From chasing sunsets to weekend adventurers looking for headspace, more of us are stepping into nature. And for good reason. A trail is more than just a walk, it’s breathwork, it’s leg day, it’s low-stakes therapy (without the scrolling).
But not every hike goes to plan. We've all had the "this water bottle isn’t enough" moment, or packed way too much (or forgot snacks altogether). Whether you’re new to trails or basically live in your hiking boots, here are 10 mistakes we’ve actually made, and how to avoid them.
1. Underestimating the Trail
📍Mistake: Thinking “it’s just a quick walk”, and skipping the research.
✅ Fix: Trail length, incline, shade, weather; it all matters. Use AllTrails, Komoot, or check local park sites. Know what you're walking into (literally).
2. Wrong Shoes = No Fun
📍Mistake: Trainers with zero grip. Or brand-new boots that haven’t met your feet yet.
✅ Fix: Go for shoes made for trails. Break them in first. Comfort > Everything.
3. Not Bringing Enough Water
📍Mistake: A single reusable bottle. You’re sweating. There’s still 2 hours to go.
✅ Fix: 500–750ml per hour. Pack more in heat. Electrolytes if you're pushing it.
4. Forgetting SPF
📍Mistake: “It’s cloudy.” (Meanwhile: UV rays doing their thing.)
✅ Fix: SPF 30+, reapply, hat, SPF lip balm, sunnies. Always.
5. Weather? Checked Once.
📍Mistake: Forecast looked fine this morning, but now it’s moody.
✅ Fix: Look at the hourly forecast before you go. Bring a light waterproof layer.
6. Over/Underpacking
📍Mistake: A bag heavier than you are. Or… no snacks, no torch, no plan.
✅ Fix: Light, functional, intentional. Water, snacks, SPF & jacket.
7. Forgetting Trail Etiquette
📍Mistake: Loud music, cutting corners, leaving litter.
✅ Fix: Respect the trail, the people, the planet. Pack it in, pack it out. Nature’s not your gym, it’s shared space.
8. Solo Hiking with No Backup
📍Mistake: Going off-grid and telling no one.
✅ Fix: Always share your route and return time. Apps like Strava Beacon or Garmin InReach help friends keep track (just in case).
9. No Navigation Skills
📍Mistake: “I’ll follow the signs.” (Or the people in front of me.)
✅ Fix: Download maps before you go. Know how to read trail markers. Paper map as backup = smart move.
10. Pushing Past Your Limit
📍Mistake: Just one more summit… when your body said stop an hour ago.
✅ Fix: Tune in. Turn back if you need. Rest isn’t weakness, it’s wisdom.
Hiking should feel good. And that starts with feeling prepared. It’s not about breaking records, it’s about giving yourself space, moving with intention, and knowing the small things (like the right layers, SPF, and snacks) can make all the difference.
