Top Tips for long walks

  • Choose a rucksack that fits well on your body, so it won’t be bothering you (there are special ones adapted for female bodies).
  • When ascending a hill or mountain, slow down and take small steps. That way you will be able to keep going for longer.
  • Don’t rush, you’ll get where you need to be one way or the other.
  • Look behind you regularly, and enjoy the scenery.
  • Make sure you drink enough water, or you might get a headache from dehydration.
  • Rest when you can, you might need the extra energy later on.
  • Wear a cap or hat, it will protect your head from the cold, wind, rain, or sunshine.
  • Always bring waterproof clothes, a raincoat or poncho, raincover for your rucksack, and trousers. You never know if the weather will change.
  • Don’t stay still for too long. Your muscles will cool down and it will be harder to move on.
  • Wear layers that can easily be removed when you get hot, or put on when you get cold.
  • Don’t be afraid to use your hands, when scrambling on rocks or negotiating slippery paths.
  • Don’t be careless (or looking on your phone) on cliff edges. You might think otherwise, but you’re not immortal.
  • Listen to what your body tells you and act on it (for example: full bladder > empty it).
  • Don’t use only paved or level paths, but try to vary the surfaces you walk on. Your muscles will be grateful for not having to deal with the repetitive strain.
  • Use poles when you have trouble keeping your balance or painful knees (when descending from a hill for example).
  • Talk to people along the way. It may brighten their day and makes you feel good as well.
  • When you fall and have to choose between thorny bushes or rusty barbed wire, choose the bushes. A Thorn can easily be pulled out off your skin, but a cut by rusty wire will need to be seen by a doctor.
  • When walking alone (as a woman) don’t be afraid! Men walking in nature won’t have rape on their minds in 99,99% of the cases (they often are just bird watching).
  • Most importantly enjoy your walk and marvel at everything that’s around you. Best of luck!