Beginner's Hiking Guide
Your complete beginner's guide to hiking
Planning your first trail? We've put together everything you need to know to start hiking safely and confidently.
What to pack for a day hike
A good day hike doesn't require much — but the right essentials make all the difference. Here's what we recommend for any trail under 15km:
- Daypack (15–20L) — big enough for your gear, light enough to forget it's there
- Water (minimum 1.5L) — bring a collapsible bottle or water filter for longer trails
- Snacks — energy bars, nuts, or fruit for sustained energy
- Headlamp — always carry one, even on day hikes
- Emergency bivvy — compact, lightweight, and could save your life
- Multi-tool — fixes most trail problems in seconds
- Trekking poles (optional) — reduce knee strain on descents
How to choose the right trail
Start with marked trails rated Easy or Moderate. In Germany, look for Wanderweg signage. In Austria and Switzerland, yellow signs mark standard hiking trails — red signs indicate alpine terrain for more experienced hikers.
What to wear
Avoid cotton — it stays wet and causes chafing. Opt for lightweight synthetic or merino wool layers. Always bring a light waterproof layer, even in summer.
Trail safety basics
- Tell someone where you're going and when you'll be back
- Check the weather forecast before you leave
- Stay on marked trails until you're more experienced
- Turn back if conditions change — the mountain will still be there next time