Winter is cold, and outdoor activities carry certain risks. To ensure safety, be sure to read the following precautions:
1. Do not go alone. Choose a qualified outdoor sports club and guide. For difficult activities, purchase accident insurance.
2. Collect comprehensive information about your destination (weather, terrain, etc.) and avoid traveling in severe weather.
3. Make a detailed action plan and inform your family or friends of your travel details.
4. Based on the previously collected weather data, bring sufficient warm clothing, food, medicine, as well as common hiking gear and snow technical equipment.
5. Strictly follow the planned itinerary. Do not make changes arbitrarily unless there are special circumstances.
6. Upon arriving at the hiking destination, first observe the actual terrain and have a clear understanding. When not camping, choose a route that allows you to return before dark.
7. Before starting the hike, check your shoelaces, etc., and reduce the amount of clothing you wear appropriately. It’s best to wear clothing that contrasts noticeably with white or the surrounding environment.
8. If the area is largely covered in snow, it’s best to wear snow goggles before proceeding.
9. When walking on snow, proceed “step by step,” leaving clear tracks. Be mindful that snowfall may cover your markers.
10. While hiking, remember to stop and admire the scenery only when stationary, and stay focused on the path while walking. Always be aware of changes in the trail and take photos only when ensuring your own safety.
11. During the hike, remember to replenish energy and water at regular intervals.
12. Watch out for falling rocks and wear a helmet if necessary. In case of injury, stay calm, inform your teammates, and find a way to contact those waiting behind. Keep warm.
13. When ascending snowy slopes, do not traverse horizontally across the snow surface, and do not ski when descending to avoid triggering avalanches or causing sliding injuries.
14. Pay attention to changes in your body temperature and adjust your clothing accordingly.
15. Keep electronic devices such as walkie-talkies and mobile phones warm, as batteries drain faster in low temperatures.
16. Be mindful of forest fire prevention.
17. Pay attention to environmental protection.
18. Pace yourself during the hike.
19. Do not act alone during the hike—have someone accompany you even for tasks like using the restroom.
20. After exiting the mountain, immediately inform your family and friends of your location and remaining plans.
Gear
1. Quick-dry underwear. (Essential. Made of synthetic fabric, it wicks sweat away quickly, keeps you dry, prevents hypothermia, and doesn’t cling to your body like cotton.)
2. Gaiters. (Essential. Worn over the lower legs to prevent snow from entering your boots.)
3. Hiking boots (with good grip; mid or high-cut models help protect your ankles)
4. Hiking socks (recommend wool for moisture-wicking and warmth. If uncomfortable, you can wear an extra pair of cotton socks inside.)
5. Crampons. (Worn over hiking boots to provide slip resistance)
6. Insulated water bottle (It’s definitely comforting to have some hot water)
7. Fleece jacket (Wear it over quick-dry underwear for warmth, breathability, and lightness)
8. Down jacket or ski jacket (Warm, lightweight, and breathable)
9. Ski pants (Good windproof and waterproof performance)
10. Sunglasses (Essential to prevent snow blindness and block wind)
11. Trekking poles (Assist in climbing, maintain balance, and test snow depth)
12. Hat and scarf (Pay attention to protecting your ears)
13. Snowboard (Slide down the mountain for fun and excitement, and protect your knees)
14. Ice skates or sleds (For ice entertainment activities)
15. Snowball maker (A tool for making snowballs, essential for snowball fights)
16. Hiking backpack (At least you’ll need a bag to carry all these items)
Cooking gear (Optional for short trips)
1. Stove (Allows you to eat hot food outdoors, one of the little luxuries)
2. Gas canister (Used with the stove, handle with care)
3. Cookware set (For cooking meals, soup, noodles, frying eggs, etc.)
4. Small steel cup (Eco-friendly, can be used for any drink, and as a morning washing cup)
5. Barbecue grill (A fun item to bring on self-driving trips)
Communication
1. Mobile phone (The most common communication tool, signal availability is key, often useless in the wild)
2. Walkie-talkie (Very useful equipment for group activities, allows communication within a certain range, also handy for general use)
3. Survival whistle (Convenient to carry, can also serve as one way for group communication)
Other
Emergency food (Energy bars, chocolate, beef jerky, raisins, energy bars...)
You can also prepare medications as needed (cold medicine, anti-inflammatory drugs, lip balm, hemostatic bandages, band-aids...)