How to ensure a successful hike: 10 rules every tourist need to know

A few hours, one day or longer, with tents, backpacks and campfire cooking - there are different types of hikes, but you should always follow important rules.

The trip has to leave the best memories, not discourage you from repeating it again. OBOZREVATEL has collected the main rules you have to stick to during a hike so as not to spoil the tour for yourself or your fellow travelers.

Stick to the route

Hiking requires compliance with special "road" rules. You should always give way to those who are going up because it is more difficult for them to climb. It is forbidden to move along the roadway in a crowd and push on the road. It is most convenient to walk in a column behind each other on the side of the road to avoid danger. Do not overtake the guide or instructor. Before you go anywhere, inform the whole group about it.

Be cautious

Do not focus your attention entirely on beautiful flowers or trees. You might run into a cyclist who is coming towards you. If you are walking through a forest, there is a chance that you will encounter a horseback riding group. Therefore, you should be especially vigilant while hiking.

Remember that you are not the only tourist

Don't take up space all along the way and don't forget that you're not alone in the forest. Even if you have a good companion next to you, you shouldn't go in pairs if the trail is too narrow.

Form the line right

Everyone moves with different strength in a column. If you take children with you, they should always walk in the front. Even adults can lag behind or be very tired, so it's best to push the weakest members of the group forward so that the rest of the group can focus on them. Do not forget that everyone has different physical fitness.

Do not make too much noise

Hiking is a time when you can unite with nature, plunge into silence and enjoy the singing of birds. No one on a hiking trip wants to listen to loud laughter or shouting from strangers. To be respectful to all participants, try not to make too much noise.

Do not change the route

There are countries where it is not allowed to enter a protected area. You can be fined for such an act. If you take a different route without warning, you can get lost and endanger yourself and others.

Be polite

Say hello to the locals because they can be helpful to you. Be polite and friendly with other hikers, as this is a great opportunity to make new friends. No one is forcing you to become close friends anyway.

Do not litter

It is forbidden to leave garbage in places not designated for this purpose. All waste after meals must be taken away and thrown into the trash.

Don't forget about general rules

Hiking is a great way to get positive emotions, but your safety is the most important thing. A single step can ruin the impression of a trip. If you are going hiking in another country, read the internal regulations of that area. There are many restrictions in some countries. For example, in Europe you can't spend the night in tents everywhere.