How to Stay Safe Hiking Anywhere in the World

In hiking news this week, all the missing hikers were in the US:

• A 60-year-old missing hiker in Colorado
• A 16-year-old missing hiker in California
• A 72-year-old missing hiker in Maine

Whether you’re dreaming of conquering the Inca Trail in Peru or wandering Europe’s ancient footpaths, hiking offers an incredible way to experience the world’s most beautiful landscapes, but as the news indicates, it’s important to balance preparation with the anticipation of an upcoming hiking trip.

Hiking challenges and risks vary from altitude sickness to wildlife encounters to weather dangers to accidents, like slip-and-falls. Yet the fundamental risks and principles of hiking safety remain surprisingly universal worldwide. 

Understanding essential safety principles can make the difference between a memorable journey and a dangerous situation. Let’s explore how to stay safe while hiking anywhere in the world, and ensure that your adventures remain thrilling for all the right reasons. And if you’ve never tried adding hiking to your vacation plans, now just might be a good time to consider it!

Pre-trip planning

When they say ‘research your destination’ what exactly does that mean? Specifically, what should a traveler look for when planning to hike on a trip?

1. Local weather patterns and typical weather conditions—Check the historical weather data for the location and time of year, and look for any reports of extreme weather. You can only review the past data, but it will give you a good idea of what to expect.
2. Geographic hazards—Get a good idea of what to expect from the geography through which you’ll be hiking even if you’re planning a day hike. Look up the altitude difference and gain and check the current trail conditions.
3. Local wildlife and health concerns—Your trail research will help you discover how to protect yourself from local animal encounters and reliable information sources will tell you what endemic diseases are present and whether vaccinations are necessary.
4. Local rules and regulations—You’ll want to learn about the local rules for hiking in the area. For example, are you allowed to walk across private land, take a dog, or required to hire a guide?  Every region of the world has different laws for hikers. Find out what to expect before you leave.

Be sure to use reliable information sources such as national park websites, government travel sites, and local hiking clubs or guide services. 

Pro tip: I’ve used the AllTrails app for years and have found it incredibly helpful even for every type of walk from discovering trails through city parks to scaling high peaks. You’ll get current trail conditions, weather information, trail reviews, downloadable maps, and even visual trail previews.

Hiking trip preparation

Now that you know what conditions you will be hiking in, you can start preparing. Here’s how to get ready for your hike.

1. Gather your equipment—Weather-appropriate clothing, sturdy (broken-in) hiking boots, a first aid kit, sun protection, water and food are the essentials along with a backpack to carry them. Depending on the length of your hike, you may also want a more roomy backpack with overnight shelter, fire-starting tools, and cooking materials. If you might be hiking in the dark, a headlamp is a good idea.
2. Gather required documents—Depending on where you’re hiking, you may need a permit and/or identification. It’s also good to have printed maps, local emergency contact information, and health insurance and/or travel health insurance documents. Put all of these in a zippered plastic bag to keep them dry.
3. Create a comms plan—Even if you’re hiking as a group, share the itinerary and list of hikers with someone who can confirm when you’ve returned. If you don’t report your arrival, they’ll know to contact local authorities and report you and your hiking companions missing.

Some preparation for emergencies is also important. Hikers routinely get off-trail or get lost and find themselves in the dark without the things they need to stay dry and warm.

No matter how far you’ll be hiking, these are the emergency items to have:

• A whistle to blow to help rescuers find you
• A heavy plastic bag to protect yourself from the cold
• Extra food and water and/or water purification system
• A headlamp and/or flashlight with spare batteries
• A first-aid kit (and know how to use it!)
• Clothing for staying warm: knit hat, gloves, warm jacket
• A well-charged cell phone and battery charger (although you may not have service in remote locations)

You may also find items like a compass handy, if you know how to use it! Otherwise, it’s wasted weight.

Stay safe on the trail

Once you’re on the trail, practice common hiking safety awareness, including:

• Staying on marked trails and don’t take shortcuts
• Pacing yourself so you can finish (use the rule of thirds: 1/3 of your energy for the way out, 1/3 for the return, and 1/3 in reserve for emergencies)
• Staying hydrated and nourished (rest and replenish for 5-10 minutes each hour)
• Remaining aware of your surroundings (watching for weather shifts and animals) and changing trail conditions
• Keep watch on your companions to be sure they’re resting, hydrating, and staying aware
• Keep an eye on the time, leaving enough daylight to return and/or set up camp

These rules aren’t just common guidelines, they are time-tested safety protocols that can prevent serious problems. The key is consistency in following them, regardless of how easy or difficult the trail is.

Remember! Hikers get sloppy when they get too tired, hungry or distracted and that’s when accidents happen most often.

Post-hike safety tips

When you’re back from a hike, take the time to check in with yourself and your companions. 

1. Check for scrapes, blisters, rashes, and ticks and treat them immediately.
2. Empty, clean and properly store your gear so it will dry completely for next time.
3. Drink plenty of clean water and eat a balanced recovery meal.

Pro tip: Helping other hikers is key to everyone’s safety so take the time to report trail damage, share wildlife sightings and update local hiking groups of any unusual conditions.

Over the days following a hike, watch for delayed symptoms like unusual soreness, skin reactions, and signs of water-borne illness. Seek immediate medical attention if you or someone else in your hiking group experiences:

• Persistent pain or unusual swelling
• Fever or chills
• Severe headaches
• Unusual skin or digestive reactions

Many hiking-related health issues don’t show up immediately but can become problems hours or days after the activity has ended.

And finally, be sure you understand what emergency evacuation coverage you might need on a hiking trip in case you need to be rescued after getting yourself trapped upside down between boulders after dropping your phone.

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