17 Common Hiking Mistakes Even Experts Make – And What To Do Instead

Going hiking can be a fantastic experience, whether you’re just starting or have been hitting trails for years. But let’s face it – making mistakes is pretty common, and honestly, there’s no good reason to make them. This guide is about helping you, whether you’re new to hiking or pretty savvy with a backpack. We will talk about the usual slip-ups people make on the trails and how you can easily avoid them. You’ll get handy tips on everything from what to pack to how to stay safe while you’re out enjoying nature. So, get ready to learn some neat tricks that will make your hiking adventures better and safer. Let’s get started on making your next hike a fun and trouble-free outing.

Burying Your Reservoir

Mistake: Burying your water reservoir at the bottom of your pack is a common but avoidable error. Often, hikers pack their gear without considering the placement of their water bladder, leading to unfortunate leaks. This mishap occurs when the bite valve is unintentionally pressed open due to the pressure from other items in the backpack. Not only is this frustrating, but it can also result in a soggy journey and a lack of essential hydration. It’s crucial to be mindful of how and where you pack your reservoir, especially when it’s full.

What to do instead: To prevent such leaks, the best practice is to position your water reservoir at the top of your backpack. Due to this placement, the bite value will have no undue pressure applied to it. In case your bladder does have a small puncture or leaky seam, don’t fret. A quick fix is using a product like Seam Grip, a waterproof sealant commonly used for repairing tents. Before applying Seam Grip, empty the bladder and give it 24 hours to dry completely. This simple adjustment in packing can save you from the annoyance of a wet backpack and keep your water supply secure.

Not Properly Storing DEET-Based Bug Spray

Mistake: A common oversight among hikers is failing to store DEET-based bug sprays properly. DEET, a potent chemical in many repellents, can damage materials like nylon and polyester, commonly used in outdoor gear. It can even wreak havoc on tougher plastics such as buckles and water bladders. When DEET-based sprays are not stored correctly, they pose a risk of leaking and causing significant damage to essential hiking equipment.

What to do instead: To safeguard your gear from the harmful effects of DEET, always enclose your bug spray in a zip-top bag. This simple step can prevent the chemical from coming into contact with your gear, thereby avoiding potential damage. Remember, it’s not just about keeping bugs at bay but also about preserving the integrity of your hiking essentials.

Overconfidence

Mistake: Overestimating one’s abilities and underestimating the challenges of a hike can lead to dire consequences. A study on Search and Rescue missions highlighted that issues like fatigue, darkness, and insufficient equipment contribute significantly to hiking mishaps. Overconfidence often leads to unrealistic goals and poor planning, underestimating factors such as hiking speed and terrain difficulty.

What to do instead: Setting realistic goals and accurately assessing your hiking capabilities is crucial. Experts suggest assuming an average hiking speed of 1 to 2 mph, adding an extra 30 minutes for every 1,000 feet of elevation gain. Such methodical planning can significantly reduce the risk of getting caught unprepared and needing rescue.

Not Setting a Turnback Time

Mistake: Neglecting to establish a firm turnaround time is a recipe for trouble. Hikers may push beyond their limits without a predetermined turnback time or get caught in unfavorable conditions like darkness or bad weather. This oversight often leads to unplanned overnight stays in the wilderness, which can be dangerous.

What to do instead: Always set a strict turnaround time and adhere to it, regardless of your progress. Remember that the descent usually takes about half the time of the ascent, but this varies depending on the terrain. Sticking to your turnaround time is a crucial safety measure to ensure you return before conditions become too challenging.