Lately I have found a new hobby to indulge in- Hiking. Every Sunday I look for new routes and trails to try out and at the same time discover new stunning places around Malta. And as I skim through insta stories it seems that many people are enjoying this activity. We are lucky that the despite being in the winter season, the weather in Malta still provides us with the most wonderful sunny days. Hiking is the perfect outdoor activity during this time. Why ?
It is safe
Free of charge
A breath of fresh air (literally)
It is beneficial for our mental health as it serves as therapy to help clear and soothe the mind
Excellent to get your body moving and burn some calories
An opportunity to enjoy nature
An activity in which all the family can join in on
So here are 10 essential tips to keep in mind :
1. Choose the ideal hiking trail for you When selecting a hiking trail you need to consider the level of physical exertion and difficulty you are prepared to face. Choose a hiking distance comparable or a bit shorter to the distance you normally walk on a levelled surface. It is best to start slow. Estimate the time required to complete the trail, considering any elevations & difficulties one will encounter during the trail. In addition, you also need to take into consideration the people your are going hiking with whether any kids, animals will be joining you.
2. Plan your hike Familiarize yourself with the trail you choose. Obtain a map and do some research about the area such as f the trail is a loop, or if you will have to backtrack. Take note of any intersecting trails where you could potentially make a wrong turn or any hick ups which may interfere in your track. This is also essential to help you choose what to pack and obtain any equipment you will be needing. Have a back plan in case you are stuck or take a wrong turn. Pin point those highlights you need to be on the look out for.
3. Check the weather conditions Review the weather forecast before planning the hike and also the days leading up to the hike so you will be prepared on what to expect, have an idea on what to wear and what to pack (for example if you need rain gear, sun protection) and ultimately if you should keep to the original plan.
4. Wear the right shoes & the right socksThis is very critical as painful feet can ruin the whole adventure and make the trail look as never ending. The type of shoes to wear depends mostly on the type of terrain you will be walking, duration and activities you will be performing along the trail. With the perfect hiking shoes one must not forget good socks to go with it. Choose wool or synthetic socks instead of cotton. Talking about feet, another essential thing to pack is blister dressing. Trust me on this one.
5. What to pack 
Water
High energy foods such as cereal bars, nuts, fruit eg.banana
ORS tablets
First aid kit
Sun protection
A source of light such as torch
Extra clothing (socks, jacket, long sleeved top)
Power bank
Navigation
Fire sources
Whistle
Camera
Plastic bag
Obviously this list was minimized to essential items needed for almost all hikes. The list is expanded depending on the length, duration, time of day, weather conditions and type of terrain.
6. What to wear
Wear light and comfy clothes. Comfort is key to an enjoyable hike. Do not wear thick clothes. Layering is very important even if you are hiking in cold temperatures, as you can easily adjust to the weather conditions by either adding a layer or shedding. Opt for synthetics instead of cotton as the latter remains damp leaving you feeling sweaty which can then make you feel cold. Always pack an extra layer of clothing, beyond what you think you will need preferably something which will block wind aswell.
7. Pack lightly Although we previously mentioned a whole list of items to pack it is important not to over pack. Having a heavy back pack will make the trail harder, look longer and may also lead to back strain. Pack lightly meaning wherever you can pack the smallest and lightest of each item. For example instead of a large tube of sunblock, use travel size bottles, share the weight of the water being carried amongst everyone.
8. Tell someone where you will be. It is important that a person, not participating in the hike knows where you will be and the time you will be starting and finishing the hike in order to be able to make an assumption when to call or worry just in case something goes wrong.
9. keep track of time during the hikePace yourselves. Do not start fast as you will get tired by the end of the trail. Therefore choose an ideal pace that you are able to maintain throughout all the hike. Try to time yourselves, meaning set specific times in which you should reach certain points. Set a tentative ending time.
10. Embrace the experience and leave no remains behind 
Enjoy the fresh air, embrace the adrenaline rush of the adventure and take in the beautiful scenery you see. Capture the moments yet do not let it take over the whole experience. Most importantly leave the place as you found it, leaving no trace behind. It is up to every outdoor enthusiast to take care of our natural spaces.
That is all for today. I hope you liked our first article for 2021 and found these short tips useful. I encourage you to go and enjoy any type of outdoor activities with your friends and family, always keeping your distance and maintaining safety measures. It is so important for both our physical health but mostly our mental health which unfortunately many people are increasingly struggling with.
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