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Walkabout Scotland

Tips On Staying Safe On Long Hikes

Before you can plan a big adventure scaling Scotland’s summits, it is essential you know how to stay as safe as possible.

Ramblers who have dreamt of enjoying a walking holiday over Ben Nevis or scrambling the peaks of the Shetland Islands will probably know a thing or two about hiking. However, before you can plan a big adventure scaling Scotland’s summits, it is essential you know how to stay as safe as possible.

  1. Learn your route

One of the biggest dangers when it comes to hiking is getting lost, so make sure you research your route properly and you have a map to hand at all times. Put it in a waterproof casing to prevent it getting soggy in rainy weather, and even get two copies just in case one gets blown away.

Another tip is to join a walking tour, as you will have a professional guide leading the way, giving you more time to enjoy the experience, instead of worrying about the direction.

  • Conserve energy

The excitement of embarking on a hike often results in people starting off at a pace that is too fast. However, Hiking Guy recommends conserving energy and going at a steady speed.

“You never know what situation you’ll have to use your energy on later. For example, if you get lost or take a long trail, you’ll need energy to correct it. It’s a matter of safety. Plan on finishing with some juice in your tank,” the website suggests.

  • Check weather

Weather in Scotland can be inclement and can change quickly, so make sure you check weather forecasts right up until you tie up your boots. If there is a chance of a storm or heavy snowfall later in the day, it is safer to postpone the trek until the weather calms down.

Should you face strong winds, rain or snow while you are on the trek, it is wise to turn around as soon as possible and get back to safety. Carrying on with the expedition could become very dangerous.

  • Always have a phone

While walking in the Scottish countryside is the ideal time to switch off from the world and immerse yourself in nature, it is wise not to disconnect completely. Remember to take your phone with you and make sure it has a full battery. This ensures that if something does go wrong, you are able to call emergency services for assistance. They might even be able to track you with GPS on your phone, so keep it turned on at all times.

  • Bring enough provisions

If you are doing a long hike, you do not want to carry too much in your backpack. However, something that is essential to bring is enough food and water to last several hours.

Be clever with what you take and pack lightweight options that are calorie dense and have a lot of carbohydrates to give you energy. Consider bringing dried dates with peanut butter in the middle, while Eat Right recommends flapjacks, energy balls, protein bars, banana bread, trail mix, nuts and seeds, fresh whole pieces of fruit, granola, tuna pouches, cereal, and fruit or vegetable puree in squeezable pouches.

When it comes to water, bring two cups for every hour you plan hiking, carry a re-usable bottle so you can fill up along the route if possible, and drink four cups before you set off, so you do not have as much to carry.