Walking tours, whether you’re hiking the Alps or walking through sunflower fields in Tuscany, are wonderful ways to get outdoors, burn some calories and experience the beauty of the world. But if your feet start to hurt or you run out of water to drink, your fun may dissipate in a hurry.
As a leader in active travel, Backroads takes guests on hundreds of walking trips every year and our Trip Leaders make sure everyone enjoys their walking trip the fullest. Here are 10 tips from our Trip Leaders to make sure you have the best walking tour:
- Strengthen abdominal muscles before your adventure trip to prevent lower back pain.
- Train by time, not by miles. You’ll be spending most of your day hiking on a Backroads trip. Get comfortable going slower for longer periods of time.
- Eat and drink small amounts often.
- Consider using a personal hydration system (such as a CamelBak); if you’ve never tried one, use it before leaving home since some people find them uncomfortable for the neck and shoulders.
- Dress in layers: a breathable synthetic layer (never cotton, which stays wet once you’ve begun to sweat) next to your skin; a light insulating layer or vest; a windproof/waterproof layer on top. If you’re comfortable for the first 10 minutes of activity, you’re overdressed!
- Use high-quality socks. Your feet will thank you for wrapping them in padded, insulated, breathable materials such as Capilene or Smart Wool.
- Think about resting the leg that is not active. While hiking, this means relaxing your foot as you swing it forward to the next step.
- When you start feeling tired or sore, change your pack position while hiking.
- Loosen your shoe laces at the first sign of foot discomfort; feet swell after prolonged physical activity.
What are your best tips for preparing for and getting the most from a hiking tour? Be sure to browse our vast selection of hiking trips like our popular Vietnam and Cambodia Walking and Hiking Tour or our New Tuscany Cooking and Walking Tour. Call us at 800-462-2848 today with your questions or to book a hiking tour. Happy travels!