It’s easy to tell someone to go take a hike, but we thought we’d lean on a few experts for tips on how to do it properly! Hiking in remote wilderness presents its own distinct considerations versus walking hostel to hostel on the populated Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. In the end, the distance or destination doesn’t matter to your feet and body–you have to treat them both with respect and proper training will boost your butt and confidence.

We asked our expert Wild Women guides in Scotland, Croatia and Peru to share their packing hacks with us. From snacks to backpack must-haves and their favourite climbs, let’s go for a walk with these gals!

Hiking Hacks from Emy McLeod, Scotland

Name three must-haves in your own personal backpack…

A map and compass are must-haves when I go hiking! They may not get used depending on the route, but having them with me is essential for safety.  

A first aid kit is in my backpack at all times (and that includes an emergency blanket as well). And a mobile phone with the ICE (in case of emergency) contact saved. 

What’s your favourite pick-me-up on the trail? 

A flask of hot tea is always enjoyed at lunchtime when hiking! Nothing beats sitting down and taking in the views with a brew! Even in terrible conditions, a cuppa makes you feel better! A flapjack complements the flask of tea very well too.

What kind of socks do you wear on the trail? Or, what type of hiking boots/shoes do you swear by?

My hiking boots are Salewa and I have used this brand for a number of years now. They keep my feet dry, warm and the boots are really comfy to walk in. When planning for a trip it is good to ‘break-in’ your boots beforehand, to ensure they are a good fit and to avoid blisters during your hike. Wear them around your home and use the stairs as your hill to see how your toes and heels feel when gaining or losing height. Your socks are just as important as your boots! I wear Bridgedale and Smartwool socks because both brands have a great range of sock thickness to suit the time of year and Bridgedale now has a Vegan Coolmax range!

Any tips for novice hikers? 

• If rain is on the forecast for the day it is a good idea to have your waterproofs packed towards the top of your rucksack/day bag. This allows for easy access when needed and you won’t need to pull everything out of the bag to reach them. Invest in decent waterproofs, hiking boots and socks! Believe me, it is worth it! Nothing is worse than having constantly wet feet or leaky waterproofs.
• Practice packing your backpack! Work out a system that works for you with what kit you are packing so everything that is in the bag has its place. Give yourself time to prepare if you are doing long distance hiking. Find local trails or hills and work up the distance and ascent over a period of time. When doing so try to take everything you think you will be carrying when you do your hike–that way you will be carrying a similar weight on your back (this will also help indicate anything you may be carrying that is not needed!)

Favourite hike in the world… 

That is a hard one!! It would have to be in Scotland for me. I have hiked in other parts of the world too (Switzerland is certainly up there with the best…) but the wilderness and ruggedness here in Scotland wins my heart every time. My personal favourites in Scotland are the lowlands or high mountain areas of Glen Affric or Loch Coruisk on Skye. The landscape is breathtaking, especially in autumn with the changing colours. Hearing the rutting of the stags as you walk or seeing a golden eagle soaring above the tree line…views over to other glens, rivers flowing and lochs paving the glen floor–it is a sight for everyone to enjoy. 

Loch Coruisk on Skye is one of my favourite places personally and also to guide around. You get up close to the magnificent mountains of the Cuillin Ridge and get a real sense of awe when walking in this area. I feel alive when I hike in the mountains, a sense of freedom and calmness. This is one place in Scotland that really is a must-visit for a hike. The boat trip into Loch Coruisk itself is also noteworthy as you can usually always see seals!

Check out Wild Women’s Highlands Hiking Adventure itinerary here! 

Pješačenje (walking) with Darija Stipišić Polić, Croatia

Name three must-haves in your own personal backpack…

First aid kit, a change of clothes and a down jacket.

What’s your favourite pick-me-up on the trail? 

I must have something sweet and something salty. My favourite sweet is stroop wafel and for the salt part, peanuts.

What kind of socks do you wear on the trail? Or, what type of hiking boots/shoes do you swear by?

My favourite brand is Bridgedale, but I also have a lot of socks made from merino wool. For hiking boots, I prefer Salomon Mid GTX, but in warmer conditions and for lighter hikes I wear Salomon xa pro 3D or La Sportiva Raptor. 

Any tips for novice hikers? 

Start with small steps! Shorter hikes, small backpack. Challenge yourself but honestly assess your fitness level. Blisters are a nightmare so wear proper shoes and proper socks. A first aid kit is essential. An appropriate amount of food and water, depending on the distance. Always check the weather and wear proper clothing. 

Favourite hike in the world… 

Karanfili in Prokletije mountains, Monte Negro, the nature there was breathtaking…that was the only time I actually cried because of the nature beauty and wilderness. But the Velebit Mountains in Croatia, especially Paklenica National Park, that’s the place that I call home, because my soul lives there…and all my hikes there are my favourite.

Want to tag along with Darija in Paklencia? Check out Wild Women’s Charms of Croatia itinerary.

Walk this way with Haydee Delgado, Peru

Name three must-haves in your own personal backpack…

Identification, money and snacks!

What’s your favourite pick-me-up on the trail? 

Dried fruits, pecans, walnuts and chocolates.

What kind of socks do you wear on the trail? Or, what type of hiking boots/shoes do you swear by?

Cotton and alpaca socks, waterproof shoes.

Any tips for novice hikers? 

We recommend wearing trekking shoes a week before the trip, to avoid blisters and discomfort.

Favourite hike in the world…

The largest tropical glacier in the world! Qellqaya Peru, Cusco.

Follow Haydee on the legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Trek in 2022! Learn more about what to expect here.

Do the Legwork!

If you’re contemplating a Wild Women hiking adventure, get out there! Start walking. Start carrying a pack on your shoulders–even if it’s on a treadmill with the incline jacked up. There are several online tutorials for using hiking poles properly. Ask your local outfitter for their help in choosing the best gear for you! Talking about merino wool and Vibram soles is like catnip to them! Join a local hiking group or volunteer to walk dogs at your local humane society. You can also chat with Kate, our Adventure Specialist at adventure@wildwomenexpeditions.com to discover what hiking trip is best for you!

Boots, start walkin’…