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Hiking, Camping, Trekking

The Hidden Danger in Your Outdoor Gear: Forever Chemicals

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Recently, there’s been a lot of talk about PFAS “forever chemicals” found in water-repellent outdoor clothing. These chemicals are toxic and linked to cancer. After diving deep into this topic, I realized the situation is far more serious than I initially thought.

How Much of Your Hiking Gear is Toxic?

When you think of toxic hiking gear, you probably imagine rain pants and jackets, right? The truth is, about 90% of the gear in that picture-perfect hiking setup likely contains forever chemicals. Even items you wouldn’t expect, like wool socks, t-shirts, and backpacks, might have them.
PFAS in Outdoor Gear

What Are Forever Chemicals?

Forever chemicals, also called PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), are a group of industrial chemicals made up of a carbon chain surrounded by fluorine. When applied to materials, they magically increase durability, water resistance, oil resistance, and fire resistance. Invented in 1934, they became widely used in the 1950s, with Teflon being a popular example for non-stick cookware.
Over the years, companies like 3M started using Forever chemicals in various products, including cosmetics, carpets, ski wax, pizza boxes, paper coffee cups, and more. In hiking gear, Gore-Tex is a prime example. Forever chemicals is what made Gore-Tex famous, allowing their fabrics to be both water-resistant and breathable.

The Dark Side of PFAS

In 1998, a farmer sued DuPont, blaming their Teflon chemical plant for his cattle’s deaths. This was just the beginning. By 2017, DuPont had settled over 3,500 lawsuits linked to PFOA, a harmful chemical in Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances , often called “forever chemicals,” don’t break down naturally. They persist in the environment for hundreds or even thousands of years. Studies show they’re toxic, linked to cancer, and harmful even in tiny amounts. They build up in our bodies over time, and nearly everyone has them now because they’re in water, soil, and air. Avoiding PFAS is nearly impossible, making them a serious health risk.
PFAS iceberg

The Game of Whack-a-Mole

Starting in the early 2000s, after lawsuits exposed the dangers of Forever chemicals, manufacturers began playing a game of whack-a-mole. When one type of PFAS was banned, they simply switched to another. Forever chemicals is a large group of over 10,000 chemicals, and only a handful are currently banned. While there’s talk of banning them as a group, especially in the EU, it hasn’t happened yet.

PFAS in Outdoor Gear

In 2016, Greenpeace tested over 40 outdoor products, including jackets, trousers, shoes, backpacks, tents, sleeping bags, and gloves from popular brands. They found forever chemicals in all product categories except gloves. Out of the 40 products tested, only four were PFAS-free. PFAS are commonly used in:
  • Waterproof membranes of rain jackets, pants, tents, backpacks, dry sacks, and footwear
  • DWR treatments
  • Treated down
  • Non-stick coatings for cookware
However, many manufacturers unintentionally use PFAS in other products, like base layers, merino socks, cotton or synthetic t-shirts, and more. This happens because they often source materials from third-party suppliers, and there are no laws requiring disclosure of PFAS use.

Why Do Manufacturers Use PFAS?

Manufacturers use PFAS for three main reasons:
  1. They’re cheaper.
  2. They’re easier to use during manufacturing.
  3. They currently offer better technical performance compared to safe alternatives.
The third reason is the biggest hurdle. Safe alternatives can resist water just as well as PFAS while remaining breathable, but they can’t resist stains and oils simultaneously. Over time, these alternatives soak up oils from sweat, sunscreen, and other sources, reducing their effectiveness until washed. In my opinion, this is a small downside compared to the risk of cancer.

The Good News

Luckily, there’s some good news. A few brands have switched to PFAS-free manufacturing as early as 2009, including:
  • Nikwax
  • Páramo
  • Keen Footwear
  • Mystery Ranch
  • Jack Wolfskin
  • Houdini
  • Vaude
  • Polartec
  • Fjällräven
  • Patagonia
  • Deuter
    • Some brands, like Nemo, Arc’teryx, Black Diamond, Marmot, and Mammut, market a few of their existing products as PFAS-free. However, many other brands are dragging their feet, unwilling to switch to safer alternatives.
    PFAS free

    Change is Coming

    Things are about to change. California, New York, Massachusetts, and Maine have introduced laws banning PFAS as a chemical group in most outdoor gear starting as early as 2025. This means brands wanting to sell in these states must go PFAS-free by next year. Companies like Outdoor Research, Outdoor Vitals, and REI have already promised to make the switch.

    Will Your Gear Give You Cancer?

    Probably not directly. You’re not eating or drinking from your Gore-Tex jacket. However, when you wash PFAS-treated gear or it degrades over time, these chemicals are released into the environment, seeping into groundwater, rivers, lakes, and even your tap water.
    The people most affected are those working in factories producing PFAS-laden products or living near these factories, landfills, or airports. Small children are also at risk, as studies show they can have 10 times the concentration of PFAS in their bodies compared to their mothers.

    What Can You Do?

    If you want to stop supporting the PFAS industry:
  • Reach out to lawmakers and demand a ban on fluorocarbons in manufacturing.
  • Stop buying and using products containing PFAS. However, this is easier said than done, as PFAS are found in almost everything.
    • 10 Campsites in California
    Camping, Hiking, Trekking

    Top 10 Campsites in California: Free, Cheap, and Expensive

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    It’s incredible to think that in just one state, you can camp up high in the snow, down low in thick green forests, in deserts or at the beach. California has it all. In this blog, I’ll show you some of the best free, cheap and expensive campsites that you can visit in California. Quick note, the Bureau of Land Management is a government agency charged with basically creating laws to manage the natural and wildlife in the country. If a campsite is BLM approved, rest assured that you can go there and camp anywhere. Here we’ll explain an area and do our best to offer the best campsite, whether that’s an actual site or maybe somewhere you should visit yourself. Remember, it is so important to leave no trace of your camping trip. Pick up your trash.

    Desert Campsites

    1. The Alabama Hills

    The Alabama Hills are located south of the Sierra National Forest and West of the Death Valley. Visitors here can enjoy incredible sights and entertainment including touring movies sets and going horseback riding. The peaks of the Sierra Nevada and the Inyo mountains were formed 100’s of millions of years ago and they are truly a sight to behold. You have the choice here to camp slightly off road for a night staring at the mountains and the sky or to camp at dedicated campsites along ‘Movie Road’. Some of the campsites, which are BLM approved, include Tuttle Creek and the Inyo National Forest Lone Pine campground.
    The Alabama Hills, best Campsite in California

    2. Sawtooth Canyon Campsite, Mojave Desert

    Camping in the desert is a unique experience. Located in the Lucerne Valley off of Highway 247, Sawtooth Canyon looks like a scene straight out of a Western Film. The best time to try this is in the cooler times of the year because of the extreme dry heat, but the vastness of the desert and the reflection of light from the sand into the sky makes a camping trip to the desert something truly unique. It is so quiet and peaceful. Sawtooth Canyon has a number of BLM approved campgrounds and they are mostly located near a climbing wall named ‘Boy Scout Wall’. They have brilliant amenities such as firepits and ready-made BBQ grills. Hunting, rock climbing and hiking are very popular in this area.

    3. The Pads at Death Valley

    The Pads at Death Valley are a unique BLM approved camping spot in the world’s hottest area. They are just off highway 190 and very close to the East Side of the Death Valley National Park entrance. Originally a small mining town, it was deconstructed and only the foundations of homes and buildings are left now. These foundations have become The Pads. Blocks of flat concrete where you can pitch your tent or park your RV. Again, due to the vastness of the desert around here, the night sky is outstanding. People regularly see other planets and shooting stars. Another must see if you want a unique desert experience.

    Mountain Campsites

    4. Keysville, Lake Isabella

    Moving away from the desert a little, Keysville is a small area east of Bakersville on highway 178. In Keysville, there is a small lake called Lake Isabella and lots of BLM approved camping sites including the Recreation Site and the Sandy Flat campground. You can swim and fish in the lake while looking at the snow covered mountains of the Sierra Nevada. There is so much to do here including visiting hot springs and white water rafting. The climate is far more manageable than the humid desert air.

    5. Williams Hill, Big Sur

    Just south of the ‘Big Sur State Park’ is the Williams Hill recreational area. This is a free, BLM approved campsite right on the edge of a mountain. While the drive up may be a bit nerve wrecking, the views and peace will all be worth it. You can go up to about 2,700 feet in altitude and the whole valley is below you. Biking and horseback riding are some of the activities you can get up to while during your down time.

    6 .Yosemite National Park

    There are many different sites in Yosemite. It is such a big area and wild camping isn’t fully legal or recommended. It can very difficult to get a ticket for any Yosemite National park campsite but if you do you have some of the best camping sites available to you. They all range on the spectrum of things to do because of the sheer size of Yosemite National Park. The Upper Pines campground has some incredible views of the valley and has quick shuttle buses to the best sites around. While at the south of the park, ‘Roomy Sites’ has some family friendly campsites and cabins for you and your family to explore the Sequioa trees. This area is great for those who want to explore the Sierra Nevada mountain range.

    7. Ventana Campground, Big Sur

    Ventana Campground, Big Sur
    Located 30 miles south of Carmel, this campsite is one of the best in America. You camp right under the redwood trees and can choose to pitch your own small tent or go all out glamping. You can only camp here with tents and not RV’s but you can park the RV right down the road. The Big Sur is where the huge redwood trees meet the sea. There’s just so much to do around this area including hiking and following the wildlife. The very popular Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is just up the road with lots of things to do. Ventana is relaxed and you feel like you are staying right in the middle of nature because of the forest around you. There are lots of small shops around the area too.

    Beach Campsites

    8. Emerald Bay State Park, Lake Tahoe

    Located south of the lake on highway 89, Emerald Bay State Park is truly a place that you need to see to believe. It is absolutely breathtaking. You have these amazing views of the lake and the mountains. A hikers paradise, with some interesting historical sites to visit including waterfalls, a castle and a beautiful beach. There are kayaks and paddle boards available for rent if you feel the need to get out in to the lake itself. Eagle Bay campground and Emerald Bay Campground are two campsites that you can reserve a spot.

    9. Crystal Cove State Park, Laguna Beach

    We’ve talked about camping in the desert, forests and mountains. Now let’s move right beside the coast. To the beach! Located just off the Pacific Coast Highway between Laguna and Newport, Crystal Cove State Park’s Moro Campground is based right on the cliffs beside the sea. The campsite overlooks the Pacific Ocean and has lots of fun water activities available right there. You can do everything from surfing and kayaking to catching a tan or playing frisbee. Laguna Beach is a beautiful little town so there’s at lot to do here if you want to get away from the campsite and the water.

    10. El Capitan State Beach Camping, Santa Barbara

    El Capitan State Beach Campsite, Santa Barbara
    There are many campsites along the coast of Santa Barbara. This area is a must see spot for campers because of the environment located off Highway 101, about 17 Miles north of Santa Barbara. In this area, you can camp in the forest and make a short hike down to the beach. They are right beside each other and this makes for an amazing camping trip. The water here is stunning and you can explore tidepools, surf or kayak around. The beach offers BBQ opportunities for you and some friends and then you can return to your campsite in the woods just a short walk away. El Capitan is an extremely unique Ocean view campsite.

    Final Thoughts

    It has some of the most amazing viewpoints in the state and gives a feel of what the coast must have looked like hundreds of years ago. So there you have it 10 of the most diverse, beautiful camping spots in California with a little bit of everything thrown in hot deserts, cold mountains, fresh forests and golden beaches. It’s time to root out your tent or fix up that old van and go on an adventure again.
    10 Best Survival Gadgets for Camping and Outdoors
    Camping, Hiking, Trekking

    10 Best Survival Gadgets for Camping and Outdoors

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    When heading into the great outdoors, having the right survival gadgets can make all the difference between a smooth adventure and unexpected challenges. From navigating tough terrains to staying prepared for emergencies, these tools are designed to keep you safe and comfortable. Here’s a list of the 10 best survival gadgets every camper and outdoor enthusiast should have in their gear.

    1. Tentsformer Poncho Shelter

    In 2021 there were roughly 415 million overnight camping trips worldwide so the creators of this Poncho found the right Market this Poncho can turn into a small tent measuring 260 by 125 centimeters and if you need more room you can join two ponchos together with a zipper the medium-sized model weighs 600 grams the package includes six pegs and three guy lines they promise buyers protection from the Sun wind and heavy rain all in a breathable fabric its price is $60.

    2. Wicked Laser Flashtorch

    The folks behind flash torch claim its world’s brightest flashlight it can do some impressive stuff like starting a fire heating water and even melting metal but there are a few catches first the lamp only lasts for about a hundred hours second in its most powerful mode it only runs for 15 minutes on a single charge and thirds, its pretty pricey coming in at $400 plus its quite heavy weighing about a kilogram.
    Wicked Laser Flashtorch Survival Gadget

    3. Survival Laces

    How can you enhance laces for hikers hunters fishermen and other adventurers? According to a scene from the USA you can achieve this by adding paracords to the regular nylon laces. They’ve also cleverly hidden a fishing line a strand of Tinder and a ferrocerium rod inside each shoelace these upgraded laces are available for $15 per pair and you can choose from various lengths ranging from 122 to 213 centimeters. Alternatively for an additional $6 you can get a 122 centimeter cord designed for hoodies and sweatshirts.

    4. Surviveware Duct Tap

    The duct tape will come in handy on your next adventure and its potential uses are only limited by your imagination. You can create a water container make cordage secure a bandage or even prevent blisters on your feet. The tape is five centimeters wide waterproof and strong enough to build a shelter yet you can easily tear it into strips with your bare hands its promoted as the one survival tool you cannot go without and is available for $11 per roll.

    5. Highlimb Branch Saw

    Packs of 51 centimeter bi-directional blade two six meter sections of paracord and weighted handles all of this has been the key to its success. The manufacturer envisions it being handy for tasks like post-storm cleanup pre-hunting season land clearing and taking care of tall trees but its also likely to catch the eye of many hikers plus it comes with a convenient carrying case all for just $50. It is manufactured by the company Camillus which proudly mentions on its website the compass embodies their signature degree of Versatility.

    6. Crossbow

    Here is a look at modern crossbows. This pistol crossbow not only weighs just 1.2 kilograms when fully equipped but also claims the title of the fastest multi-shot crossbow available it can empty a six Arrow magazine in as little as 20 seconds during target shooting. Thanks to its versatile Arrow range its suitable for recreational shooting sports and hunting you can easily hit a rabbit from a distance of around 15 meters. Additionally there’s ample room for upgrades with Picatinny rails for adding laser designators flashlights and other accessories you can purchase this crossbow for $300. And I think this SURVIVAL GADGET is really helpful for you.

    7. Miniature Power Station

    Concept of this SURVIVAL GADGET from the American team in Nomad is quite impressive. This miniature Power Station can literally bring electricity to places that have never had it before you simply place this device about the size of a water bottle into the nearest stream. Its 6400 milliamp hour battery will fully charge in around four and a half hours. The power output of the device ranges from Two and a half to five Watts. What’s remarkable is that it weighs just 800 grams and starts at a price of a hundred and eighty dollars this Innovation received recognition not only from Kickstarter backers who raised over 140000 but also from journalists with even Insider and the guardian covering this technological Marvel.

    8. Zippo

    Clapton once integrated Zippo lighter clicks into a song for the movie Lethal Weapon 3 that is just one of the cool facts about Zippo. But did you know that Zippo is skilled not only in making lighters but also various tools. A fine example is this axe equipped with a saw hammer and hook functions the axe measures 450 millimeters in length with a 127 millimeter blade and a 381 millimeter saw blade. Thanks to the polymer handle it weighs less than two kilograms plus its price is more modest compared to many lighters at just $90.

    9. Shovel

    This SURVIVAL GADGET that I’m going to explain is really impressive. It just under a meter it can take the place of up to 21 different tools including saws, knives and even bottle openers, To ensure durability the designers crafted it from a blend of 440c Steel and 6063 aluminum alloy for those who prefer something more compact. There is also an s-sized version of the same shovel with fewer features it measures 60 centimeters in length the starting price for this handy tool is $89.

    10. Raqwallet

    Environment can also pose various challenges you might unexpectedly need a screwdriver or a flashlight fortunately inventive Minds have created a tactical wallet. Alongside a flashlight and a screwdriver it features a glass cutter a bottle opener and a carabiner eyelet made from aluminum stainless steel and nylon it also offers RFID Card protection a strobe mode and up to three hours of light on a single charge all this for just $75. This SURVIVAL GADGET can help you a lot.

    FAQs

    Essential survival gadgets include a multi-tool, portable water filter, fire starter, compass, first aid kit, and a solar-powered power bank.
    Yes, even for short trips, survival gadgets can be lifesavers in case of unexpected situations like weather changes or minor injuries.
    Consider the type of adventure, weather conditions, and your skill level. Look for durable, lightweight, and multipurpose gadgets.
    Absolutely! Survival gadgets are versatile and ideal for hiking, fishing, backpacking, or any outdoor adventure.
    A first aid kit and a reliable multi-tool are essential for beginners, as they cover basic safety and utility needs.
    Yes, many high-quality survival gadgets are affordable. Research and reviews can help you find reliable options within your budget.
    In addition to survival gadgets, pack insulated clothing, a portable heater, thermal blankets, and fire-starting tools.
    Some gadgets, like multi-tools with blades, may not be allowed in carry-on luggage. Check TSA guidelines before traveling.
    Yes, many survival gadgets, like flashlights, power banks, and multi-tools, are useful in urban emergencies or power outages.
    Hiking Blisters
    Hiking

    How to Avoid Hiking Blisters: My 3 Years of Experience

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    When I was new to hiking I used to get a ton of blisters but then I learned that you’re supposed to get good hiking shoes and Marino wool socks. So I did that and I pretty much stopped getting blisters from day hiking. But whenever I continued hiking for two three or more days I still kept getting blisters. So I kept doing some research and refining my setup and now I’m happy to say that for the past 3 years I haven’t gotten a single Blister. I’ll explain how I managed to do that and how you can replicate it for yourself.

    1. Socks That Help Prevent Blisters

    ‘In my opinion the most important thing for avoiding blisters is getting Marino wool socks Marino wool specifically because it has some of the best moisture wicking properties of any material used in hiking socks which means that they’ll keep your feet dry even if you’re being active while hiking. But not just any Marino wool socks because from my own experience the cheaper Marino wool socks are usually made from worse quality Marino wool that doesn’t have as good moisture waking properties and will cause more blister.
    Socks That Help Prevent Blisters
    They’re also usually made from a fabric that’s too stretchy so they move around your feet more than they’re supposed to and they also aren’t as durable so they’ll get holes pretty easily ideally your Marino wool hiking socks should have a fabric composition. When you put on good quality Marino wool socks they’ll usually feel a bit stiffer and tighter and they won’t move around your feet as much. So they won’t cause any rubbing they also usually have more padding around the toes and the heel where blisters are most likely to form.

    2. Finding the Right Hiking Shoes

    I would advise against buying hiking shoes online unless you’ve already tried them on before in a physical shoe store. That’s because your hiking shoes should feel perfect on your feet the first time you try them on there should be plenty of room in the toe box nothing should feel tight and overall they should feel very comfortable without you needing to break them in if you feel like you need to break them in they’re probably not the right shoe for your individual feet.

    3. Handling Wet Conditions

    In the past 3 years the only time when I’ve gotten close to getting a blister is when I was hiking full day in rain. As I remember a bit over 30 km in completely drenched shoes so even if you have the most dialed in setup you’ll still probably get blisters when you’re hiking in rain for extended periods of time. That’s because when your skin and the fabric of the sock gets wet they cause much more friction one thing that. I haven’t tried personally myself is waterproof hiking socks because I live in a somewhat dry climate I’ll probably test them someday myself but right now I cannot tell you whether they’re good or not but from what I’ve been reading most people tend to say that waterproof hiking socks cause fewer blisters when you’re hiking in very wet conditions.

    4. Managing Moisture and Ventilation

    Regardless of this another thing to consider is the ventilation within the shoe because if there’s more humidity inside of the shoe you’re more likely to get blisters to combat this. Whenever I take a break I usually take off my shoes and my socks and let them air out a bit. And I also prefer to choose breathable hiking shoes instead of water resistant ones and the last thing regarding humidity is that you should always carry at least two pair of hiking socks and switch to new ones every night or when your first pair of hiking socks becomes too wet. This will allow your feet to recover a bit and reduce the chances of blister formation.

    5. The Importance of Clean Socks

    One thing that a lot of people overlook especially through hikers is the cleanliness of the sock that’s because when you’ve been hiking with the same pair of hiking socks for more than 2 days the fabric soaks up all of the sweat the fabric becomes more rigid and less flexible and it causes more abrasion against your skin. So make it Habit to always wash your spare pair of hiking socks whenever you pass a stream or somewhere else at least once every two days.

    6. Quick Action on Hot Spots

    You probably already know this but you should always tape your feet as soon as you develop any sour spots because the time that it takes from a sour poot to develop into a blister is very quick one thing that I like to do especially when hiking in wet conditions is first applying Luco tape as you would normally but over it I will apply another layer of duct tape which will keep everything in place.

    7. Experimenting with Double Layers

    And lastly I wanted to say that this setup works for me personally but it might not work perfectly for you because each of our feet is built differently one other thing that you could do if all of this doesn’t work for you and you’re still getting some blisters is wearing two pairs of hiking socks essentially the main idea with this is that you’re wearing another pair of liner socks underneath your regular socks that are more thin and tightly fitting around your feet this way most of the rubbing would happen between both layers of hiking socks instead of the fabric and your skin.

    Final Thoughts

    Blisters can be one of the most frustrating parts of hiking, but with the right preparation, they can be easily avoided. By choosing high-quality Merino wool socks, investing in well-fitted shoes, and managing moisture and cleanliness, you can significantly reduce the risk of blisters. Additionally, taking action when you notice hot spots and experimenting with double layers or tape can help prevent blisters before they become a bigger issue. Remember, what works for one person may not work for everyone, so it’s important to find what suits your feet best. With these tips and a little trial and error, you can enjoy blister-free hiking adventures.
    12 Best Hiking Habits
    Hiking

    12 Best Hiking Habits to Make Your Adventures Easier

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    12 Best Hiking Habits to Make Your Adventures Easier

    12 Best Hiking Habit
    I’m going over 12 of these smaller habits to make your next through hike or overnight hike just a tiny bit better in your kit of smaller but useful things. These are the little tweaks and tricks that might not seem groundbreaking but can make a big difference when you’re out there. From packing smarter to staying more comfortable, it’s all about those tiny improvements that add up. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned hiker, there’s always room to level up your experience. After all, the joy of hiking is in the details—and these habits might just become your new go-to moves. So, grab your gear, and let’s dive into the small stuff that makes a big impact!

    Gear Management

    1. Use Reusable Zip Ties

    Add a few of reusable zip ties because they allow you to attach stuff to your backpack very easily and very securely for example if your spare socks are dirty you can wash them in a nearby stream and then attach them to your backpack with reusable zip ties to dry them out while you’re hiking.

    2. Keep Your Backpack Off the Ground

    If you have a trekking pole tent you can use the same reusable zip ties or a small carabiner to hang your backpack by the trekking pole strap at the top this will make sure that your backpack is off from the ground which is very useful in areas with a lot of rodents snakes and other Creepy Crawlers that might want to get into your stuff.

    3. Pack for the Return Trip

    Gear Management
    Gear Management
    If you’re on an overnight hike or a really long day hike and you’re driving with your car to get there and it’s really helpful to already prepare some stuff for the way back most importantly you probably want to throw in some Crocs or sandals in the car along with a water bottle. This will allow you to wash off your feet and then air them out during the way back, which will feel very nice and refreshing. Some other things that I find really helpful are fresh and comfortable clothing along with some snacks for the long ride back home.

    4. Keep Electronics Dry with Silica Gel

    In your waterproof dry Sack or wherever you hold. All of your electronics throw in one or two of these silica gel packets that you get whenever you order something online and just keep them in there forever because it can avoid any shoes further down the line if you get a small hole in this bag and some moisture gets inside of it.

    Smart Setup Practices

    5. Keep Small Items Organized

    Whenever you’re setting up your tent, pick one empty Sack or bag. I usually use my empty tent pack and then put in there all of the smaller items that you don’t need to avoid losing them in the morning also whenever you take these shorter brakes make it a habit to visually inspect the area at least two times just before you’re leaving because trust me realizing that you’ve forgotten something and then hiking back to get it is not something that I would recommend for anyone.

    6. Hang Your Headlamp

    During the night I always like to hang my headlamp in one of the zippers at one of my tent entrances because that way I always know where it is and I can grab it quickly in case I need it. I know that a lot of people also like to hang it around their necks during the night but in my opinion my solution is a bit better because this can be a bit uncomfortable in certain positions and the headlamp can also accidentally turn on during the night.
    Smart Setup Practices

    7. Keep Fanny Pack or BumBag

    One more habit that in my opinion is really helpful is a fanny pack or a bumbag whatever you want to call it. Because you can store in all of the smaller items in there that you might need to access quickly without taking off the backpack. I usually store in there some hand sanitizer, my phone sunscreen, a wallet, lip balm, some spare batteries for the camera, and some headphones. I also usually carry a large folded up Ziploc bag in here in case it starts raining, so that I can isolate all of my items from becoming wet.

    Sleeping Better Outdoors

    8. Use Earplugs for Peaceful Sleep

    If you want to sleep better during the night do bring a pair of earplugs. Honestly I was a bit hesitant to use them at first because I felt like I needed to be in control and wake up instantly in case something happens but when I slept without them every smallest sound coming from outside of the tent. Even if was made by some small Critter sounded like it was coming from a wolf that’s trying to sneak up on me and trying to break inside of the tent which meant that I was waking up a lot during the night realistically.
    Use Earplugs for Peaceful Sleep
    If you do not have any food inside of your tent or other items with strong smell, then the chances of animals trying to break into your tent are close to zero. So just chill out bring a pair of earplugs and sleep well that said from my own experience when I was through hiking after about maybe 2 weeks. I stopped needing these because I became much more relaxed about sleeping in night tent and I stopped waking up from every smallest sound fun fact.

    9. Stay Cool with a Microfiber Towel

    One thing that you might want to bring, if you’ll be hiking in summer for better sleep is a small microfiber towel just before going to sleep you can dampen it with some water and wipe off all of the sweat and dirt from your body which will make you feel fresh and you will sleep better during the night. Plus if it’s extremely hot outside you can use the same microfiber cloth for another purpose simply dampen it make making sure that it’s really wet do not rinse it out and simply put it over your head and then put on your cap now of course this does look a bit weird but honestly who cares, this will allow you to stay very fresh and cool and hike and even temperatures above 30° C.

    Health and Hygiene

    10. Prevent Diarrhea with Clean Practices

    This is one of the more important hiking habits that I’m going to tell you about. The most important things is our health, and you may face diarrhea during the hiking. This is because diarrhea is the most common health problem for through hikers. I’m not a doctor but I would argue that’s probably because you’re eating with dirty hands or you’re eating contaminated food so before touching your food always use some hand sanitizer to clean off all the bacteria from your hands.
    Hand sanitizer
    Another helpful thing to do here is that whenever you’re boiling some water not every time but occasionally you can add in your knife in there as well as your Spork because boiling it will clean off all the bacteria from the leftover food. And lastly I would also recommend you to avoid using those short through hicker toothbrushes with the cut off end because if you want to get into the most heartreach places in your mouth most likely your fingertips will have to go into your mouth which is a Bad Thing.

    11. Prioritize Foot Hygiene

    Here is the forth and important hiking habit that you should follow, especially for longer hikes I find it really important to take good care off your feet to avoid getting blisters so whenever you stop and take a break first off take off your shoes then take off the socks and turn them inside out and lay them out somewhere in the Sun. So that you air out your feet as well as your socks and reduce the humidity inside of the shoe.
    It’s also really nice to plan your brakes right next to water sources because this means that you can wash off all the sweat and dirt from your feet which greatly reduces the chances of blister formation. Also ideally you always want to sleep with a fresh pair of socks and to do this you can wash your other pair of socks in the morning. Somewhere in a stream or wherever and then attach them to your backpack to dry them out as you’re hiking during the day.

    Morning Routine Hiking Habit

    12. Optimize Your Morning Coffee Ritual

    Personally I like to take down my tent as soon as I wake up and have my coffee and eat my breakfast only maybe 15 or 30 minutes after I’ve started hiking that’s because I found that if I drink my coffee. The first thing in the morning it usually takes about 1 hour for me to start moving which is quite a lot this way if I do it a bit later the coffee break is usually much quicker and also by that time the sun is already up which means that I can choose a better spot to drink my morning coffee with better views with more sunshine and so on.

    Final Thoughts

    These hiking habits are not just practical but can also make your hikes safer, more comfortable, and enjoyable. By implementing these tips and organizing your gear and routines smartly, you can focus more on the beauty of the trail and less on avoidable inconveniences. So, gear up, plan well, and take these habits along for your next adventure! If you have any other hiking habit like this, please share them down comments to help out other people thank you.
    backpacking hacks
    Hiking

    10 Genius Backpacking Hacks That Seem Odd but Work Wonders

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    Ever wondered how a few quirky tricks could completely transform your backpacking experience?” From a silicone-enhanced sleeping pad to a no-slip pillow trick, these clever tips might sound strange at first, but they solve common problems every backpacker faces. Say goodbye to sliding around in your tent or waking up to adjust your pillow—let’s dive into these practical hacks that make your outdoor adventures smoother and more enjoyable!

    Here are 10 backpacking hacks that might not make a lot of sense at first but actually are extremely useful.

    1. Silicone Dots on Sleeping Pads

    Silicone Dots , backpacking hacks
    You might be wondering why the bottom part of my sleeping pad is covered with small dots well I put them there myself using store bought silicone to keep the sleeping pad from sliding inside of the tent during the night otherwise I would always keep sliding over to one side. This trick will level up your backpacking game effortlessly.

    2. No-Slip Pillow Trick

    Another problem is your pillow, because it always wants to slide off from your sleeping pad and then you wake up to correct it but luckily you can
    fix this quite easily by putting your spare t-shirt over both of them or any other shirt or jacket that you aren’t wearing.

    3. Extra Water Bottle Cap

    During the night I always carry an extra water bottle cap in my kit which is meant for two things mainly I use it to put on top of my t Stakes so that they don’t dig into my hands or feet when I’m pushing them into the ground. And secondly itacts as an emergency backup in case I lose one of the caps for my water bottles.

    4. Pot Cleaning Trick

    A small hack that makes your backpacking adventure so much easier. To clean out my pot I use a small piece of netting that I cut out from the plastic net bag that a lot of vegetables usually come in it does a really good job of scraping everything off its smaller than a sponge and I prefer it over pine needles which I know that a lot of people use because I don’t want to look for Pines every time that I want to wash my pot having something small like this is ideal.

    5. Olive Oil

    You should carry olive oil when hiking you need to get a lot of calories because you burn a lot of them and the easiest way to do that is by adding fat to your meals because it contains more than two times the amount of calories per gram compared to carbs and protein olive oil. Specifically contains more than 100 calories per tablespoon which means that I need to add just a few tablespoons to each of my dinner to reach the desired calorie amount and keep on hiking the next day.

    6. Volume Measurements

    Hikes for pots that don’t have any volume measurements. You can scrape them yourself on your spork. If you won’t scrape off any Coatings from the pot, you could also Mark them on your water bottle but I personally prefer to do it on my Spork because I tend to change my water bottle every now and then and then I have to redo all the markings on my specific Spork I’ve made two markings one for one cup of coffee or 200 ml and one for two cups of coffee or 400 ml.

    7. Check Ground Level

    Before setting up my tent I always place a half full plastic bottle on the ground which allows me to quickly determine if the ground is level or not to do this first adjust the water bottle so that the water inside of it is sitting straight then simply go around the water bottle and check that it’s sitting at a 90° angle relative to the ground if it isn’t the ground isn’t straight this allows me to determine whether a specific campsite is good or not and compare it to other campsites in the area.

    8. Clean Before Setting up

    A lot of times selecting a good campsite especially here in the mountains is a bit tricky because from the distance the ground may seem level at first but it actually isn’t after cleaning up the ground. I always lay out my tent fabric on it first and then lay on it myself this way, I can easily find out in which direction my sleeping mat feels the most comfortable in and also find out if there aren’t any holes or rocks in the ground that I need to take care of first.
    Clean Before Setting up

    9. Hang Your Flashlight At Safe Place

    At night I always keep both zippers for the tent inner mesh on the upper side and hang my flashlight between the cords on both of these zipper pools that way if I need to find it quickly. I always know where it is, plus if I line it properly it also acts as a lantern giving up enough light for the whole tent and if you wear glasses you can also hang your glasses here for the same reasons.

    10. Keep Dry You Socks

    If I need to drive some socks from hiking in rain all day I always put them underneath my shirt because my torso is very warm and it ensures that they’ll be completely dry by the morning. But before you start typing that it doesn’t work please try yourself and compare it to other methods, because I’ve tried them all myself and I know that this is the best technique by far it’s pretty disgusting obviously but it works.
    You can make your backpacking journey hassle-free by using this simple yet effective trick. By the way if you want to know which hiking socks are best for me, you can read me blog Best Hiking Socks. if you know of any other weird or uncommon backpacking hacks please write them down in the comments to help out other people.
    20 Solo Hiking Safety Tips for Beginners
    Hiking

    20 Solo Hiking Safety Tips for Beginners (No BS or Fluff)

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    Solo hiking can be one of the most rewarding experiences, but it’s important to stay safe along the way. As a beginner, it’s essential to prepare well, trust your instincts, and be aware of your surroundings. Always check weather forecasts, carry extra food, and have a backup navigation system. Pay attention to trail conditions and stay cautious near cliffs or wild animals. By following these simple yet effective safety tips, you can enjoy your solo hikes with peace of mind.
    Here are 20 solo hiking safety tips without any BS or fluff:

    1. Guard Dog Safety Tips for Solo Hiking

    You shouldn’t be Wary of just wild animals whenever you see horses, cows, goat or sheep alone in the mountains you should always pay a bit more attention because there might be a guard dog somewhere nearby in more popular hiking areas like the Alps or the Pyrenees. Usually they’re very well trained and they’re friendly to hikers but in more remote areas like for example, here in central Italy sometimes they’re very aggressive towards humans.
    Guard Dog Safety Tips for Solo Hiking
    if you see one, always stop and judge the situation first before approaching and determine whether the shepherd dog is aggressive towards you or not if he is slowly back away no sudden movement and go around the herd from a distance that way he probably won’t be aggressive towards you.

    2. Trekking Poles: A Must-Have for Solo Hiking

    When a lot of people start solo hiking they usually want to have something to protect their themselves with and in that case I usually recommend bringing trekking poles in my opinion they’re one of the best tools to protect yourself of course tricking poles are also a multi-use item which is really good for hiking,
    because you can set up some tents with them and they also greatly reduce the chances of you getting ankle or leg injuries.

    3. Ankle Exercises to Prevent Injuries

    To avoid ankle injuries, which could develop a potentially dangerous situation if you’re hiking solo, you need to increase the mobility range of your ankles, and you can do that by doing these four exercises: do 20 of these smaller bounces to improve your dorsiflexion, 10 of these stretches to improve your plantar flexion, 10 outward stretches to improve your supination, and another 10 inward stretches to improve your pronation.

    4. Safety Check-Ins for Solo Hikers

    If you’ll be hiking solo, you should definitely find someone who can alert the authorities in case you go missing. The main idea here is that you’d update them every day, and if they don’t receive any messages from you for a day or two, they would get in touch with a rescue team and let them know that you’re probably lost, or that your phone is dead, and that you just aren’t answering.

    5. Food Storage Tips

    Even if you don’t live in bear country, you should never leave your food, empty food packaging, your deodorant, and other things that have a strong smell inside of your tent. Here in Europe, you’d mostly do it to avoid wild boar encounters during the night, but depending on where you live, it could be other animals as well. I usually put everything that has smell in a dry sack and hang it up pretty high in a tree, at least 50 m away from my tent.
    Food Storage Tips
    That said, you could probably skip this step if you’re camping very high up in altitude, way above the tree line, because there you’ll usually only encounter mountain goats, foxes, and they’re usually pretty shy and they won’t try to get inside of your tent.

    6. Stay Safe on Public Wi-Fi

    Stay Safe on Public Wi-Fi
    A lot of long-distance trails that you can hike solo are located at the other end of the world, which means that you’ll need to travel to get there.
    When traveling, you should always protect yourself when connected to a public Wi-Fi. Always use a VPN to protect your data; the Wi-Fi network won’t be able to steal your passwords and other sensitive information.

    7. Why It’s Safer Than You Think

    Although definitely tempting, do not watch videos on YouTube because you’ll go down a rabbit hole and end up thinking that hiking is more dangerous than it actually is.
    To prove my point, here are some hard facts: in 2019, from 327 million visitors to all US National Parks, only 56 people died from hiking-related deaths.
    That amounts to 0.017 fatalities out of every 100,000 people. Now, let’s compare that to driving, where the fatality rate is 11 per 100,000 people. In simple words, hiking is 647 times safer than driving a car. So do yourself a favor and do not watch videos like that because, in reality, hiking solo is pretty safe.

    8. Avoiding Cliffside Risks

    If you’re a daring person and you’re not afraid of heights, then I would advise you to kind of limit yourself and not go too close to the edges of cliffs. In reality, I’m pretty much talking about me because I used to like to go near the edges and look down. But while I was hiking in Norway,
    Cliffside Risks
    I approached a cliff that was maybe 50 m high, and then I suddenly lost balance. I don’t know, maybe I stepped on a rock or something, but the point is that I lost my balance right next to the cliff. After that, I started thinking it really takes so little to have an accident like that. So while the experience is still fresh in my mind, now I try not to approach cliffs like that, or at least I try to take off my backpack and then do it much more carefully.

    9. Avoiding Unmarked Shortcuts

    If you see on your phone that you could take a shortcut, but the map shows that there isn’t a trail there, it probably isn’t there for a reason. Especially here in the mountains, eight times out of 10, whenever I take a shortcut in the mountains,
    I end up regretting it because it’s either too overgrown, it’s too steep, or it’s not usable in some other way. Only take it if you can clearly see the whole path and it’s easily doable.

    10. Choosing a Secluded Campsite

    Most people that do hiking are actually good people, so you don’t realistically need to worry about them. But when you’re camping on public campgrounds, you’re sharing it with other people, which sometimes can be a bit weird or make you feel uncomfortable, or even have some bad intentions. If you’re concerned about that and you’re hiking solo, especially if you’re a girl, it might be a better idea to set up your camp outside of camps, out of sight, not near roads, not near houses, and so on, because nobody will see you there and it will be safer.

    11. Stay Safe on Overgrown Trails

    If you’re hiking on overgrown trails and you can’t really see what’s hiding behind the next Bush 10 to 20 M away, make sure to every once in a while clap your hands and do other loud noises to scare off any wild animals and potentially startling them not only bears. But wild bores deer and other large animals because they might act aggressively when you startle them especially if they’re with their babies.

    12. Avoiding Animal Encounters and Hazards

    To avoid animal encounters do not set up your tent near water sources or on animal tracks which essentially look like a regular Trail but less maintained and in the middle of nowhere. Also don’t set it up underneath trees with a lot of dead branches that could fall on the tent or with some dead standing trees nearby and lastly avoid setting up your tent in areas that look like they might flood if a heavy rainstorm kicks in which could be a wash or near a stream or something similar.

    13. Don't Hike If You Are Tired

    Make it a habit to always stop hiking when you start feeling too tired because other than getting a heat stroke or something similar that. When you start to have poor judgment so even if you haven’t reached your desired campsite it’s always a better idea to have a small pause think about where you can set up your tent and possibly even hiking a bit back to set up the tent.

    14. Don't Use Phone While Hiking

    If you’re navigating on your phone, make it a habit to stop and only then look at your phone that’s because you could accidentally step on a rock and sprain your ankle maybe poke your eye with a tree branch step on a snake or something similar.

    15. Start Solo Hiking by Joining Groups or Volunteering

    If you haven’t hiked solo before something that really helps in the beginning is to start hiking in a group first. But the problem that a lot of people have is that their friends usually don’t want to go hiking with them, so what you can do instead is to go on Facebook Groups and look for any hiking groups in your area or you can apply for trail maintenance volunteer jobs in your area because you can find a lot of like-minded people there.
    Start Solo Hiking by Joining Groups or Volunteering

    16. Check Weather and Trail Condition

    When hiking solo you need to pay much more attention to the weather forecast and the upcoming trail conditions, because if something happens you’re out on your own avoid hiking in high altitudes late in Spring and even sometimes early in the summer if there’s still a lot of snow left stay below the tree line in thunderstorms and remember that after heavy rains a lot of rivers streams might not be crossable due to a higher water level in the dry season watch out for any Wildfire notices and remember that some water sources might be dried up.

    17. Carry Extra Food

    In case something happens, I usually carry at least one extra day of food with me at all times but if you’re a beginner or if you’re hiking in a very remote area then you should probably carry at least two extra days also do not rely only on food that needs to be cooked on camping stove because you can run out of gas the camping stove might become damaged or if the temperature drops below freezing regular gas powered camping stoves usually stop working then.

    18. Use GPS, Power Bank and Offline Map

    Nowadays, most people navigate using GPS apps on their phone. So here’s what you need to do if you want to do it safely you should always carry a power bank in case your phone runs out
    of charge and you should also make sure that your preferred navigation app also works offline.

    19. Backup Navigation for Solo Hiking

    In areas that aren’t that remote that have well-marked Trails or that you know of personally navigating with just your phone usually is safe enough. That’s like how I navigate 99% of the times but ideally you should also carry a backup as well.
    In case something happens to your phone and the best one definitely is a dedicated GPS device from Garmin Zio spot or something similar that’s because they’re more robust they have a longer battery life, all of them come with an SOS emergency function and a lot of them also come with satellite messaging, which means that you can communicate with other people even if there’s no reception of course another alternative is to carry paper maps and a compass.
    Backup Navigation for Solo Hiking
    As your backup however you have to learn how to use them you have to print a new map before each hike and sometimes they’re also hard to navigate by precisely, especially if you’re hiking in a forest or if there aren’t any key landmarks to navigate by.

    20. Trust Your Instincts: A Key to Safe Solo Hiking

    And the last tip which might actually seem like fluff or BS to some people but in my opinion is quite important is to trust your instincts. We’re all animals and if dogs can sense that something dangerous is about to happen and they become nervous. I think that you subconsciously can do that as well.
    So if your gut is telling you to not Camp here to not hike on that specific Trail or to turn back. I would advise you to follow it of course I don’t have any actual proof to back this up but there are a lot of stories from other people who have trusted their gut while hiking and avoided a potentially dangerous situation.
    9 Best Hikes in Switzerland
    Hiking

    Top 9 Hikes in Switzerland: A Trekker’s Paradise

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    Switzerland is a hiker’s paradise, offering everything from towering glaciers to lush meadows, turquoise lakes, and jaw-dropping mountain ridgelines. After spending a considerable amount of time hiking in this beautiful country, it’s safe to say that it might be our favorite hiking destination ever. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or someone who enjoys a leisurely stroll with incredible views, Switzerland has something for everyone. With options ranging from mountain huts to convenient gondolas and trains that take you straight to the peaks, the hiking experience here is accessible and unforgettable.
    Hikes in Switzerland
    If you’re planning a trip to Switzerland, be sure to check out our comprehensive travel guide. It’s packed with accommodation options, budget tips, transportation advice, camping info, and a ton of activities. It’s an instant download, so you can start planning right away!
    We’ve compiled this list of top hikes in Switzerland, although we must admit—it was impossible to rank them. Every hike is unique, stunning, and hard to compare. We encourage you to pick the hikes that suit your style and fitness level.

    1. Stoos Ridge

    The Stoos Ridge hike offers breathtaking views over Lake Lucerne and is an adventure for the entire family. To reach the top of this ridge, you’ll take the steepest funicular in the world—an experience in itself! Once you’re up, you can choose from a variety of hiking options, including taking a gondola or chairlift to get from point A to point B. The views from the ridge are incredible, especially when the clouds part, giving you a panoramic view of the lake below.
    For those interested in a unique experience, there’s a small goat petting zoo on the way, which will definitely add to the fun. If you’d like, you can even stay overnight at the mountain restaurant, where the views over the lake are second to none.

    2. Via Ferrata from Murren to Gimmelwald

    For those who enjoy a challenge and a bit of adrenaline, the Via Ferrata from Murren to Gimmelwald is a must-do. This route is not for the faint of heart as it involves traversing narrow ridgelines and steep cliffs. You’re secured to the mountain with a harness and clips attached to cables anchored into the rock, which provides a sense of security despite the scary heights. The adrenaline rush is worth it, though.
    This hike doesn’t require a tour guide, but it’s a good idea to have prior Via Ferrata experience. Gear can be rented in Murren for a reasonable price, and you’ll be well-prepared for the thrilling journey ahead. If you’re up for the challenge, this hike will provide you with one of the most exciting experiences Switzerland has to offer.

    3. Gorner Glacier

    The Gorner Glacier in Zermatt is a popular spot for hiking and offers one of the most dramatic glacier views in Switzerland. For those up for a 20-kilometer hike with a 1500-meter elevation gain, this is a great option. If you prefer something a bit easier, you can opt for the Gornergrat Bahn, a scenic train ride that takes you directly to a viewpoint overlooking the glacier. The train ride costs about 110 Swiss Francs, which might not be the most budget-friendly option, but it’s worth it for the stunning views.
    Once you reach the top, a series of switchbacks lead you closer to the glacier. There’s also an option to loop around and explore other parts of the glacier, making for a well-rounded and unforgettable experience. This hike can be combined with other routes to customize the level of difficulty.

    4. Muttseehutte

    Muttseehutte offers one of the most unique hiking experiences in Switzerland. It’s a longer hike, around 11.4 kilometers, with 600 meters of elevation gain. The hike starts with a gondola ride, which takes you up to a tunnel that you’ll walk through for the first part of the hike. This offers some shelter if you’re hiking in chilly weather.
    Muttseehutte
    After exiting the tunnel, the hike steepens as you climb toward the Muttseehutte. The view is absolutely worth the effort, especially when you get to the top and can take in the majestic surroundings. For those interested in spending the night, the mountain hut offers private rooms with a cozy atmosphere. The price for staying is very reasonable, considering the incredible experience and the delicious meals served.

    5. Schafler Ridge and Seealpsee

    Schafler Ridge and Seealpsee are two separate hikes that are best combined to get the most out of the experience. There are plenty of gondola rides in Switzerland to help you gain elevation quickly, and this hike starts with a thrilling seven-minute gondola ride that takes you up over 1,000 meters. From there, you can enjoy a scenic hike along the ridge, staying overnight at the Schafler Hut.
    Schafler Ridge and Seealpsee
    The views from the hut are magnificent, especially during sunrise and sunset when the light casts beautiful colors on the peaks. After your stay, you can complete the loop down to Seealpsee, a stunning emerald-green lake nestled in a Swiss meadow. This hike covers 13.6 kilometers and offers about 585 meters of elevation gain, making it a moderately challenging but rewarding adventure.

    6. Augstmatthorn

    Augstmatthorn is one of the most well-known hikes in the Interlaken region, offering panoramic views of both lakes and the town of Interlaken. You can take a gondola up to the starting point, which helps save energy for the actual hike. The route is relatively short—about 5 kilometers—but it’s well worth the effort for the spectacular views at the top. Here is te full video you can watch all 9 hikes in Switzerland.
    If you’re lucky, you might also spot some local wildlife, such as marmots or ibex, which are common in the area. The hike is ideal for those who want to experience Switzerland’s beauty without committing to a long or strenuous trek.

    7. Aletsch Glacier

    The Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps, is a must-see for anyone visiting Switzerland. At 23 kilometers long, it’s a truly breathtaking sight. The hike along the side of the glacier offers stunning views, and you can opt to take a gondola to gain some elevation before heading out on your hike.
    The hike itself is about 8 kilometers long, and the views along the way are nothing short of incredible. You can loop the hike for a complete experience or mix it up with other trails in the area. If you’re into glaciers, this one should be on your list of must-see destinations.

    8. Oeschinensee Lake

    Oeschinensee Lake is one of Switzerland’s most photographed and most visited destinations—and for good reason. The hike to the lake is absolutely gorgeous, with lush meadows, alpine forests, and majestic mountain views. The gondola ride up to the lake is well worth the investment, as it saves you the steep climb.
    Oeschinensee Lake
    Once you reach the lake, you can enjoy activities like boating or swimming. The water is incredibly clear, and the surrounding scenery is out of this world. You can also take a hike around the lake or up the ridges for panoramic views. This is one of those hikes that will leave you feeling awe-struck.

    9. Stellisee Lake

    Topping our list is the hike to Stellisee Lake, with its perfect views of the Matterhorn. This is arguably the most iconic photo spot in Switzerland, and for good reason—it’s absolutely breathtaking. The hike is relatively short, but the views are nothing short of spectacular, especially during sunrise when the light paints the mountains in golden hues.
    The best way to experience this hike is to stay overnight at the nearby hut. You’ll have prime access to Stellisee Lake at sunrise and sunset, and the photos you’ll take here will be memories you cherish forever. This hike, combined with a trip to the Gorner Glacier, offers the perfect way to experience the best of the Swiss Alps.

    Final Thoughts

    Switzerland is full of incredible hiking experiences, with breathtaking views, challenging hikes, and cozy mountain huts to make your trip even more memorable. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner, these top hikes offer something for everyone. Don’t forget to check out our Switzerland travel guide for all the information you need to plan the perfect hiking adventure in this stunning country!
    7 best hiking pants for women
    Hiking

    7 Best Hiking Pants for Women – My Personal Picks

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    As a girl who loves hiking and the wild whispers of the trails, I know firsthand that a good pair of hiking pants can make or break your adventure. When you’re out there, with miles of untouched paths ahead and nature’s beauty wrapping around you, comfort and functionality are non-negotiable. Here, I’m sharing my top picks for the best hiking pants for women, making your journey smooth, stylish, and full of boundless joy.

    1. Women's Quick-Dry Hiking Pants with UPF 50 Protection

    These lightweight beauties are my go-to for sunny treks and mountain escapades. Made from 90% Nylon and 10% Spandex, they’re breathable, quick-drying, and offer UPF 50 protection. The 4-way stretch material hugs your body, giving you the freedom to leap over streams or stretch on rocks without a second thought. Plus, those six deep pockets, Perfect for storing a compass, some trail snacks, or even a wildflower or two.

    Why I Love Them:

  • Customizable fit with an adjustable drawstring waistband.
  • Moisture-wicking fabric that keeps you feeling fresh even under the hot sun.
  • Adjustable cord locks at the cuffs, which I found useful to keep pesky bugs at bay.
    • Whether it’s a breezy spring morning or an autumn afternoon, these pants are versatile and ready for all my hiking adventures. Check them out on Amazon!
    Women's Quick-Dry Hiking Pants with UPF 50 Protection

    2. Hiking Pants for Women – Lightweight Cargo Pants

    These pants are like having a trusted hiking buddy. With the same fabric blend as the quick-dry pair, they bring the added perk of adjustable cuffs and a drawstring waistband that fits like a dream. What really steals the show, though, are the six pockets, designed for keeping all your little must-haves secure. I stash my phone, some first-aid essentials, and even a small notepad for when inspiration strikes mid-hike.  

    Highlights:

  • Effortless comfort with breathable, quick-drying fabric.
  • A flattering slim fit that doesn’t compromise on mobility.
  • Perfect for a range of activities: hiking, camping, or even fishing with friends.
    • Check them out on Amazon!
    Hiking Pants for Women – Lightweight Cargo Pants

    3. Hiking Pants for Women – Waterproof Wonders

    Nothing dampens a hiking day like unexpected rain, and these waterproof pants have been my saviors more than once. Made of 90% Polyester and 10% Spandex, these pants are lightweight but feature a water-repellent coating that keeps you dry. The quick-drying fabric lets you continue your adventure without that dreaded soggy-pants feeling.

    What Makes Them Stand Out:

  • Six secure pockets, ensuring your valuables stay safe and sound.
  • An elastic waistband that molds comfortably around your waist.
  • The perfect mix of style and utility, keeping you looking great while braving unexpected weather.
    • Check them out on Amazon!

    4. Fleece-Lined Hiking Pants for Women Cold Adventures

    For those crisp, chilly hikes, these fleece-lined pants are like a warm hug. I remember wearing them on a dawn trek, the kind where the air bites but the scenery makes it worth it. The water-resistant outer layer kept me dry when the dew settled, while the cozy fleece lining locked in warmth. They’re also windproof, which is a blessing when the weather takes an icy turn.

    Best Features:

  • Four zippered pockets for secure storage.
  • Adjustable waist and cord locks at the ankles for added protection against the cold.
  • Ideal for winter treks, snowboarding, or any cold-weather adventure.
    • Check them out on Amazon!

    5. Hiking Pants for Women – Tailored for Tall Hikers

    I’ve always believed that every hiker, no matter their height, deserves pants that fit just right. These tall inseam hiking pants offer lengths from 30″ to 36″, making them a rare find for those of us with longer legs. They’re made from a blend of Nylon and Elastane, providing both flexibility and durability for long, strenuous hikes.

    Why You’ll Love Them:

  • Adjustable ankle cuffs to keep insects and debris out.
  • A supportive fit that doesn’t sacrifice breathability or comfort.
  • Multiple pockets that don’t just add function but blend seamlessly into the design.
    • Check them out on Amazon!

    6. Hiking Pants for Women – Waterproof & Windproof for Snowy Trails

    When it comes to winter hiking, these waterproof, windproof pants are top-tier. The spandex-infused shell keeps moisture out while allowing for easy movement. The fleece lining keeps your legs warm, even in a flurry of snow. I remember a hike last winter where the wind howled around us, and these pants kept me snug as I trekked through the frosted landscape.

    Details I Appreciate:

  • Ankle zippers that make it easy to wear with snow boots.
  • Reinforced, scratch-resistant fabric that protects against the rough terrain.
  • Large pockets to keep my essentials handy while keeping my hands free.
    • Check them out on Amazon!

    7. Hiking Pants for Women – Snow-Ready Ski Pants

    These insulated pants are built for the most extreme winter hikes and skiing adventures. I first wore them during a snowshoeing trip, where they kept me warm and dry while offering great flexibility. With a mid-rise cut and elastic waistband, these pants sit comfortably without pinching or slipping.

    Top Reasons to Choose These:

  • The ripstop fabric prevents wear and tear during rugged outdoor activities.
  • Articulated knees for easy movement, even when climbing uphill.
  • Zippered ankle openings for seamless boot fitting.
    • Check them out on Amazon!
    Whether you’re tackling misty trails or wandering under a sky filled with flurries, having the right hiking pants for women makes each step more confident. These pants have been by my side, turning every hike into an adventure I cherish. So, pick your pair, lace up your boots, and let the trails call you. Happy hiking, ladies!
    How to Train for Hiking
    Hiking

    7 Tips How to Train for Hiking: Preparing for Every Trail

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    How to Train for Hiking Preparing for Every Trail
    Hiking is more than just a leisurely walk through nature—it’s a thrilling adventure that tests your endurance, strength, and mental grit. Whether you’re dreaming of scaling towering mountains, tackling the iconic Grand Canyon, or preparing for a high-altitude journey, the right training can transform a daunting task into an exhilarating experience. This guide will help you learn how to train for hiking, step by step.

    1. Building Endurance: The Foundation of Hiking

    Endurance is at the heart of any hiking journey, especially for long or high-altitude treks. Training for endurance doesn’t just mean being able to walk for long periods; it involves preparing your entire body for sustained physical activity.

    • Start with Regular Walks

    Begin by adding daily walks to your routine, gradually increasing the distance and duration. Aim for 30-60 minutes of brisk walking to build a base level of cardiovascular fitness.

    • Increase Incline

    To mimic the conditions of mountain hiking, incorporate hills or stair climbing into your walks. This helps your muscles adapt to the kind of strain they’ll face on the trail.

    • Weekend Hikes

    Plan short hikes on weekends to get used to varied terrains. These will simulate the conditions you’ll face and help you gauge your progress.

    2. Strength Training for Hiking

    When learning how to train for mountain hiking or any rigorous trail, strength is essential. Hiking involves more than just your legs—it requires a strong core, back, and shoulders, especially if you’re carrying a backpack.

    • Leg Workouts

    Squats, lunges, and step-ups are fantastic for building the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes, which are crucial for uphill climbs.

    • Core Strength

    Planks and leg raises strengthen your core, ensuring better balance and reducing the risk of injury.

    • Upper Body

    If your hike involves carrying a pack, don’t forget about your upper body. Push-ups, rows, and shoulder presses will strengthen the muscles needed to support the extra load.

    3. How to Train for High Altitude Hiking

    High-altitude hiking comes with its unique challenges, including thinner air and reduced oxygen. To prepare, focus on these training steps:

    • Cardiovascular Conditioning

    Engage in high-intensity interval training (HIIT) sessions that push your cardiovascular limits. Short bursts of intense activity followed by brief recovery periods simulate the effort required for steep climbs at altitude.

    • Simulate High Altitude

    If you don’t live in a high-altitude area, training on inclined treadmills or with a weighted backpack helps mimic similar conditions. Some athletes even use altitude masks, but these should be used with caution and ideally under professional guidance.

    • Practice High-Altitude Hikes

    When you can, train by hiking at higher elevations before your main adventure. This allows your body to adjust to the thinner air and helps you learn to control your breathing and pace.

    4. Mastering the Grand Canyon: A Unique Challenge

    Training for hiking the Grand Canyon requires preparation for the unique demands of the trail—descending steep switchbacks and then climbing back up, all while dealing with potential heat and exhaustion.

    • Downhill Training

    Going down can be more taxing on the legs than going up, especially on the knees. Incorporate exercises like downhill lunges and controlled descents on stairs to strengthen your leg muscles.

    • Heat Acclimatization

    Depending on when you plan to hike, the Grand Canyon can be sweltering. Train in warmer conditions to help your body get used to managing heat while staying hydrated.

    • Endurance Hikes

    Longer hikes with elevation changes will prepare you for the rigorous demands of descending and ascending the Canyon.
    Unique Challenge

    5. Preparing Mentally and Logistically

    A successful hike isn’t just about physical readiness. Mental preparation and logistical planning are just as crucial.

    • Mind Over Matter

    Hiking can push you to your mental limits. Train your mind by practicing mindfulness, setting small goals on your hikes, and celebrating those milestones. Visualize yourself completing the hike, focusing on positive outcomes.

    • Hydration and Nutrition

    Practice carrying enough water and snacks on your training hikes. Your body will need hydration and fuel to keep up its energy levels during longer hikes.

    • Gear Familiarity

    Train with the gear you’ll use, including your backpack, boots, and any trekking poles. This ensures you’re comfortable and minimizes surprises on the trail.

    6. Training Tips for Altitude Hiking

    Altitude hikes, especially those over 8,000 feet, come with the risk of altitude sickness. Here’s To get yourself prepared for altitude hiking, follow these steps:

    • Pace Yourself

    One of the biggest mistakes hikers make is going too fast too soon. Training to maintain a steady, moderate pace is essential for altitude hikes where energy conservation is key.

    • Breathing Techniques

    Practice deep breathing exercises. Learning how to take full, steady breaths can help maximize oxygen intake when it’s limited.

    • Strengthen Your Cardiovascular System

    Activities like cycling, swimming, and running are excellent for building lung capacity and improving oxygen efficiency.

    7. Tips for Training Success

    Consistency and gradual progress are your greatest allies when training for hiking. Here are a few final tips:

    • Create a Schedule

    Set a training schedule that allows you to gradually increase your activity level over weeks or months.

    • Pay Attention to Your Body

    Pushing too hard can result in injuries. If you feel pain that goes beyond typical muscle soreness, make sure to take a break and rest.

    • Join a Group

    Training with friends or joining a local hiking group can keep you motivated and accountable.

    • Celebrate Small Wins

    Each step in your training journey is an achievement. Whether it’s a longer weekend hike or climbing a steeper hill, these moments prepare you for the main event.

    Conclusion: Embrace the Journey

    Training for hiking, whether it’s for mountain trails, the Grand Canyon, or high-altitude peaks, is an enriching experience that enhances your fitness and builds resilience. By following these guidelines, focusing on both physical and mental preparation, and training consistently, you’ll be ready to conquer your chosen trail with confidence. So lace up those hiking boots, pack your gear, and get ready to transform each training session into a step toward your hiking dream. The mountains, trails, and panoramic views await!

    FAQs about Train for Hiking

    Start with cardio workouts and practice hiking at a higher elevation if possible. Deep breathing exercises and HIIT workouts also help prepare for the oxygen challenges of high-altitude trails.
    Aim to start training at least 8-12 weeks before your planned hike, especially if it involves steep inclines or high altitudes.
    Acclimate gradually by hiking at higher altitudes before your main hike. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol before your trip, and listen to your body for any warning signs of altitude sickness.
    Carry water, snacks, a first aid kit, and any equipment you plan to take on the actual hike to get used to the weight.
    Leg exercises like lunges and step-ups, core workouts like planks, and upper body training such as shoulder presses and rows are most effective.
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