Budget-Friendly Hiking: How to Plan an Affordable Outdoor Adventure
Those who have never hiked may think this is an inexpensive hobby. They can’t understand why it would cost a lot to get out and enjoy nature. However, a hiking trip can be costly. Thrifty adventurers realize this and have come up with ways to keep costs down.
Be Selective About Hiking Trails
Hiking trails vary in cost. When a person is looking for cheap hiking experiences, they should avoid iconic trails like the Appalachian Trail or the Pacific Crest Trail. Popular trails come with a higher price tag. Consider visiting a state park or national forest with a low entrance fee. Some parks and forests have no entrance fee. Consider taking several short hiking trips rather than one long trail.
Know When to Hike
Plan a hiking trip during the shoulder season because prices tend to be lower when fewer tourists want to make the same trip. Spring and fall are good times to hike, and a person might find great deals on lodging and transportation. Try not to hike on a holiday weekend or during the summer months because trail prices increase and the trails tend to be more crowded.
Save on Gear
Hiking gear is necessary, but it can be expensive. Before purchasing new gear, consider renting it to see if you’ll use it regularly. A person might rent gear only to find they don’t like it. Retailers frequently offer end-of-season sales, and a person can get quality gear for discounted prices during these sales. Outlet and second-hand stores are other options a person might wish to consider.
People should look for those items that serve multiple purposes. Not only will they save money, but they will have less to carry on each trip. The one thing a person should spend money on is a good pair of hiking boots. Nobody wants to get halfway through a trail only to find their feet hurt and they don’t want to continue. They will still have to make their way back to their vehicle or another predetermined destination.
Saving on Transportation
Hikers first need to get to and from the trailhead. Securing this transportation can be costly. Consider carpooling with others who are also going on the hike, or use public transit if it is available. If money is a concern, plan a trip close to home. When flying, purchase tickets in advance and be flexible about dates for the hike.
Where to Stay?
When hiking, people often choose to camp along the trail. This remains the most affordable option. However, hikers should have a backup plan if the weather changes and camping isn’t feasible. Hostels and other hiker-friendly accommodations should be researched before the trip begins, and hotels should be used as a last resort. Nevertheless, hikers must get a good night’s sleep before taking off on the trail. They don’t want to be exhausted while hiking because they will miss out on the natural beauty, wildlife, and other attractions along the way.
Meals on the Trail
Hikers should plan their meals and prepare them before hitting the trail. Lightweight foods that contain lots of calories are best because they require less weight for the hiker to carry while maximizing their nutrition. Purchase foods in bulk and repackage them into smaller portion sizes. Carry a portable water filtration system to obtain water while on the trail instead of relying on plastic bottles.
Hiking can be an expensive hobby. However, people can have great adventures without spending a lot if they plan. The sights and sounds, once they are on the trail, cost nothing, and yet they are the best part of the trip.
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