Mountaineering is a great hobby. It provides you with many physical and mental health benefits, gets you some fresh air, as well as allows you to take in amazing views. Going mountain hiking, however, can quickly turn from peaceful and calming to dangerous and risky. It is crucial to be prepared for this turn of events and have the necessary skills to save yourself.

In this blog, we will discuss some basics of mountain survival.

There are many aspects to mountain survival and how to be prepared.

1. Terrain

The first thing to consider is mountain terrain. The terrain up in the mountains is different from your regular hiking trails. It is often very rocky and steep, and some trails are less accessible. Sometimes, you might be required to climb.

You will need a good-quality pair of boots to make sure you don’t slip and fall to prevent injuries. Also, walk slowly and pay close attention to the ground beneath your feet as losing ground on an icy, steep slope can even be deadly.

2. Weather

Weather conditions change significantly with altitudes. Mountain weather can be unpredictable and change quickly with no or very few warning signs. While you might experience warm and windless conditions at the start of your hike, the weather can become colder and stormier the higher you get. Be prepared accordingly and wear proper clothing. You need to be warm but able to move freely. Always pack extra layers of clothing.

Additionally, always check mountain weather forecasts before planning a mountain hike and avoid going into the mountains during winter altogether.

3. Shelters

While hiking in the woods and forests, it can be quite simple to find shelter; the opposite is true for mountains. The higher you climb, the less likely you are to find a good and reliable shelter. Often, you might be left to your own devices, so make sure you are skilled enough to build a shelter yourself.

4. Your fitness level

Hiking is a physically strenuous activity. Hiking through mountains even more so. You need to be in great physical shape before considering mountaineering as your hobby. When you get stranded in the mountains, it’s good for your body to be able to perform well without getting weak and tired quickly.

5. Be prepared

An important part of any survival plan is to avoid dangers when possible. You need to know anything you can before going out into the mountains. Before venturing out, do your research about the terrain specific to the mountain you’re going to.

Don’t plan on bringing just a small backpack. It’s best to be able to pack as many safety equipment and survival tools as you can carry without it being too heavy. A good quality backpack is essential to distribute weight evenly on your shoulders.