As an avid hiker with a fear of open heights, I’ve always taken outdoor safety seriously. Safety should always be your number one priority, especially if you’re a solo traveler like myself. But enjoying the great outdoors comes with a great risk too. That’s why I put together this outdoor safety guide, specifically for hikers so that everyone can enjoy their time in nature safely and responsibly. 

---

I was compensated for this post. This post also contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links at no extra cost to you. Please see full disclosure for more information.

---

Outdoor Safety Precautions to Take Before Your Hike

Research Trail and Terrain

It’s very important to research the trail you’re hiking in advance to be well prepared. I absolutely love AllTrails as you can find plenty of information on so many trails around the world. Here are a few things you need to consider when doing your research:

• Check the trail’s difficulty level and elevation gain to make sure it matches your fitness level.
• Check the trail’s recent reviews online, as well as any updates on its conditions, closures, or potential hazards.
• Understand the type and nature of the terrain – is it rocky, sandy, wet, or forested? This will help you prep for it.

Weather Considerations

• Always check the weather forecast in advance and try to be aware of any potential changes throughout the day or trip if it’s a multi-day hike. I once went on a multi-day hike in Saint Catherine and we ended up changing our route due to weather conditions, but our guides made us well aware of this potentially happening so we managed to be prepped for it.
• Make sure to pack gear and clothing suitable for rain, wind, or sudden temperature drops. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
• Dress in layers so you can layer up or layer down according to the weather conditions.

Appropriate Gear and Clothing

It’s important to wear/pack appropriate gear and clothing most suitable for the hike’s conditions. I find creating a checklist very helpful. Here are a few things you will probably need:

• Waterproof jacket or windbreaker
• Down jacket if you’re hiking in cold weather
• Insulating layers such as fleece and thermals
• Sun protection such as hat and sunscreen
• Hiking poles can be helpful for some people on some trails
• Sturdy hiking boots

A more elaborate packing list can be curated depending on the nature of the hike – the duration, terrain, weather conditions, etc.. So, don’t assume these are all and the only things you’ll need. 

But speaking of hiking boots, let me give you some tips on choosing the right hiking boots:

1. Try them using the socks you’ll be wearing – make sure the sock has a higher neck than your shoes to avoid blisters.
2. Put your index finger behind your ankle to make sure the shoes aren’t too tight.
3. Make sure your heal isn’t moving up and down and that it’s well-supported.
4. Always opt for ankle support.
5. Pick a suitable material depending on the nature of the terrain. If you’ll be hiking in various environments, go for something versatile.
6. Try out the new shoes at the end of the day when your feet are already worn out to see whether it’s comfy enough or not.
7. Break in your shoes by wearing them multiple times before any big hike to avoid blisters.

Packing Outdoor Safety Essentials

While putting your packing list together, make sure to include the following items that you’ll carry specifically for safety purposes:

• First-Aid kit: Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, blister treatment, muscle relaxant, and any personal medication.
• Navigation tools such as a map of the trail (preferably a physical one), a compass, or a GPS app.
• Lightsource such as a headlamp or flashlight along with some extra batteries just in case you get caught out after dark.
• Multi-tool or Swiss knife.
• Emergency whistle.
• Lighter or box of matches to start a fire.
• Space blanket to stay warm if needed.
• Extra food and water.

Travel Medical Insurance

Since we’re on the topic of outdoor safety, it’s crucial to mention getting insured. Unfortunately, that’s something a lot of travelers neglect, thinking they might not need it. But believe it or not, travel mishaps are way more common than you think. And if adventure travel activities are involved, the risks are definitely higher. 

My favorite travel medical insurance is hands down SafetyWing’s Nomad Insurance – I talk all about why that’s the case in this blog post. Their insurance policy covers activities in more than 175 countries around the world. Also, they just launched Nomad 2.0 which covers 30+ adventure sports, including hiking and mountaineering, in general, at elevations under 6,000 meters of altitude. It’s also worth mentioning that another new add-on covers the theft of electronics. So, you can travel with your action camera, or other electronic devices, with your mind at ease.

Learn more about Nomad 2.0 here!

Navigation Safety

Different Methods of Navigation

There are various ways to navigate a trail, so make sure to learn about them all to stay on the safe side. Here are a few trail navigation tips:

• Familiarize yourself with the rail map before you start your hike by highlighting the key landmarks and trail markers. 
• Learn how to use a compass. 
• Don’t rely completely on your GPS app. You need to learn how to navigate using a traditional map and a compass in case your phone dies or you lose signal.
• It’s also best if you download offline maps as an extra safety precaution. 
• Practice using all the previously mentioned tools in advance before attempting to hike a remote or challenging terrain.

Tips for Staying on the Trail and Avoid Getting Lost

• Stay vigilant and pay attention to trail markers. If it’s been a while since the last time you saw one, double-check your location and make sure you’re still on the right path. 
• Check your map or GPS regularly to make sure you’re still on the right path.
• Stay on marked trails and avoid unmarked paths or shortcuts.
• If you’re hiking with a group or a guide, stick to them, especially if you’re in a remote area with no frequent hikers.

What to Do If You Get Lost?

In the unfortunate event of getting lost, make sure to follow these tips:

• Stay calm! If I learned one thing from solo traveling, in general, it’s that panicking will definitely lead to poor decision-making. So, take a moment to breathe, think, and try to assess your situation.
• Try to retrace your steps to the last point where you were sure of your exact location.
• If you fail to retrace your steps, it’s best to stay put, especially if it’s getting dark. It’ll most probably be safer to stay in one spot and signal for help instead.
• If there’s no emergency hotline or there’s no cell coverage, you can signal for help using a whistle, a mirror/reflective surface to reflect sunlight, or flashing a bright-colored item to grab attention.

Physical Health and Outdoor Safety

Tips for Maintaining Physical Stamina

• Pace yourself by starting your hike at a comfortable, steady pace. You can gradually increase your pace as you warm up, but keep a steady pace in order not to wear yourself out.
• Stop for short breaks regularly and remember to hydrate and not just rest.
• Aim for shaded areas for your short breaks to cool down, especially if you’re hiking in hot conditions.
• Practice controlled breathing to maintain your energy levels.

Hydration and Nutrition Advice

• Drink water in small amounts but regularly, even if you’re not feeling thirsty. Dehydration can hit you when you least expect it.
• Invest in a hydration bladder if you can get your hands on one for easy access. If that’s not possible, make sure to place your water bottle somewhere that you can access easily.
• Don’t forget to pack ORS sachets (oral rehydration solutions) or electrolyte tablets/drinks for when dehydration kicks in.
• Pack high-energy snacks like nuts, dried fruits, or energy bars.
• For longer hikes, bring along easy-to-pack meals like sandwiches or salads. 

Injury Prevention and Knowing Your Limits

• Make sure to break in the hiking shoes you’ll be wearing beforehand.
• Use hiking sticks to reduce strain on knees, especially on steeper descents.
• Pack ankle and knee support, as well as a muscle relaxant, just in case.
• Stretch before and after your hike to prevent cramps.
• Know your limits and don’t push yourself beyond them if you feel any signs of fatigue or injury.
• If you sense fatigue or injury on the way, cut your hike short to eliminate higher risks. 

Wildlife and Environmental Safety

Encountering Wildlife – Do’s & Don’ts

• DO: Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising wild animals. 
• DO: Keep a safe distance from all wildlife – wild animals aren’t to be petted.
• DO: Learn about the wildlife on trails you’ll be hiking and learn what to do in specific wildlife encounters.
• DON’T feed animals – this can alter their behavior, potentially making them more dangerous.
• DON’T throw organic waste on the trail. Yes, I once thought this was okay too, but guess what? This can also alter the ecosystem as animals will find food more easily now and will attract them to trails, making it more dangerous for other hikers.

Managing Environmental Hazards

Environmental hazards can include rivers, cliffs, or unstable terrains – here are a few tips to practice outdoor safety in such cases:

• Try to keep away from ledges, especially if you’re hiking in wet or windy conditions. 
• Be careful on loose gravel or wet rocks; use your hands for more balance.
• Avoid crossing a river if the current is strong or if the water level is higher than usual.
• Watch your step especially if you’re walking on rocky, muddy, or uneven surfaces.
• Take small steps, carefully, and it’s best if you use hiking sticks for more stability.

Hiking With Others V.S Solo Hiking in Terms of Outdoor Safety

Outdoor Safety Benefits of Hiking With Others

• Hiking in a group guarantees having someone to assist in case of an emergency such as an injury.
• Being in a group also means there’s shared responsibility for navigation. So, the odds of being lost are much less, especially if it’s a guided hike. 
• There’s an added sense of security that comes with not being alone in the wilderness.

Tips for Solo Hiking

Even though I usually travel solo, I still prefer to join a group for the previously mentioned benefits. I either book a spot through a trusted tour operator or check my hostel’s available excursions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet people and make new friends with similar interests, so it’s a win-win! 

However, if you’re unable to join a group, then here are a few tips to bear in mind when hiking solo:

• Inform someone back home and back at the hostel of your plans. 
• Carry an AirTag or have a friend track your phone via the Find My app.
• Pick a trail with a clear map that you can have access to.
• Download the offline map of the trail just in case you find yourself with no coverage.
• Pick a popular trail where you will most likely come across other hikers.
• Hike during the day and avoid evening hikes.
• Make sure you get the emergency hotline and look up the evacuation instructions.
• Try to be extra cautious about all the previously mentioned outdoor safety precautions since you won’t have help nearby. 

Hiking is an incredibly exciting and equally rewarding activity, but outdoor safety is a matter that needs to be taken seriously. That’s why careful preparation and staying safe while you enjoy the hike is vital for an unforgettable experience. So, don’t forget to pin this blog post for your next outdoor adventure.

---

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance!

Travel (solo or not) isn’t always rainbows and butterflies – things might go down south sometimes. You might fall ill or lose your luggage, and that’s when you’ll thank me for having your back covered with travel insurance.

SafetyWing offers different travel insurance packages, tailored to your needs, but their Nomad Insurance is my favorite option.

This travel medical insurance is perfect for frequent travelers. It covers lost checked luggage, travel delay, doctors, hospitals, and more. It even covers the COVID-19 emergency quarantine period if deemed necessary by a physician.

GET INSURED NOW – Nomad Insurance

---

Sharing is caring!

You might also like:

• Nomad Insurance: 6 Reasons Why Travel Insurance Is Essential
• 9 Proven Tips for Hiking Beginners – First Time on Trail

Meanwhile, if you like my content and would like to see more of it, subscribe to my newsletter here.