Feeling stressed out, frazzled by the daily grind and in need of some time out? We hear you.
There’s nothing better than a walk in the great outdoors to help clear the mind and reinvigorate the senses. And this doesn’t have to mean a week’s hike up a mountain, either. A simple day or weekend trip away with friends can give you all the emotional (and physical) benefits you need - all it takes is a little planning.
Here are seven things to consider before setting off.
1. The right walking buddies are gold
A hike can be a brilliant bonding experience, so pick a friend or two to go with you. It’s also safer, should anything go wrong. OK, so you might not be faced with wild bears, but should your map-reading skills go awry, then you've got a mate on-hand to help. Even better if they have more hiking experience than you. After all, we're stronger together.
2. Pick the right destination for your schedule
It might be stating the obvious but your route and destination should depend on the amount of time and experience you have. Hiking newbie or only have a Saturday to spare? Find a coastline or forest route that's only a few hours from home. Bit more experience under your belt? Why not set a goal of completing a route against time. As for your kit, for a day's hike all you'll need is a light, comfortable backpack for your day’s essentials.
3. Plan your trip (but not too much)
Head out with a route in mind but remember that there’s beauty in the unexpected, so allow space for flexibility or a change of heart. Taking that surprise path might lead you to a chance wildlife discovery or a stunning view.
4. Your phone is useful. But limit the scroll
While leaving your phone at home to really connect with the great outdoors might feel tempting, your mobile does have its uses. Ditch the guidebook and save space in your bag by downloading a GPS route-finder app. And if you’re not taking a handheld camera, your phone will come in handy for capturing memorable moment with friends, even if it is a sneaky selfie. Top tip: mute your notifications to stop you getting sidetracked.
5. Pack ONLY the essentials
It’s never fun being miles away from home and finding yourself desperately hungry, thirsty or in need of some emergency phone juice. But while packing the essentials is important, so is knowing when to stop. Taking more than you need to (nope, you won’t need your makeup bag) will weigh you down, so think like a pro and carry light. Packing smart and being comfortable will mean you'll be able to enjoy the outdoors for longer.
6. Dress for success
Check your weather app and dress appropriately for the forecast, location and terrain. When space is limited, you need to be savvy with gear. Lightweight technicals such as the Berghaus Tephra Jacket, not only keep you warm for up to 16 hours, even when wet, but the stretch side panels make it less bulky for the pack down and add a stylish touch. The right footwear to keep you steady on uneven ground helps, and trousers that are light and stretch with the body make it easy to move quickly and comfortably.
7. Make friends with nature
It's not just about mud on your boots and twigs in your hair - a hiking trip is the perfect opportunity to tune into nature and take a mental and physical break from the noise and demands of modern day life. Escape into nature, soak up fresh air, feel the endorophins, calm the mind and reconnect with yourself and others. Then return to your daily life recharged and invigorated.
Time to get out. Wherever you go, feel at home in the outdoors with Berghaus
