(To new hikers) Don’t overreach on outdoor trips
Many students who have just finished the gaokao and college students want to try being “hikers” for the first time. But they often lack the knowledge and experience for loaded hiking. Come check out travel tips with the editors of HowToTrip.
Make sure to bring all necessary gear and supplies
Before setting off, understand your physical condition, carefully study the route, and learn about the road conditions and transportation—such as which sections require resupply, and which stretches have gravel or similar hazards.
When preparing gear and supplies in advance, they can be divided into essentials and optional items. A mobile phone, warm clothing, water, food, and medicine are “essentials”; shoes, socks, knee pads, trekking poles, headlamps, flashlights, lightweight raincoats, and the like are optional.
Generally speaking, for hiking, you should bring two pairs of shoes made of different materials and with different insoles (for example, lightweight running shoes and hiking boots). Switch shoes every hour and alternate between walking and light jogging. This reduces foot pressure, engages more leg muscle groups, and helps you walk longer distances.
Walking technique matters
Hiking is a full-body activity. The ideal pace is one where you’re walking without gasping for breath; avoid frequently alternating between fast and slow, or running and stopping—try to maintain a consistent speed. Use arm swings to balance your body and adjust your stride. Stay relaxed on flat terrain, using your thighs to drive your calves. On other terrains, vary your walking posture periodically, such as combining walking with jogging.
If your toes or the soles of your feet start to hurt, avoid walking only on one side of your foot, as doing so for too long can be extremely painful. Since you’re carrying a heavy backpack, your shoulders bear a lot of weight—hike with your back straight and use deep abdominal breathing.
Bring enough food
While hiking, it’s not advisable for hikers to eat high-fat, high-protein, hard-to-digest foods like meat. Carbohydrates are the main source of energy for the human body, easy to digest, and capable of rapidly releasing energy, so you should pack grain-based foods such as porridge, rice, noodles, pasta, and steamed buns, along with easy-to-digest options like fruits, vegetables, and sports drinks.
New hikers shouldn’t push themselves to finish the entire journey. If your joints feel uncomfortable or you’re overly fatigued, prioritize your health and wisely choose to turn back.
HowToTrip, your outdoor adventure and self-drive travel website.