Winter treks are magical, with fresh snow and beautiful scenic views at every turn of the trail. From November to March, these snowy mountains call out to all adventure and hiking enthusiasts.
Winter trekking may seem fun and thrilling, but to truly enjoy a hiking expedition in the snow, it requires preparation, both mentally and physically.
In this blog, we’ll give you 8 much-needed tips for trekking in winter that will help you prepare well and make your trekking expedition enjoyable and comfortable.
8 Essential Tips for Trekking in Winter
1. Wear Proper Layers to Stay Warm
For any trek, it’s important to wear proper clothes to stay insulated. In winter, wear at least 3-4 layers, starting with base layers, followed by fleece jackets and a down jacket and/or a wind and waterproof outer shell, depending on the chill factor, wind speed and chances of precipitation. This will regulate your body temperature and keep you warm. Choose synthetic material that absorbs moisture and dries quickly for comfort.
2. Fuel Up and Hydrate Regularly
Your body burns more calories in cold weather, especially when trekking through snow. So, pack calorie-dense snacks like dried fruits, nuts, and energy bars to keep your energy up.
Stay hydrated even if you don’t feel thirsty. Dehydration can hit you harder in the cold. Keep drinking water and warm liquids like tea or soup. They are comforting and will keep you warm and hydrated.
3. Keep Your Skin Protected
The cold can be harsh on your skin, and the sun reflecting off snow can be surprisingly strong. To keep your skin protected from UV rays, wear layers that have high UV protection (UPF 40 or 50+), use sunscreen every 2-3 hours and apply lip balm with SPF to prevent your lips from chapping.
For extra protection, cover exposed skin with a scarf, neck gaiter, or face mask to keep your skin away from both the sun and icy winds.
4. Choose the Right Footwear
Your feet are your lifeline on a trek. Invest in sturdy, waterproof trekking shoes with excellent grip. You can choose insulated boots with ankle support, which are ideal for snow treks.
5. Understand the Weather Conditions
Winter weather can be unpredictable. For a better experience, study the forecast and trail conditions before your trek. Keep an eye on changing weather, like signs of bad weather, avalanches, heavy snowfall, or strong winds. Carry a map or download offline maps to track your route.
6. Be Prepared for Emergencies
Being an adventure sport, you should always prepare for emergencies. It can save you from injuries and fatal situations. Always carry a basic first-aid kit with supplies like bandages, antiseptic, and painkillers. Make sure someone knows your trekking plan, and if possible carry a GPS device (in India and certain other countries, may require permission from the Government) for safety.
7. Learn to Walk on Snow
Walking on snow is different from hiking on dry trails. You need a steady pace and proper gear to avoid accidents. While walking on snowy terrain, make use of crampons or micro spikes for grip on icy sections. Use trekking poles for stability and balance. This will reduce pressure or weight on your knees and help you walk faster and with ease.
8. Protect Your Electronics from the Cold
The winter cold can drain your gadgets faster than usual. So, if you are relying on GPS or want to click beautiful shots, keep your electronics in insulated cases and store them close to your body to keep them warm. Also, carry power banks to recharge your devices on the trek.
Get Winter Ready with Reccy
Trekking in winter can be a surreal experience when done with the right mindset and preparation. As you gear up for your next trek, remember these essential tips and you will have the best trekking adventure in winter.
Need the right gear for your winter trek? Explore Reccy’s range of premium winter trekking apparel to hike the snow in style and comfort.