Clothes to pack for your first hiking weekend

If you are new to hiking this article is designed for you. We love walking and being outdoors. Naturally, we are passionate about helping more people to do the same. Today, we are going to help you to decide what type of clothes to pack for your first hiking holiday.

Buy clothes you like

Ideally, you want to be able to use what you buy for your trip in your day-to- day life, as well as for hiking. Fortunately, there is no need to shop in speciality stores to find what you need. You can buy great looking menswear online that is suitable for most types of walking holidays.

The right footwear

However, that said, the one thing you must do is to buy the right footwear. In theory, you can go walking in a good pair of trainers. But, in reality, this is
rarely a good idea. Usually, trainers do not offer an adequate level of support, which can leave you vulnerable to injuries. Wearing the right footwear greatly reduces the risk of your experiencing twisted ankles, corns and blisters. It really is worth buying a proper pair of walking boots. However, your first pair need not cost a fortune. Once you have tried hiking a few times, and are sure that you enjoy it, you can invest in a pair of specialist walking boots.

You don’t need to buy a lot of kit to start with, but if you decide to carry on hiking, it is worth investing in some key pieces

Comfortable trousers

Trousers are normally the best option for walking. If you are used to shorts you can potentially wear them instead, but should always have a way to cover up your legs and keep them warm in your pack. A pair of good-quality chinos is a good alternative to proper walking trousers. Just make sure that they are loose enough to allow you to move freely.

Tops you can layer

The key to staying comfortable when walking is dressing in layers. Regardless, of where you walk, the temperature is going to change throughout the day. One minute it could be sunny, the next pouring with rain. You never know, so you need to be ready for most weather conditions. A good combination for most walkers is a long-sleeved cotton top worn with a thin fleece, and a gilet.
Provided you take a good showerproof jacket, as well, you should stay warm, but not get too hot at any point of the day. You may also want to pack a short-sleeved t-shirt to don on a hot day. But, if you do that be sure to put enough sun cream on and reapply it regularly.

A good jacket

You need a jacket that is lightweight, but wind resistant and shower proof. If possible choose one that has a hood and plenty of pockets.

Thermals

It is also a good idea to take a set of thermals with you. Even on a sunny day, it can be surprisingly cold when the sun keeps going behind the clouds or you
have to walk in the shade.

A hat is so important for keeping you warm while out hiking

Waterproofs

Lightweight waterproofs are an essential. You need a way to keep yourself 100% dry. A set bought from the supermarket will normally provide adequate protection for the first-time, or occasional, walker. Later, when you are sure hiking really is right for you, it is worth investing in a more expensive and durable set of waterproofs.

A hat and gloves

It is also a good idea to pack a hat, gloves and a scarf. They need to be lightweight enough to stow in your jacket pockets, but thick enough to keep you warm.

An in-depth packing list for the serious hiker

If you are a more regular hiker, this downloadable packing list will prove useful. You will not always need everything on the list, but using it is a good way to get you thinking about your trip and make sure you do not forget anything vital.

This is a collaborative post.

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