Travel

6 Tips for Hiking Alone

Many hikers go out alone, either because they do not find those who accompany them on their walks, or simply, because they enjoy being alone with nature. In any case, this means that they do not have someone close to help them if there is a problem. Therefore, it never hurts to remember these 6 tips for hiking alone, and even more when you are traveling.

1. Prepare your itinerary

Do it carefully. In fact, you can spend more time planning than on the road. You should start researching and planning your tour maybe one year in advance so as not to neglect any details.
Check the permits you must collect (depending on the area or country you choose) and save enough money to cover all your needs.
Find maps, information, and details of the path you want to hike. Most of the most popular long journeys among hikers are well marked and very busy, so you can easily find the information.
If you wish, you can carry a compass or off-grid GPS tracker and have printed trail guides and maps.

2. Notify someone of your departure

No one leaves home, or hotel, thinking that you will have an accident, but the possibility exists. You can get lost and be isolated in an area without mobile coverage. If you do not return at a specific time, those who were aware of your trip will be able to notify the rescue services and report what your route would be.

3. Be aware of your limits

Even if you think you are in good shape, do not risk making a path that is too difficult or too long. Remember that you are alone. It is not a competition either, so if you think you may have some difficulty, come back and avoid an exhaustion injury.

4. Try to anticipate possible inconveniences

Calculate more time than indicated to make the route, in case you want to rest or stop to take pictures, and confirm if there is any shelter next to the route you are going to do – in case of rain – or points to get drinking water. Always carry with you what is necessary for a sudden weather change: raincoat, hat, flashlight, nuts or chocolate, etc.

5. Find out about the weather forecast

Make sure the weather conditions provided for the area in which you are going to move, and do not challenge the forces of nature, especially if the forecast gives possibilities of rain, winds or other phenomena that could affect you. Every year numerous accidents occur, even among experienced hikers, because they are too confident.

6. Take the 10 essentials

You must take the 10 essentials in any adventure, but when you walk alone, they are more important. If something goes wrong, you must be prepared to build a fire, treat wounds or survive the elements on your own.