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If you could give your “beginner hiker self” one piece of advice – what would it be?

Sometimes the best advice doesn’t come from manuals or gear lists. It comes from people who’ve learned the hard way, one step at a time. Recently, the Facebook page Hike Like a Woman asked its community a simple question: “If you could give your "beginner hiker self" one piece of advice, what would it be?”

The responses poured in. Practical. Honest. Encouraging. Occasionally hard-earned. Together, they form a brilliant beginner’s guide, straight from the trail.

Here are the key lessons that came through loud and clear.

1. Hike Your Own Hike

  • Again and again, walkers reminded beginners that it’s not a race.
  • Go at your own pace. Take breaks. Stop comparing your distance, speed or fitness to others. Some days you’ll fly, some days you’ll crawl. Both count.
  • Put one foot in front of the other. Slow down. Look around. Enjoy the journey, not just the destination.

2. Shoes and Socks Matter (A Lot)

If there was one unanimous theme, this was it.

  • Wear shoes with good grip
  • Buy footwear that fits you, often half to one size bigger
  • Don’t wear brand-new boots on a big walk
  • Wool socks are worth the investment
  • Some swear by boots, others by trail runners or sandals in warm weather.
  • There’s no single “right” answer, just what works for your feet.

3. Poles Are Not Cheating

  • Hiking poles came up over and over, especially for downhill sections.
  • They help with balance, reduce strain on knees and hips, and can make long days far more comfortable. Many wished they’d started using them earlier.
  • A common tip from the community was to learn how to use poles properly, because technique really matters.

4. Carry Less, But Carry Smart

  • “You don’t need as much as you think you do” was a recurring refrain.
  • Lighten your pack where you can, but don’t skip the essentials. Carry the basics, including first aid, and think about how far you’ll have to carry every item you bring.
  • As one walker put it, know what to carry, when to carry it, and how many kilometres you’ll carry it for.

5. Eat, Drink, and Rest Before You Think You Need To

  • Hydration and fuel matter more than beginners often realise.
  • Drink before you feel thirsty.
  • If you’re suddenly exhausted, stop and eat. You’re probably hungry.
  • If you think you’ve brought enough water, bring a bit more.
  • Small snacks, regular breaks, and enough sleep before a hike all add up to a safer, happier day out.

6. Prepare, But Don’t Wait Forever

  • Preparation matters. Planning matters. But so does actually getting out the door.
  • Half the battle is starting. Don’t wait until everything feels perfect. You’re stronger than you think, and experience is the best teacher.
  • Plan properly, then go.

7. Safety Comes Before Summits

  • Several comments reminded beginners that the mountain will always be there.
  • If conditions aren’t safe, turn back. If the weather changes, adjust your plans. There’s no shame in choosing another day.
  • Being prepared also means knowing when not to continue.

8. Solo or With Others, Both Are Valid

  • Some encouraged hiking with a buddy. Others spoke passionately about solo walking.
  • The consensus was clear. Both are fine, as long as you plan appropriately, know your limits, and take responsibility for your safety.
  • There’s no single “right” way to experience the trail.

9. Strength, Stretching and Recovery Matter

  • Bushwalking isn’t just about walking.
  • Stretch regularly. Strengthen feet, ankles and joints. Build strength off the track as well as on it. Your body will thank you, especially on the descents.

10. Be Present

Finally, beyond gear and technique, many people shared something deeper.

  • Stop. Look around. Put yourself in the way of beauty. Be open to discomfort, healing, joy, and the quiet moments that happen between footsteps.
  • For many, bushwalking becomes more than exercise. It becomes a way to reconnect.

One Last Piece of Advice

  • Just go.
  • Don’t wait. Don’t overthink it. Hike more often. Enjoy every step. It’s almost always worth it.

With thanks to the community at Hike Like a Woman for sparking the conversation and generously sharing their hard-earned wisdom.