Trekking and/or hiking are very different when it comes to the kind of travels we usually embark upon. Each one of us is definitely accustomed to the planning and preparations when it comes to luxury travels. However, I wondered if we ever thought or rather really worked upon what kind of preparation might be required when one is about to take up travels that are more of trekking/hiking kind of. A frequent trekker must already have an idea but then for novices, it is worth pondering upon. 

Trekking to reach the Kalsubai Peak had been those one of the such first interesting experiences which made me ponder on how one should be prepared for such treks, especially for beginners. A preparation and planning in place would always add to the wholesomeness of the experiences. 

Physical Fitness 

Treks are probably one of those mediums which tell one a lot about their endurance levels. One might be fit but he/she might be low on endurance capacity. There are again several aspects to this. The overall idea is to be physically fit in such a way that one is able to embrace and overcome unforeseen and harsh/extreme climatic conditions. One needs to build his/her stamina in such a way that he/she is able to withstand cold/extreme climatic conditions while also enduring the difficulties the trail has to offer. Exercising in such a way so as to push one’s limits and jogging/running are really helpful towards this, while planning a balanced, adequate and adequate diet. 

Adequate Research 

The trekking places are often not-so-easy trails which is why it makes it even more important to learn about the place beforehand. I can think of the below; 

• Learning about what the place has to offer. 
• How the climatic conditions are going to be like and even in the worst case. 
• A check on the weather forecast. 
• A sneak peek into the trail via videos. YouTube is a great place to check out the videos of such trails beforehand. They will give you a glimpse of what one can expect out of the trekking. 
• Get in touch with people who have been trekking and/or who are professionals in these areas and discuss/clarify things with them. 
• Analyze how fit one is for the trek based on the above factors. 

Accoutrement(s) 

It is always advisable to carry minimalistic luggage for they are definitely some extra baggage one would need to carry. Based on the research done, have the necessary things ready beforehand. One can never know when they would be handy. Few items I can think of include; 

• A Rain Jacket – To protect from rain. I happened to grab upon Quechua’s Rain Jackets [at Decathlon] which is waterproof and fits perfectly in a small space. Something like https://www.decathlon.in/p/8356304_rain-cut-women-s-waterproof-walking-rain-jacket-blue.html#/3171-515-2xs_xs serves the purpose well. 
• A Sweater/sweatshirt to beat the cold weather, just in case. Also, there are jackets that are two in one and serve both as rain jackets while shielding from the weather. 
• Nylon or quick drying clothes are always recommended, for they occupy less space and dry up quickly. 
• Good quality trekking shoes – They are very important for they will help get good grip even in the slipperiest of places encountered during a trek. 
• A Hand / Head Torch to sail through dark places. 
• Energy bars such as different kinds of nuts, Snickers and the like to keep one energized during the trail. 
• Water – One the most important things to take care and be mindful of.   
• A Camera and adequate protectors from rain. 
• Slippers/floaters to be used when not actually trekking.

These are the pointers I happened to think of that might help be better prepared for the next trek in anticipation. 

Happy Trekking/Hiking! ❤