Hiker Health: How to Prepare for Your Next Backpacking Trip

A backpacking trip is the ideal way to enjoy a hike while taking in some beautiful scenery. Whether you prefer a short day trip, or will be traversing challenging terrain, it is important to make sure you stay healthy. Here are the top tips for preparing for your next backpacking trip that will ensure your health and safety so that you can make the most out of your adventure.

 

Schedule a Pre-Hike Checkup

Although you may feel fine, the last thing you need is to discover a serious health problem while you are out on the trail. Therefore, schedule a pre-hike checkup a week or two before you plan to leave. This way, you can head out for the trail knowing you are in top physical condition.

 

Train on Similar Terrain

Hiking through neighborhood walking trails is quite different from a treacherous trip up a mountain. If possible, find a hiking path that will be similar to the one you plan to visit. As you train, wear the gear you will be taking to make sure that your shoes, backpack and other essentials travel well on the terrain.

 

Pack a First Aid Kit

From overhanging limbs catching your skin, to a minor sprain, you never know what might happen on the trail. Be prepared for anything by packing a first aid kit that has all the essentials. Bandages, gauze, and antiseptic ointment are always important to have on hand. Those who will be traveling in challenging weather conditions may also need to pack protective gear such as a warming blanket in case the trip does not go completely as planned.

 

Treat Your Feet

A hiker’s feet is their most important tool on the trail, and those who hike regularly are prone to common foot conditions such as fungus. Dalhousie Station Foot Clinic offers fungal nail laser treatment in Calgary so that you can make sure your feet are comfortable throughout your hike. Once your feet are treated, be sure to select shoes that are comfortable, breathable, and that have the right kind of tread for the trail’s terrain.

 

Staying healthy on a backpacking trip will ensure that you can enjoy many more adventures in the future. From treating foot conditions from past hikes, to packing a first aid kit, you will enjoy your hiking adventure knowing that you have covered any potential health problems. This way, you can hike the trails in comfort while enjoying every moment of your grand adventure.

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