With picture-perfect countryside, rugged coastlines and sky-scraping hills, there’s certainly plenty of choice when it comes to planning your UK walking holiday.
To help ensure your next trip goes without a hitch, we’ve compiled a list of the common mistakes many amateur walkers make. Take a look to ensure you avoid them!
Mistake #1: Choosing the wrong footwear
The first mistake usually only happens to novice walkers. No matter what route you take, a walking holiday will see you travelling many miles, which can be hard on your feet. As a result, it’s really important that you choose the right walking boots for your needs.
You can’t put a price on comfort, so it’s worth investing in a pair of quality walking boots. You can find a decent selection for less at a store like Brantano. Make sure the boots offer a secure fit without being uncomfortable and opt for a lightweight, breathable pair for both comfort and ease of movement.
Mistake #2: Packing for one type of weather
If there’s one thing we’ve learned about Britain, it’s that the weather can change within a matter of minutes. Whether you’re heading to the coast or the countryside, chances are you’ll experience everything from rain to hail and wind in one short weekend.
When packing for your trip, you should consider all potential weather scenarios. While weight is a factor to consider, you should still pack thin layers that can easily be removed if the sun does shine. Don’t forget your waterproof jacket and it’s often worth throwing in a pair of shorts too — just in case!
Mistake #3: Failing to be realistic
As a keen rambler, it’s only natural that you’ll want to tackle the more famous routes along tougher terrains and mountains. However, the routes you choose should always reflect your walking abilities — choosing a route that’s too tough will put yourself in danger and limit how enjoyable your holiday is.
When planning your holiday, identify whether you are a beginner, intermediate or advanced walker and choose your routes accordingly. Do your research so that you’re fully confident that it is right for you. Make sure you have reliable map-reading skills or a designated map reader accompanying you, as electronic GPS can fail in some areas.
By taking heed of these common mistakes, you can ensure that your walking experience is the best it can be.
