Get ahead: Seven must-know tips when hiking in a group
Whether you’re an independent traveler hitting up a trail on your own, or part of an organized tour, there are some general hiking do’s and don’ts you should get acquainted with first.
I’ve been an independent traveler for a while. But I like to do a lot of my hikes as part of an organized group tour. This is so I don’t have to worry about navigation and emergency support (think falling off a mountain). And this peace of mind has been particularly useful for my last three hikes: the Routeburn in New Zealand, the Overland in Tasmania and Kokoda in Papua New Guinea.
What’s the appeal of going on a group adventure tour, alone? Well, for starters, everything is on your own terms. Right from making the decision to go, to what you’re eating for dinner. And it’s your down time. I know the experience can be daunting for some, but it doesn’t have to be.
The satisfaction you get from “you-doing-you” and the accomplishment of the adventure itself is enough of an endorphin enriched reward. What can make your experience even better is following some simple hiking do’s and don’ts so you really feel part of the community.
Here are my top seven hiking group etiquette tips
- Don’t judge the different “hiker types”. For some people, getting from Point A to B in the fastest time possible is their jam. Others (me included) take their time and amble along taking in the scenery and landscape. There’s no judgement here. Each hiker literally is walking in their own shoes, with the hike taking on its own meaning that’s unique to each individual.
- Don’t barge past. Always be considerate if you’re passing a fellow hiker. A simple smile and nod hello is more than enough. In some instances, you may have to wait if the path is narrow (find a suitable spot you can stand comfortably on that is off the track, not in a dangerous spot, or is disturbing the flora). If coming up from behind, be sure to make your presence known so there’s ample time for the individual to move over, or swing around to sight you. Not an easy feat if you’re carrying a large pack and poles!
- Do be considerate. When in communal shared areas, be efficient, save power and water where you can. Keep time to a minimum (eg. 2-3 mins in the shower) or let others know how long you’ll be; and always clean up as you go along (bring your rubbish bag with you).
- Don’t be late to designated activities. This applies to things like group briefings or meals and shows you have respect for your guides. You can set an alarm on your mobile for 10 minutes before the activity to make sure you are on time.
- Do familiarize yourself with your gear. Whether it’s setting up your tent, adjusting your pack or poles, or applying water purification tablets – have some trial runs before day one. There will be someone to give you a hand, but there is a baseline expectation that you’re self-sufficient.
- Do come prepared. If you are nursing an injury – like me with my knee – make sure you know how to strap and tape your injury and bring proper supplies that includes painkillers. You want to make sure you can take care of yourself on the spot if something flares up, so you’re not waiting or relying on someone else to fix it for you. You could otherwise be waiting for a long time. Not a good situation if the weather is about to turn, or the guide/next hiker is 30 minutes or more away…
- Do bring a sharing is caring attitude. The flipside of tip six. If you see or become aware that another hiker is struggling, make sure you reach out and ask if they’re ok. It also provides a little moment of connection. And it’s these small interactions that stay in the minds of those you’ve helped long after the hike has ended. Lifelong friendships will be made this way!
Hiking is my number one non-negotiable since injuring my knee and I’m super stoked I can keep doing what I love. If you’re interested in any of my recent hikes, visit the tour operator links below for more information.
If you’ve enjoyed this post, hit the subscribe button on the page. Don’t forget to follow me on Facebook or Instagram too. And if you’ve got any questions about the hikes, drop them in the comment box below. I’d love to share my experience.
Until next time,
Maryanne K
