Sultry jungles, with roaring waterfalls, diverse terrains, abandoned huts reclaimed by nature, ancient civilizations, elusive wildlife and Mountain landscapes…there’s so much on our Earth to discover once you decide to get out and go for a walk! And since trekking in 2018 was the most popular adventure, we thought to share some basic etiquette of hiking a mountain. Try to abide by the rules of trekking eco-friendly as it will help to keep our environs clean and green.
Do give uphill trekkers the right of way
If you are going down, please yield to those going up. When climbing uphill, one’s field of vision is limited due to gravity, while those going downhill have a wider view and can easily see what lies ahead. Therefore, it is courteous to give way to hikers going uphill when you are descending.
Leave No Trace
Follow a ‘LEAVE NO TRACE’ policy for taking a dump on the mountains. Whenever you feel like pooping, find a spot that is far away from the campsite. The smell of faeces attracts wild animals to the campsite. Also, the spot must be far from water streams, as the bacteria in it will pollute the water. Lastly, carry a small shovel to dig a 6 cm hole and cover it after you are done. Place a heavy stone, so that no other trekker can dig it.
Use wet wipes to clean and take them along with you via a zip-lock bag. Do not throw the tissue papers or wet wipes, as it takes longer to decompose due to low temperatures. Pro Tip: Find a spot that has direct sun rays on it, this is because the sunbeams quicken the decomposition process of the poop.
Do not litter under any circumstances.
The primary rule is no littering on the mountain terrains because it gets really difficult to clean at such an altitude. So make sure you do not detriment it in the first place. Please carry portable dustbin along with you when you go on a hike. Wrappers of your quick snacks, plastic water bottles, wet-wipes and etc., please dump it all in a dustbin.
Smokers must not litter the beautiful terrains of mountains with cigarettes buds everywhere. And for women on periods, please use biodegradable pads/menstrual cups on a trek, as you might not get dustbin to throw sanitary pads/tampons if you can’t carry it along.
Respect The Other Trekkers
If you have experience in trekking or are new to it, it is crucial to show respect and look after your fellow team members. Show respect towards them if they walk at a slower pace, if they easily become tired, if they feel scared, if they lack knowledge about equipment, or if they become ill. Avoid being rude, as you may have trekked multiple times before while the other person may be experiencing it for the first time. Simply adhere to the principle of HYOH (Hike your own hike). If you wish to assist them, strive to make their trek a successful journey so that they are encouraged to do more in the future.
Walk and Talk
By this phrase, ‘walk and talk’ I don’t mean you must talk to the trekkers while hiking. What I meant is that, you must introduce yourself at least once because at times of emergency the trekkers will be your immediate saviour. Be friendly, talk about the beauty of mountains, share your travel stories or if you can’t do that be courteous, friendly and polite to each other. Who knows you might find a trekking buddy!
Please follow the regulations for the use of tents.
When sharing a tent with someone, there are specific guidelines to follow. To prevent the tent from smelling, it is important to leave your shoes and socks outside. If the weather is damp, store your shoes in a plastic bag outside the tent. Avoid hanging wet clothes over the tent as it appears unsightly. Instead, bring a thin rope to tie between poles and use it to dry your clothes. Keep your belongings in a somewhat organized state, avoiding the need to empty your entire bag each time you require something. Pack your bag accordingly, placing items needed for the next day on top.
Please replace your socks every 48 hours during extended hikes. During sleep, the bacteria from your socks can transfer onto the sleeping bags, causing unpleasant odors for subsequent trekkers. It is important to maintain cleanliness and hygiene for both yourself and the tent throughout the entire journey.
Please refrain from consuming the food belonging to fellow hikers.
Please! Please! Please! DO NOT eat food snacks of other trekkers without asking them. It is really immoral because hikers are generally hungry all the time. The snacks like chocolates, protein bars, chips etc might be their drive force to trek upwards. Eat only when the person offers you, or ask can I have a bite? It’s that simple!
If you are planning to go trekking in the mountains, it is important to adhere to these guidelines, regardless of your location. By following these simple rules, you will not only help preserve the environment but also serve as a role model for other trekkers who may not be aware of them. Lastly, continue climbing and may you successfully reach the peak of every mountain you hike!
