How to start trekking if you're a complete beginner and have never pursued this healthy passion for both body and soul?
As mentioned from the start, it's a passion, not a "duty," so let's begin by giving you a basic tip that truly applies to everyone: start gradually.
Only by tackling trails and challenges at your level will you be able to trek safely and enjoy the experience. Everything else comes later.
With that necessary introduction out of the way, below you'll find our trekking tips for those who want to start and need someone to show them the way (not in terms of the route… we'll dedicate other articles to that later on!).
Why start trekking?
Before talking about how to start trekking, it's worth spending a few quick words on why. Or rather, on the "whys," given that there's more than one good reason.
Benefits for physical health
Trekking is an excellent cardiovascular workout that improves endurance and muscle strength. You can see the first physical benefits of this activity in the short term, but the real benefit you'll get is in the long term, because sports activity not only improves your fitness, but also significantly reduces the chances of cardiovascular diseases and more.
Benefits for mental health
Spending time in nature can reduce stress and improve mental well-being, which will help improve not only your mood, but also your overall quality of life. Trekking can, in fact, represent an important outlet that will help you face daily problems with renewed vigor and from the right perspective.
Connection with Nature
Trekking allows you to explore untouched places and immerse yourself in "out-of-the-ordinary" landscapes, inaccessible to those who live in an urban context. In the woods, on hills and in the mountains you can have different experiences, which will help you rediscover contact with Nature.
How to prepare for your first trek
You never forget your first trek… especially if it's a perfect day. When it comes to hiking, however, it's important to start on the right foot (literally!). So, preparation first and foremost. Here are our tips to get started properly.
Choose the right equipment
One of the first things to do when starting trekking is to invest in quality equipment. Starting well-equipped will save you effort, allow you to truly immerse yourself in your experience, and also contribute to the safety of your journey.
In this, we are the most suitable to help you, because Pesci Camping Store boasts decades of experience in trekking and camping equipment: within our selection, you can find high-quality clothing, tools, and accessories at affordable prices.
Below are some basic tips for trekking and clothing:
Among the most popular models with our customers, the Loomer Gravity MTX ANTRA represent an excellent choice for those taking their first steps into the world of trekking. Thanks to the MTX Ultra membrane, they are waterproof and breathable, perfect for tackling varied trails and unpredictable weather conditions. The Vibram® Megagrip sole guarantees excellent grip on wet or slippery terrain, while the comfortable fit and ankle support ensure stability even on longer walks.
A combination of comfort, protection and performance, ideal for those who want to start on the right foot.
Discover the Loomer Gravity MTX ANTRA →
-
Backpack: A spacious backpack is essential for carrying water, food, and all the accessories you'll need on the journey. Pay attention to comfort and ergonomics too, because with the right backpack you'll save yourself a lot of back problems.
Trekking Backpacks
-
Clothing: Opt for layered, breathable, and waterproof clothing. "Multi-purpose" clothes are also very useful, such as zip-off trousers, as they allow you to adapt to the changeable climate of environments like the mountains.
Jackets and Softshells
-
Hat: It might seem like an "extra," but a hat during a hike can be really useful, especially if the route doesn't include shaded sections. Sunstroke is, in fact, one of the main risks when walking.
Carefully plan your route
Before you set off, it's important to plan your route, especially if you're just starting out. For beginners, it's advisable to start with easy and well-marked trails. Consult local guides or specialized websites to find the most suitable itineraries for you and you'll avoid getting into difficulties.
Trekking tips: the first time
How to start trekking, as we said: let's really start from the basics, if you're very new to it. Here's what to pay attention to.
Take care of hydration and nutrition
Bring enough water for the entire duration of the hike. It's important to stay hydrated, especially on hot days, to reduce the risk of illness and collapse. Also, bring energetic but light snacks, such as dried fruit, cereal bars, and fresh fruit (especially a banana, rich in potassium and nutrients, could be the right fruit for your walk).
Study the terrain
Before you start, find out about the terrain you'll be covering. Knowing whether you'll encounter steep climbs, rivers to cross, or uneven paths will help you prepare adequately. In particular, consider the terrain when choosing which shoes to wear.
Watch the forecast
Always check the weather forecast before you leave. Avoid trekking in adverse weather conditions and make sure you always have appropriate clothing with you for any climatic changes. Better to carry a little extra weight in your backpack than to suffer from wind or rain.
Trekking: advanced tips
If you already have a good number of kilometers of hiking under your belt, you might move on to slightly more advanced trekking tips. Here are some pointers that might come in handy.
Train
If you intend to undertake more challenging routes, it is useful to train in advance. Regular walks, resistance exercises and stretching can improve your physical fitness and prevent injuries along the way.
Develop your sense of direction
Learning to use a map and compass can be very useful, especially in less marked areas. Also consider taking an orienteering course to improve your skills: it could come in handy in case of difficulty.
Do it in a group!
Joining a trekking group can be a great opportunity to meet people with your same passion. Moreover, walking in a group is generally safer, not just for beginners.
Trekking safely
The topic of safety during trekking deserves a separate chapter, because while it's true that in most cases excursions don't present particular dangers, it's also true that many of them take place in particular and, above all, isolated contexts, where the arrival of any rescue might take a long time.
Communication first and foremost
Inform someone of your itinerary and estimated time of return. Carry a fully charged mobile phone, even if there might be no signal in some areas. For trekking in particularly challenging environments, consider equipping yourself with more sophisticated devices.
First aid kit
Carrying a lightweight but well-stocked first aid kit can make all the difference in case of accidents. Essentials include plasters, disinfectant, bandages, gauze, tweezers (very useful for tick bites too) and any personal medication you might need.
How to start trekking, in conclusion
So, how to start trekking safely? As we've seen, with a pinch of preparation, the right equipment, and a bit more caution. But the most important ingredient is undoubtedly enthusiasm, which will make your experience unique.
We wish you happy trekking and for any need, we refer you to our store!
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How to start trekking
How to start trekking if you're a complete beginner and have never pursued this healthy passion for both body and soul?
As mentioned from the start, it's a passion, not a "duty," so let's begin by giving you a basic tip that truly applies to everyone: start gradually.
Only by tackling trails and challenges at your level will you be able to trek safely and enjoy the experience. Everything else comes later.
With that necessary introduction out of the way, below you'll find our trekking tips for those who want to start and need someone to show them the way (not in terms of the route… we'll dedicate other articles to that later on!).
Why start trekking?
Before talking about how to start trekking, it's worth spending a few quick words on why. Or rather, on the "whys," given that there's more than one good reason.
Benefits for physical health
Trekking is an excellent cardiovascular workout that improves endurance and muscle strength. You can see the first physical benefits of this activity in the short term, but the real benefit you'll get is in the long term, because sports activity not only improves your fitness, but also significantly reduces the chances of cardiovascular diseases and more.
Benefits for mental health
Spending time in nature can reduce stress and improve mental well-being, which will help improve not only your mood, but also your overall quality of life. Trekking can, in fact, represent an important outlet that will help you face daily problems with renewed vigor and from the right perspective.
Connection with Nature
Trekking allows you to explore untouched places and immerse yourself in "out-of-the-ordinary" landscapes, inaccessible to those who live in an urban context. In the woods, on hills and in the mountains you can have different experiences, which will help you rediscover contact with Nature.
How to prepare for your first trek
You never forget your first trek… especially if it's a perfect day. When it comes to hiking, however, it's important to start on the right foot (literally!). So, preparation first and foremost. Here are our tips to get started properly.
Choose the right equipment
One of the first things to do when starting trekking is to invest in quality equipment. Starting well-equipped will save you effort, allow you to truly immerse yourself in your experience, and also contribute to the safety of your journey.
In this, we are the most suitable to help you, because Pesci Camping Store boasts decades of experience in trekking and camping equipment: within our selection, you can find high-quality clothing, tools, and accessories at affordable prices.
Below are some basic tips for trekking and clothing:
Trekking shoes: Choose comfortable shoes suitable for the terrain you will encounter. Tight shoes, with smooth soles or poor ankle support can turn your first trek into a nightmare.
Among the most popular models with our customers, the Loomer Gravity MTX ANTRA represent an excellent choice for those taking their first steps into the world of trekking. Thanks to the MTX Ultra membrane, they are waterproof and breathable, perfect for tackling varied trails and unpredictable weather conditions. The Vibram® Megagrip sole guarantees excellent grip on wet or slippery terrain, while the comfortable fit and ankle support ensure stability even on longer walks.
A combination of comfort, protection and performance, ideal for those who want to start on the right foot.
Discover the Loomer Gravity MTX ANTRA →
Backpack: A spacious backpack is essential for carrying water, food, and all the accessories you'll need on the journey. Pay attention to comfort and ergonomics too, because with the right backpack you'll save yourself a lot of back problems.
Trekking Backpacks
Clothing: Opt for layered, breathable, and waterproof clothing. "Multi-purpose" clothes are also very useful, such as zip-off trousers, as they allow you to adapt to the changeable climate of environments like the mountains.
Jackets and Softshells
Hat: It might seem like an "extra," but a hat during a hike can be really useful, especially if the route doesn't include shaded sections. Sunstroke is, in fact, one of the main risks when walking.
Carefully plan your route
Before you set off, it's important to plan your route, especially if you're just starting out. For beginners, it's advisable to start with easy and well-marked trails. Consult local guides or specialized websites to find the most suitable itineraries for you and you'll avoid getting into difficulties.
Trekking tips: the first time
How to start trekking, as we said: let's really start from the basics, if you're very new to it. Here's what to pay attention to.
Take care of hydration and nutrition
Bring enough water for the entire duration of the hike. It's important to stay hydrated, especially on hot days, to reduce the risk of illness and collapse. Also, bring energetic but light snacks, such as dried fruit, cereal bars, and fresh fruit (especially a banana, rich in potassium and nutrients, could be the right fruit for your walk).
Study the terrain
Before you start, find out about the terrain you'll be covering. Knowing whether you'll encounter steep climbs, rivers to cross, or uneven paths will help you prepare adequately. In particular, consider the terrain when choosing which shoes to wear.
Watch the forecast
Always check the weather forecast before you leave. Avoid trekking in adverse weather conditions and make sure you always have appropriate clothing with you for any climatic changes. Better to carry a little extra weight in your backpack than to suffer from wind or rain.
Trekking: advanced tips
If you already have a good number of kilometers of hiking under your belt, you might move on to slightly more advanced trekking tips. Here are some pointers that might come in handy.
Train
If you intend to undertake more challenging routes, it is useful to train in advance. Regular walks, resistance exercises and stretching can improve your physical fitness and prevent injuries along the way.
Develop your sense of direction
Learning to use a map and compass can be very useful, especially in less marked areas. Also consider taking an orienteering course to improve your skills: it could come in handy in case of difficulty.
Do it in a group!
Joining a trekking group can be a great opportunity to meet people with your same passion. Moreover, walking in a group is generally safer, not just for beginners.
Trekking safely
The topic of safety during trekking deserves a separate chapter, because while it's true that in most cases excursions don't present particular dangers, it's also true that many of them take place in particular and, above all, isolated contexts, where the arrival of any rescue might take a long time.
Communication first and foremost
Inform someone of your itinerary and estimated time of return. Carry a fully charged mobile phone, even if there might be no signal in some areas. For trekking in particularly challenging environments, consider equipping yourself with more sophisticated devices.
First aid kit
Carrying a lightweight but well-stocked first aid kit can make all the difference in case of accidents. Essentials include plasters, disinfectant, bandages, gauze, tweezers (very useful for tick bites too) and any personal medication you might need.
How to start trekking, in conclusion
So, how to start trekking safely? As we've seen, with a pinch of preparation, the right equipment, and a bit more caution. But the most important ingredient is undoubtedly enthusiasm, which will make your experience unique.
We wish you happy trekking and for any need, we refer you to our store!