking places on your body.
2. Choose the Right Vehicle
Naturally, you might want to hike somewhere far from home—perhaps in a different state or even a different country. You may need to navigate rocky roads and uneven terrain. The last thing you want to deal with on a hike is vehicle problems to and from your trailhead.
Before you hit the road, get your vehicle checked for proper maintenance and ensure that it has the appropriate insurance in case of an emergency. For example, if you had a Q7—a great model for offroading—you might consider looking into Audi extended warranties for coverage beyond your basic manufacturer offering.
3. Get the Right Gear
You wouldn't go hiking in flip-flops and loose shorts—but you'd be surprised how many people make critical gear mistakes when mountain hiking. What you'll need on your hike will depend on your trip, but the basics are the same across the board.
For instance, reliable hiking boots are always necessary no matter where you're going. Good hiking boots strike a balance between support, functionality, and stability.
You also need layered, lightweight clothing; merino wool is a reliable hiking option. Other essentials include a first aid kit, plenty of water, a knife or multi-use tool, and healthy snacks.
4. Don't Overextend Yourself
Let's imagine you have friends who are hiking aficionados and embarking on an 8-mile loop trip. You decide to join them—even though you've never hiked before. In this case, you will not only become exhausted before the end of the hike but also lose track of your friends.
When hiking, choose trails you can complete that are within your range of ability. Get familiar with the hike before you go. As you continue walking, you can increase your training plan by an extra mile or two miles weekly until you become a pro.
5. Bring a Map
A map is essential for hiking, particularly in national parks, thru-hiking trails, and trails with nuanced terrain. It's not unusual for hikers to get lost on the trail. Although chances are you have your phone, you never know what can happen.
If your phone dies, falls, and breaks, or if you get lost, you need a backup navigation option, and nothing is more surefire than a physical map. If it's raining, you can put your paper map in a Ziploc bag and continue reading it.
6. Pack for the Weather
The weather is one of the most unpredictable factors when hiking. You can't be sure if it will rain on your hiking day. Check the forecast a few days before your hike and hours before you take off. It helps to take the "better safe than sorry" approach and pack a lightweight rain jacket even if the weather recently suggested it wouldn't rain.
7. Pace Yourself
Some people arrive at the trail feeling like they can go around twice without feeling tired. As a result, they start with a lot of energy. Some even start running or jogging at the beginning.
However, hiking is not a marathon race. If you don't pick a pace you can maintain throughout the hike, you won't finish. The people you tried to leave behind will walk past you without breaking a sweat. But you'll have used up all your energy.
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