7 Irresistible Mistakes New Nature Explorers Make

According to SAEDNEWS, Nature trekking and mountaineering are thrilling and dangerous activities that require skills, awareness, and experience. Even the simplest mountains can become a breeding ground for mistakes and, ultimately, disaster if attention is not paid to key points. Here, we briefly explain some common mistakes in mountaineering and nature trekking.

Not checking the weather conditions

One of the common mistake made by novice hikers is not paying attention to the weather. Bad weather can ruin a hike and even put you at risk, so always check the weather forecast for the area where you'll be trekking.

Not bringing sleeping gear

You may be a lightweight hiker, but when you go camping, you need to prepare for living conditions for several days, and that means paying attention to your sleeping comfort. If you're sensitive about your pillow, it's best to bring it with you and ensure your sleeping bag and blankets are warm enough. Also, remember to place a waterproof mat between your tent and the ground. Based on the weather conditions of the place where you plan to camp, bring suitable blankets and sheets to keep you warm throughout the night. Additionally, to ensure a long and restful sleep, you can use earplugs and an eye mask.

Leaving shoes outside the tent

A professional nature explorer never leaves their shoes outside the tent while resting. The reason is that at night, animals are attracted to the scent of sweat on the shoes, and they may either attack us or take our shoes with them. To avoid dirtying the inside of the tent, shoes should be placed inside a plastic bag, with the bag tightly sealed, and brought inside the tent.
It’s also recommended to bring a pair of plastic slippers for comfort and easy walking around the tent while camping.

Arriving late to the campsite

Anyone who has set up a tent in the dark knows the nightmare that awaits those who arrive late to the campsite. If you arrive late, in addition to the difficulty of setting up, you’ll likely find yourself in a spot near the restrooms, crowded with people. It’s better to plan your trip so that you have a few hours before sunset to choose the right location. Look for a flat and dry spot, free from small and large branches that could cause your tent to slip during rain.
If you arrive after sunset and in the dark, you’ll probably end up choosing a poor spot for your tent. In the darkness of the forest, you won’t have a clear view, which could result in improper setup of your gear and equipment.

Not having enough water and food

No matter how long your hike is, make sure you carry enough water to stay hydrated and enough food to maintain your energy levels. Carry at least one liter of water on an easy 3-kilometer walk, and at least two liters or more on a longer hike. This is one of the most common mistakes made by novice hikers and should be taken seriously, as it directly relates to your safety. Fortunately, new technologies in hiking backpack design have made carrying water much easier. When packing food for your trip, opt for options that are easy to eat and will keep your body energized. Think of sandwiches, nuts, and lightweight, high-energy foods. Salty snacks are also great for replenishing the electrolytes lost through sweat.

Choosing the wrong tent size

Our advice regarding tent size is to never trust the labels on the product box, especially when buying online. If a tent is labeled as suitable for three people, it’s better to read it as "suitable for one person with personal gear!"
Additionally, when the specifications state the tent fits two people, don’t doubt it — only one person will comfortably fit inside.

Lack of skill in using hiking and mountaineering equipment

Items like maps and compasses are almost always at the top of the essential gear list for hiking, but if you don’t know how to use them, they’re useless. Navigation is a crucial skill, and underestimating it is one of the most common mistakes made by novice hikers. If you plan to go hiking in the mountains during the winter but don’t know how to use safety and rescue tools, it’s better to reconsider your plans.