First Walking Holiday – Do’s Don’ts and Tips to Keep in Mind 

Are you going on your first walking holiday? We don’t blame you if you are super excited and can’t wait for the holiday to get started. After all, it is a great location, and you are eager to explore and experience the walking tour to the full. A walking holiday is the perfect way for sightseeing or relaxing and plus you get so much flexibility to stop on the way and spend some time at beautiful viewpoints.

But before you set off for your walking trip, which may last for a couple of days or a long weekend, have you spent some time to pause and see that you are covered in all aspects? As a first timer, there are certain things that you need to keep in mind.

At Mickledore, you will learn not just about the right spots to enjoy the best walking holidays but also get valuable information and tips. The walking specialists carry ample experience in hiking and will give you plenty of advice and directions.

Meanwhile, just go through the following do’s don’ts and tips to keep in mind on your first walking holiday.

The Do’s

• Focus on the kind of trip you want and where, and plan your itinerary based on how long you want the trip and if you want to stay in one location or explore. Read some articles and reviews before planning a trip.
• Keep your comfort zone and stamina to walk in mind, or you may ruin your holiday if you attempt something that simply tires you out. As some trials can be challenging, it is not advisable to just head for any kind of route.
• Take a guided walk if possible if this is your first time, as some routes may not be well marked. During the walk, one has to make a lot of decisions, and it can be difficult for a first timer if the walks are a bit harder.
• Borrow outdoor gear from friends and family if you do not have a good pair of walking shoes and a walking stick. You can even use a locally sourced wooden stick instead of the walking poles. Learn from your experience to see if you need to invest in some walking gear.
• Always carry water to stay hydrated and first-time walkers often make the mistake of carrying less than two liters. It is a good idea to drink quite a bit of liquid before you start your walk and flush your system.
• Choose a walking trail based on your fitness and stamina and how far you can walk in a day. Each route requires a certain level of fitness and ability, and you must have that level of physical fitness to enjoy your experience. Scottish trails are some of the best to try like Rob Roy Way and Great Glen Way.
• Consult your doctor before going on the trip as he may have suggestions and advice for you, especially if you have some medical issues. You need to know how to manage those conditions and what medications to take during your trip.
• Consider the climate and weather conditions of the chosen destination. Most walkers prefer to stay away from areas with extreme weather conditions, as bad weather can easily spoil the whole trip. Study the weather conditions and forecasts before you plan anything.
• Adjust the backpack correctly, or your shoulders will soon be aching badly. Use the stabilizing straps around the shoulders and chest and make sure that the weight is evenly distributed with the help of the belt and the tensioners.
• Stay protected from the sun, especially if hiking in the highlands or near water, as the sun rays are stronger on those edges. Always use sensors and wear hats and UV-absorbing sunglasses. Cover your skin with UV-based moisturizer.

The Don’ts

• Do not carry excessive luggage as you may face difficulties getting it transported between hotels or from one accommodation to the next. It is a bad idea to plan a walking tour with too many bags as that is only a waste of time and effort.
• Do not go on a walking trip that doesn’t suit your skills and stamina, as that can turn out to be hazardous for you. If you are still not sure, it is wiser to spend some time raising your fitness level and feel confident about yourself.
• Do not be a part of a group if your fitness level is low, as you may end up slowing the whole group, and that can annoy some people. Thus, you need to be mindful of your fitness, as well as others in the group, when out for a walking holiday.
• Do not opt for pacing on your first trip, as it would force you to be at a certain place by a certain time. As a first timer, you may find it a bit challenging as you might worry too much about packing and may not enjoy the trip.
• Do not invest in any special gear for a walking trip as that can be quite expensive. To be honest, most people already have the basic essential gear, and which is a good pair of walking shoes, a small rucksack, and a waterproof jacket.
• Do not wear clothing that is stuffy and restricting. Your clothing to suit the conditions and should be light, protective, and comfortable. The main objective is to keep the body safe and hydrated.

Some additional tips

• Avoid peak months and bad weather for your walking trips. Consider booking locations with lesser crowds and pleasant weather.
• Always check the time zone and the daylight hours, which can vary greatly during the summers and winters.
• If the days are short, start off early to ensure that you get back in time before it gets dark, as some routes are long.
• Just make sure that there is drinkable water available on the route, and it is indeed worth carrying water sterilizer tablets.
• If there are no toilets, make use of the terrain and vegetation discreetly and carry some toilet paper with you.
• Learn how to use a compass for general direction in case you have to navigate a route and find the directions.
• Always carry a printed map, the name and address of your destination, and route notes for added safety.
• Consider carrying a small umbrella, a flask, a small pen knife, and basic medical aid for the trip.

Get ready for a sense of real adventure and enjoy the great outdoors during a well-planned walking holiday. Do not just plunge in before doing a bit more preparation. The ultimate goal of any walking trip is to enjoy the experience and arrive at your destination in a more relaxed and cheerful mood. There is no point in going for a walking holiday that leaves you grumpy and tired. Just follow the above tips and guidelines to plan an excellent walking trip alone or with your friends and family.