Today, I’m sharing some common mistakes that first-time trekkers often make. These are blunders that many of us have experienced ourselves, and we can’t help but chuckle when we think back on them. However, we’ve also learned from these mistakes and have become better trekkers because of them. Those new to trekking will find this information helpful and avoid making the same errors we did. Let’s get started.
1. Excess Clothing
Many people bring along excess clothing such as additional t-shirts, pants, layers for warmth, towels, socks, and undergarments when embarking on their first Himalayan trip due to concerns about potential scenarios that may arise.
Thoughts in Mind – What should I do if I require a new outfit upon arriving in the urban areas?
Gradually, their partially filled backpacks start to fill up and spill over with clothes they no longer want. They carry these bags unnecessarily during the trek, or even worse, they decide to get rid of them by offloading them.
Alternative actions to consider:
Consider packing only the essentials and leaving the rest behind. You’ll be surprised at how much you can accomplish with a smaller wardrobe.
Pack a maximum of two T-shirts in addition to the one you’re wearing, and bring only one extra pair of pants or shorts. You can quickly get by with just one team.
It’s wise to avoid the discomfort of switching to cold clothing after wearing warm attire. You can minimize the need for multiple extra outfits by practising good hygiene.
2. Inappropriate attire can hinder a successful trek.
Jeans may seem warm and comfortable, but they can be problematic. They can be heavy, difficult to move around in and take forever to dry if they get wet. It’s best to avoid wearing jeans on a trek, as they can make the experience much more challenging than it needs to be.
Some trekkers opt for a single, thick leather jacket, believing its bulk will provide sufficient warmth.
Similarly, when it comes to down jackets, people believe that these lightweight jackets, labelled as suitable for very low temperatures, are sufficient to handle freezing conditions independently. It is frustrating to see stores exaggerate the effectiveness of these jackets.
Trekkers realize too late that they were mistaken.
Alternative actions to consider:
Always bring layers with you, regardless of what others may advise. Bring either 3 or 5 layers, depending on the season of your trek. Ensure that each layer is lightweight.
Layers help to retain your body heat by trapping it and preventing it from escaping, thus keeping you warm through the insulation provided by your body warmth.
Sleeping bags function comparably. Despite claims of handling -10 degrees, sleeping in a t-shirt is not advisable. To effectively retain body heat, it’s essential to wear multiple layers. Therefore, it’s best to disregard the numerical rating and base your decision on what seems practical and reasonable.
3. Not Using Trek Pole
Many trekkers opt not to use a trekking pole, and it’s unclear why. Is it due to pride or the belief that trekking bars are only for older individuals? Regardless of the reason, this way of thinking needs to be revised.
Either they misuse it or need more understanding of its function and purpose, resulting in not fully utilizing their poles and viewing them as ineffective.
Consider an alternative approach:
Employ a trekking pole and utilize it properly. It helps maintain stability and balance, thereby preventing falls. I’ve had numerous instances where a trekking bar has saved me from injuries by breaking my fall.
As you go downhill, a trekking pole is a valuable tool. Not only does it help you maintain your stability, a crucial aspect of descending, but it also prevents your knees and toes from experiencing the intense discomfort often associated with going downhill.
Moreover, using a trekking pole is a valuable support to reduce the energy you expend. Even a modest 5% energy savings can be significantly appreciated when embarking on a Himalayan journey. A trekking pole can conserve up to 40% of your energy. This significant difference can determine whether your trek becomes an enjoyable experience or a challenging one.
Put your ego aside and grab a hiking pole. Learn the proper techniques for utilizing a trekking pole with the help of this instructional video below.
Play Video
4. Overpacking Toiletries
Trekkers often make the mistake of overpacking toiletries for long trips, lugging around unnecessary items like shampoo, conditioner, face wash, sunscreen, moisturizer, face cream, deodorant, perfume, toothbrush, and toothpaste. This takes up valuable space and adds unnecessary weight to their backpacks.
Instead, consider the following alternatives:
- Opt for a small medicine bottle.
- Fill it with liquid soap from your home. This amount will suffice for the entire journey.
- Bring a toothbrush, but refrain from purchasing toothpaste.
- Request a small amount of toothpaste from fellow trekkers who will likely have some.
- If you’re uncomfortable with this approach, consider bringing a small tube of toothpaste instead.
After that, grab a little tube of sunscreen. It’ll be your go-to for hydrated skin, a facial moisturizer, a lip balm, and more! To have a pleasant scent, use a tiny roll-on deodorant.
When it comes to medications, avoid buying packs of 10 tablets. You only need four tablets (except for Diamox). Your emergency medication should be compact enough to fit into a matchbox. Keep this in mind.
5. Purchasing Worng Backpacks
Inexperienced trekkers often rely heavily on the advice of sales representatives when purchasing backpacks, failing to conduct their research beforehand. As a result, they may end up with an ill-suited backpack, making them vulnerable to criticism.
They often end up with stylish backpacks that need to be more practical for long hikes. Many of these backpacks are similar to potato sacks and can be a hindrance during high-altitude treks.
Instead, find out more about the features of a high-quality backpack. A good backpack should include an internal frame, be compact, and maintain its shape even when packed with your belongings. Also, make sure it has all the necessary straps.
Perfect! Here’s a rewritten version of the paragraph:This comprehensive guide covers all the essential components of a high-quality backpack, providing valuable insights for anyone looking for a new backpack. Share this article with friends and family members currently shopping for the perfect backpack.
About the Author: Trekking Expertise You Can Trust
Director & Founder
With over 12 years of experience in the Himalayas, he has summited multiple 6000–7000 meter peaks and led more than 200 expeditions across iconic routes like Bali Pass, Buran Ghati, Rupin Pass, Pin Bhabha, Stok Kangri, and Black Peak. His deep mountain experience and leadership make him a trusted name in Himalayan trekking. Write to him at: preetam@trekupindia.com
