Hiking in new terrain and exploring the unexplored is every adventurer’s quest. Trekking in the mountains is one of the best ways to escape from everyday hassles, devote some time to Mother Nature and enjoy some serenity. Long hours of walk through luscious green valleys, thundering waterfalls, tranquil lakes, cool streams and breathtaking mountains is sure to give you an ecstatic feeling.

However, hiking and trekking do not bring with them only good memories. While some experiences can be exhilarating, others can get you into trouble and ruin your trek. At times, you may come across some obstacles that can challenge the last bit of your confidence, especially while walking through unknown and secluded territory. Such a situation may call for emergency evacuation or even hospitalisation, putting a dent in your budget. Thus, it’s crucial to have a trekking insurance to cover your back.

While a hiking insurance can serve as an emergency back-up plan, it would be wise to follow some safety measures to avoid any unwelcome situation that can ruin the thrill. Following are the few safety tips you should follow while hiking and trekking in the mountains:

  1. Pack light without missing the essentials

While trekking in the mountains, it is always advisable to pack light so that the increasing height and gravitational pull do not slow you down. However, your rucksack must contain the following essentials:

  • First aid kit: antiseptic, bandages and plasters, antihistamines, antibiotics, painkillers etc.
  • Navigation: map, compass, GPS
  • Sun protection: sunscreen, sunglasses, hat
  • Insulation: jacket, raincoat, extra socks
  • Illumination: flashlight, lantern, headlamp
  • Fire: matches, lighter, fire-starters
  • Repair kit: rope, duct tape, multi-purpose knife
  • Nutrition: extra supply of no-cook nutritious food and nutrient-rich snacks like protein bars
  • Hydration: water, means of water purification
  • Emergency shelter: tent, space blanket, tarpaulin, sleeping bag

The list is extensive and adaptable, so consider the circumstances of your hike while assembling your backpack. More importantly, don’t forget to pack your domestic travel insurance.

  1. Learn to use a compass and read a map

While you should always have your mobile phone with you, be prepared for emergency situations where you may fail to find the network. During such a scenario, you cannot rely on your phone’s GPS service to guide you out. Instead, you should take up some time to brush-up your map and compass reading skills before heading out for a trek. Being able to tell where you are on a map will increase the chances of finding your way back to the trailhead or getting spotted by the evacuation team.

  1. Wear proper hiking gear

Depending upon the difficulty level of your hike, you may be fine wearing a pair of sneakers, or you may need to invest in a pair of hiking boots. A high-quality pair of hiking boots and socks can make the long walk comfortable and prevent blisters and twisted ankles. In case you find yourself sustaining either of these injuries even after sporting a proper hiking gear, you can get yourself treated under the road trip cover.

  1. Know your trekking environment

It’s essential to know your hiking environment so as to avoid getting injured when you are exposed to the forces of nature. Find out which plants and animals should be avoided and also do some research on the weather before you go on the hike. Further, doing some research on the hiking trail that you will be embarking on will enable you to know and be prepared for what you will be dealing with.

  1. Get yourself covered

Last, but definitely not the least, make sure to pack a travel insurance before setting out on a hiking and trekking trip. A few hours of research can help you zero-in on the best trekking cover from the plethora of trekking insurance policies available in the market.

For instance, you can opt for Bajaj Finserv Pocket Insurance, which offers cost-effective solutions to cater to your everyday insurance requirements. With a wide range of travel-related insurance plans – such as Road Trip Cover, Pilgrimage Cover, Trek Cover etc. – offering adequate coverage at affordable premiums, you can now rest assured about your trekking trip and enjoy your encounter with nature to the fullest.