Hiking trips: Explore the world on foot

Hiking shoes

The most important thing to consider before starting a hike is footwear. Be sure to wear shoes that are sufficiently worn in, as hiking in new shoes often equals painful blisters. While trainers are usually suitable for easy hikes on even terrain, the more difficult and irregular the terrain, the sturdier your shoes should be. Ankle-high hiking boots will help protect against ankle injuries.

Pirate tip: Always buy hiking boots one size big! When you walk for a long time, your feet tend to swell, meaning your normal size can quickly become too small. In addition, hiking socks are thicker than regular socks, because they are reinforced for your weak spots and provide extra protection against bruising. For this reason, it's best to try on hiking boots with the socks you plan to hike in. Keep in mind that hiking boots are considered "worn in" after about four weeks of hiking or 50 kilometres.

Clothing

After you've found the right shoes, it's time to move on to proper attire. Of course, the clothes you need depend largely on the season you'll be traveling as well as the region, but there are still a few basic rules. While hiking you should dress in three layers: the base layer, the mid-layer, and the outer layer. If you coordinate your layers correctly, you'll be comfortable no matter the weather.

Base Layer: Merino wool t-shirts are best suited for your base layer. Unlike cotton, wool keeps you warm even when it gets wet. Synthetic fabric t-shirts are also an option, but those who are on the move for several days should be aware that synthetic fibres begin to smell faster than merino wool.

Mid-Layer: The best choice is a fleece jacket with a zipper that can be worn open or closed.

Outer Layer: Either a down jacket, a windbreaker, or a raincoat, depending on the season and the climate.

Backpacks

There are plenty of practical hiking backpacks for day trips, many of which have a capacity of about 20 litres. The longer the hike, the heavier and more complex the equipment will be—and the more important it is to have a good backpack. Your backpack should sit correctly on your back and provide freedom of movement.

Pirate tip: What good is the most expensive, high-quality backpack if it's not properly adjusted to your body? It's best to buy a backpack in person, so the experts in the store can give you advice on how to use the backpack correctly and adjust it to your body.

Other equipment

When it comes to packing, less is more. You will have to carry everything you pack in your backpack all the way to your destination. You should carefully consider what is truly useful and what may be unnecessary. Here are the things you should definitely pack for your hiking trip:

A change of t-shirt, socks, and underwear

Rain pants and/or raincoat (optional: rain cover for your backpack)

Sunscreen and sunglasses for sunny weather, gloves and a hat for cold weather