12 Mistakes I Made When I First Started Hiking—So You Don’t Have To Make Them

Hiking is a wonderful activity, or should I say a sport, and like any other sport, it comes with its challenges, but above all, it requires proper preparation.

So if you’re just getting started on your hiking adventure and wondering how to tackle it without breaking a bone, here are 12 mistakes to avoid!

Save it for later!

1. Not investing in good hiking shoes

You can hike in sandals, as long as they’re hiking sandals, otherwise it’s a big no-no for me, but please don’t skimp on a good pair of hiking shoes.

They’ll last you for years and help you avoid injuries such as sprained ankles, blisters…

Yes, it may be an investment, but one you’ll be happy you made in the long run!

2. Wearing the wrong clothes

I’m thinking specifically of cotton, which is pretty much the worst choice when you’re sweating and takes forever to dry.

So don’t make the same mistake I did on my first few hikes, and opt for breathable clothing made of polyester, nylon or even merino wool (after using it in -10°C weather, I can’t go back to other materials).

Choose something comfortable, durable, and quick-drying, and forget about trying to look cute. We all look a mess by the end of a hike anyway!

3. Underestimating the importance of waterproof shoes

First things first, I don’t really recommend waterproof hiking boots, except for one season in particular: winter!

Hiking in winter often means dealing with snow, rain, or mud, so having waterproof shoes makes sense, especially if you’re planning a multi-day hike.

They’ll keep your feet warm and dry, and provide good insulation, but they also take a long time to dry and are less breathable.

That’s why I think they’re ideal for winter, but I avoid them during other seasons!

4. Not being ready for unpredictable weather

It’s nothing new: weather can change very quickly in the mountains. So even if you checked the forecast the day before and it showed only sunny skies, you’re still not immune to sudden rain, or strong winds.

And that’s why it’s important to always be ready to face unpredictable weather! Do yourself a favor and bring an extra layer or a rain jacket, just in case the forecast takes a turn for the worse!

5. Forgetting your first-aid kit

You’ve gone on a hundred hikes and nothing has ever happened to you, until that one hike when you stumble, scrape your hand on a rock, sprain your ankle, or end up with a big blister on your heel.

That’s when you’ll be glad you brought your first-aid kit so you can treat it right away.

Of course, it won’t be much help if you break something (fingers crossed that doesn’t happen), but it’ll be very helpful for minor injuries.

⁎ Tip: I always add a satefy whistle to mine, for extra safety, in case I get lost or need to attract someone’s attention.

6. Hiking without snacks

One of the most common mistakes, but it could actually save your life: not bringing any snacks or not enough water!

As for water, it’s recommended to bring half a liter in moderate temperatures, and a liter if it’s hot. This already gives you a good idea of how much water you should take with you based on the length of your hike.

As for snacks, my favorites include a small bag of trail mix with nuts, dried fruits…, fresh fruits like an apple or a banana, granola bars or crackers.

This way, you can replenish your energy, recover faster, not to mention the mental boost it’ll give you.

⁎ Tip: you can also bring electrolytes, especially for longer and more strenuous hikes!

7. Minimizing the usefulness of a power bank

Because you probably underestimate yourself and just how much you’ll use your phone to check the trail map, or how many photos you’ll take of the view, flora and fauna, or even selfies, a power bank is an essential for any hiker.

It also gives you an extra peace of mind you didn’t even know you needed until you’re running out of battery in the middle of nowhere!

8. Going on a hike without downloading the trail map

I always try to at least check the trail information in advance if it’s a short hike, or download the trail map directly, unless it’s a hike I’ve done several times and know the way practically by heart.

The reason is simple: so I don’t get lost. Getting lost in the woods is pretty scary, especially when the trails aren’t well-marked or you can’t see all the different paths on your map. Having a map to rely on is very reassuring, and it also ensures you don’t miss any viewpoints or highlights.

AllTrails is my go-to application when hiking!

→ A word of advice: sometimes, trail maps show some pretty weird paths—always follow them, and don’t try to take an unknown shortcut!

9. Following trails that aren’t on the map

You know, sometimes when you’re hiking, you’ll come across a path that leads who knows where, and isn’t even marked on the map. Don’t follow it, no matter how tempting it may be, especially if you’ve no idea where it leads.

It might look like a trail (although they often look sketchy, with overgrown grass, or a pile of leaves that doesn’t even let you see the ground), but it could be an abandoned, dangerous, or simply unmaintained path.

Therefore, you should avoid them and not play Indiana Jones. Remember to prioritize safety over danger because you don’t mess with Mother Nature!

10. Hiking isn’t a race

Yes, hiking is a great way to challenge yourself while seeing amazing scenery, but it’s not a race!

Hiking will also teach you humility, because no matter how fit you are, you’ll probably end up out of breath at some point and need to take a break. And that’s perfectly normal!

Go at your own pace and don’t worry about other hikers passing you, even if they’re twice your age. What matters is that you enjoy the journey to the top!

11. Doing like everyone else does

Just because people like hiking poles and sing their praises doesn’t mean you absolutely have to use them.

Do what feels best for you: if that’s hiking with poles, be it; if not, don’t dwell on it!

12. Not giving up

I’ve heard so many people say: “Since I’m here and I’ve already come halfway, I’m going to push through and finish the hike”.

But I completely disagree: there’s no shame in giving up and turning back if you feel like the hike is too difficult for you and you’re at the end of your rope. It’s better to give up than to have to call for help because you can’t make it down on your own or because you’ve lost your focus and had an accident.

Listen to your body and your instincts, and if something doesn’t feel right, turn back! You can always try the hike again another time!

Have you made any other mistakes on your hikes, or are there things you wish you’d known before you started hiking? Let me know in the comments!

Want to know what hiking is like when you’re short? Check out my post The Challenges Of Hiking When You’re Small!