With the increasing emphasis on a healthy lifestyle, people are now becoming more particular about their definition of health. As a result, different forms of healthy travel are gaining more popularity, and one of them is outdoor hiking. Hiking is a low-carbon, environmentally friendly, and healthy way of traveling.

It not only provides an opportunity to enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way but also serves as a form of exercise. However, as outdoor hiking requires individuals to face different natural environments, several safety measures need to be taken into consideration. In this article, we will be discussing some dos and don'ts of outdoor hiking.

1. Wear appropriate clothing and shoes

When hiking outdoors, it is essential to wear proper clothing and footwear that protect the body and feet. Select breathable, lightweight, and comfortable clothing and shoes and adjust them accordingly to the changes in weather conditions.

2. Reduce the load as much as possible

Before setting off on a hike, it is important to do what you can to reduce the load. Even if you plan to climb a hill, the walk may take more than four hours.

As a general rule, the load should not exceed 1/4 of your body weight. When descending from a mountain, you should control your rhythm to protect your knees.

3. Keep a steady pace

Keeping a steady pace involves finding a speed and rhythm that suits you. You should avoid accelerating too quickly and abruptly slowing down or stopping.

The human body has a startup process, similar to an engine, and it takes time to enter the "outdoor mode." Although you may feel strenuous at first, maintaining the proper rhythm will allow your body to adjust and make hiking easier.

4. Drink plenty of water

Staying hydrated is essential during outdoor hiking. Drinking water is often overlooked, with many people only drinking when they feel thirsty, which is too late. By this point, the body may already be suffering from severe dehydration, which can affect your body's various functions.

5. Learn to read navigation maps and tracks

Due to the development and popularization of smartphones and outdoor hiking app maps, it is easier to navigate and choose routes than in previous years. Navigation maps play a crucial role in helping hikers judge the direction and choose the appropriate route.

6. Camping considerations

When camping outdoors, it is crucial to look for a safe, sheltered, dry, flat high place. Pay attention to the surrounding environment, such as the risk of falling rocks, wind direction, and the presence of animal nests or beehives.

Avoid camping close to rivers, unless it is during a dry season and the water level is unlikely to change. Also, be mindful of mosquito populations when selecting your campsite.

7. Pay attention to your diet

When hiking outdoors, your body needs enough energy to support your physical activity. Therefore, it is important to choose high-energy foods that are easy to digest.

Select high-calorie foods such as nuts, dried fruits, and biscuits while also ensuring that you consume enough protein and vitamins.

Hiking is a great way to enjoy nature while also being active. However, it is essential to take precautions and ensure that you are properly equipped and informed before setting out on a hike. By following these dos and don'ts for outdoor hiking, you can have a safe and enjoyable experience.