The Term trek generally refers to walking in the countryside for pleasure or sport, usually for a longer period of time. It is also defined as a journey on foot especially on the mountains by a trekker. Trekkers is the travelers who make long difficult hiking through mountainous countries.
It is really an excitement with the challenge to be a trekker. There are certain criteria and plans one should know before starting a trek. You should know the following things to Prepare for a Trek and Hike.
Body level should be in a good physical state
To get a good physical state one should do exercise like squats, running long-distance, walking, and swimming, which helps to build the body’s stamina.
In order to prepare oneself for trekking, we should do daily exercise which helps to prepare the body for exerting more energy required during the trek.
To enjoy the trekking journeys, it is very essential to be fit, healthy, and feel fine. Because most trekking trails tend to follow high elevations, which makes many people suffer from altitude sickness and exhaustion.
In higher altitudes, the number of Red blood cells (RBC) in the body will increase due to compensating by the body for the lack of oxygen at higher altitudes. Doing physical check-ups and consulting with the doctor is very important before undergoing trekking which helps to be prepared for your body’s reaction and adaptation to a different elevated environment.
If necessary medications after counseling with the doctor can prevent the chance of any nuisance and mishap during the trek.
To prepare both mentally and physically for the trek meditation and yoga can be done followed by jogging and other walks. Being strong and developing self-confidence keeps more value then muscles and stamina in the body. Short hiking in different places will really be an asset to trekking on-mountain in Nepal.
Training is very important rather than being very strict in the gym. Walking long distances should be practiced. More Healthier the body, the better will be the trek.
Required Equipment needed for trekking should be known
The equipment required for trekking depends on the type of trekking. (tea house or camping), time of year, general weather conditions,s and the maximum altitude of the trek.
The equipment essential for the trek and Hike can be listed below;
Clothing
- Warm jacket – down jacket,
- Water and windproof jacket (alternatively bring a poncho or umbrella)
- Long-sleeved synthetic fleece (windproof material, if possible)
- Thermal underwear
- Hat, a pair of gloves and a scarf
- Comfortable hiking trousers. (loose fitting)
- Shorts and trousers, or a skirt
- 2 pairs of warm wool-blend socks
- 2 pairs of running socks or liner socks
- Proper hiking boots
- Running shoes and flip-flops
- 2-3 T-shirts
- Water bottle
- Snow glass
- Hiking/trekking boots
Equipment necessary for hiking and trekking
Trekking Gear
To avoid potential snow blindness pair of polarizing sun-glass is required
To protect against rain and dust backpack and backpack cover are necessary
Trekking map
Head torch or small torch, plus spare batteries
Sleeping bag and silk liner water bottle
Miscellaneous
Toiletries (shampoo & Condition)
A small lightweight and quick daring towel
Bar & soap
Sunscreen
Earplugs
For lower-elevation insect
Repellants are required
First aid Kid
Water filter or water purification tablets.
Some Diamox pills against potential altitude sickness (if going beyond 4000-meter elevation )
Toilet paper
Optional items
Camera, batteries, altimeter, compass, books magazine, trekking pole, GPS, sewing repair kit, pocket knife torch, diary or notebook plus the pen
DIY Camping
Tent
Stove and fuel
Sleeping map
Food and water for remote area
Cooking, eating and drinking curtails
Sleeping bag
Pillowslip in case
Sleeping bag liner
Toiletries & Personal Hygiene
Quick-dry towel & facecloth
Shampoo & condition
Tooth Brush & paste (biodegradable)
Towel for face and body
Deodorant
Moisturizer
Anti- wipes
Hand sanitize
Sunblock face/Body high UV protection
Lip Block With UV protection
Feminine Hygiene Products
Select Best Time/Season
As time and tides wait no one. The right decision at the right time always leads to success. And we can reach our destination. It is important to select the timing when and where you want to be. We should be familiar with the weather and climate which keeps on changing. You must choose the place for the traveling or trek according to a suitable month and season.