101 guide to trekking

Choose a trek befitting your health and mental comfort. Start with a couple of easy treks before going for the big one. Treks are mentally more demanding, than physical.

Prepare for treks by doing brisk walking for a mile or more, each day.

While trekking in high altitudes, give time to acclimatise, think of arriving at the base camp a few days in advance.

Get the right equipment including a backpack that can be opened sideways, to segregate and access items easily.

Always carry a headlamp (not a torch), so that your hands are free for other things.

Carry medication.

A trek pole will be very helpful. If you forgot to carry one, use a stick.

Drink as much water as you can as your body requires more fluid at high altitudes.

It is advisable to take medicine under medical advice prior to the trek to prevent acute mountain sickness.

Leave a water bottle in your sleeping bag for the next day morning routine.

If you have to relieve yourselves in the open, please make a cat hole or leave a stone on top of used toilet tissue; this prevents them from being blown all over.

Travel light and change your innerwear once in two/three days, the outers can be the same as long as you want! Carry quick-to-dry clothing.

Park your ego and ask for help from your trek leader.

Ensure you carry all your garbage back to the city

Avoid chewing gum and playing loud music.

Get a decent pair of trek shoes, sneakers will not do! A pair of socks can last two-three days, based on temperature. Start using the trek shoes ahead of the trek; this makes it easier on your feet.

Take your pickles and chutneys along for long treks as food can get monotonous. Dry fruits can also make a hard climb easier..

Carry sun screen to protect yourself from UV rays and snow goggles while trekking on snow.

(Vipin is a kayaking and trekking enthusiast based in Bangalore)