1. Make a Hiking Plan
Cross-country hiking involves traveling through backcountry or extensive trail systems. It's not the same as hiking to the other side of your city park. It can't be spur of the moment; you need a plan. This plan should involve knowing as much about what lies ahead of you as possible. Decide on hiking trails and a realistic timetable. Hiking a mile on hilly terrain takes much longer than walking a mile down the street. Plus, if you rush, you can't enjoy all that nature has to offer. However, don't take avoidable risks just to stick to a plan. You can't control outside influences like the weather.
2. Shape Up to Ship Out
Are you up for the challenge of a cross country hike? Don't count on the hike getting you in shape; you have to be in shape now. Exercise regularly, both cardiac and weight training, if possible. On weekends, make practice hikes with a backpack that is slightly heavier than your cross country load will be. Try backpacking on nearby short hiking trails and take longer hikes too. By the time your trip starts, your muscles and endurance will be ready.
3. Dress for Success
You never know what awaits you on the trail, which is part of its appeal. But, you can be better prepared by dressing the part. Your best friend on the hiking trail is hiking boots or shoes. If you have hiking boots, try them on to make sure they still fit. If you plan to buy new hiking shoes, break them in ahead of time, so that blisters don't break out on your feet on day one of the cross-country trip. Dress in layers that you can add or take off as needed. Remember that it's cooler at higher elevations, and nighttime can be downright cold in the backcountry.
4. Gear Up for Cross-Country Hiking
The difference between a day hike and a cross country hike becomes more evident when you think about hiking gear that cross country hiking requires. Food and drink top the list, but there's more. You don't want to carry the kitchen sink in a backpack, but other good things to remember include a first aid kit, bug spray, tent and bed roll, cooking gear and raingear. Look for lightweight backpacking gear from wilderness or backpacking retailers. Take a trail map and compass to keep oriented on hiking trails. Many experienced hikers also never leave home without a trusty hiking stick.
5. Rest Before You Feel the Need
Hiking isn't a competitive sport to see who reaches a destination quickest, but it is strenuous. Find a comfortable hiking pace that allows you to stop occasionally to rest. In fact, aim for rest breaks before you need them. The exhausted hiker is more prone to dehydration or injuries. Use rest breaks to refuel with food and water. If you hike with a group, which you should, make a plan to meet at a specific location if hikers with different hiking paces become separated.
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