There’s no time of year quite like the summer. (Hopefully) warmer temperatures, longer days, and all-around great vibes. Sunny season tends to go by in a flash each year, so finding a genuinely exciting and cost-effective way to make the most of it before it's gone will likely be high on your priority list.
Hiking is one of the most accessible outdoor activities and a great way to spend time outside this summer. With relatively little kit required and the ability to tailor your hike to your fitness levels, it’s remarkably easy for each and every one of us to head out and explore the trails, mountains or moors this year. Check out our top tips for planning the perfect summer hike!
Choose a sensible route
First things first, when you head out on a summer hike, you’ll need to know where you are going. The beauty of hiking is that there is no set distance that you need to travel to say you’ve completed a hike, all that matters is that you get outside and put one foot in front of the other. There are a few factors that go into choosing a good route for your summer hike. Think first about the type of location you’d like to visit. Local trails and woodlands are a great place to start as they usually offer more shade to keep you cool in warmer conditions, are relatively free from big crowds, and tend to be well-marked and well-maintained. If you’re not too savvy with a map, there are some great online tools out there like AllTrails which help you to see tried and tested routes for a guaranteed successful summer hike!
Think about the conditions
The weather should be slightly less of a concern than in winter, but it’s still essential that you plan for the conditions properly before heading out on your summer hike. Check the forecast ahead of the day for showers, UV levels and pollen. If there is a chance of thundery showers, you might want to adapt your route slightly to find shelter along the way or have a lightweight jacket handy in your waterproof backpack. On the other hand, if your summer hike is set to be a scorcher, take appropriate precautions. You should always wear suncream with high SPF and don’t forget to take enough water in your bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.