Trekking in the winter and the summer is a totally different experience. It’s important to prepare for your hikes in preparation because it might come in handy whenever and wherever you are. Studying a few winter hiking guidelines can help you get ready for any hike you plan to go on while staying warm and safe. Whether you’re walking through the snow outside or simply admiring the scenery, this winter hiking advice will surely make your experience enjoyable. All of the factors that contribute to a trek in the great outdoors being secure can be met with the right equipment, tips, clothing, and attitude for winter hiking.

“Cold weather might be a problem on any hiking trip at any time of year, not just in the dead of winter. Depending on your location and the area you’re hiking in, you may come across chilly weather at any time of year, which might make your journey uncomfortable or, worst yet, result in a significant injury or disease,” says Gayatri Mohanty.

Check the weather and trail conditions in advance

Being aware of the weather is one of the most essential winter hiking tips because it can affect the trail by covering it with new snow, which can be quite confusing while you are hiking. Knowing the weather conditions also makes it easier to avoid hiking when there are strong winds, chances of heavy snowfall, or poor visibility. It is therefore advisable to be aware of the anticipated temperatures and wind speed ahead. You can always hike safely in the snow if you follow our advice.

Maintain constant hydration

When trekking in the cold, always make sure you have an insulated bottle and a bottle sleeve with you. If you do this while hiking in bitterly cold weather, the water won’t freeze. If you forget to bring an insulated bottle on your trek or don’t have one, you can also use a spare sock or wrap the water bottle in a towel to keep it warm and insulated.

Carry the proper winter hiking equipment

If your upcoming trip includes hiking paths, you must pack the appropriate winter hiking equipment. When hiking, wearing the appropriate shoes, bag, jacket, and even jeans can make a big impact. The most important thing to remember when trekking in the snow is to keep yourself warm. You can begin by donning a base layer, followed by a fleece jacket that serves as your intermediate layer, and finally a jacket or down jacket that will aid in insulation and safeguard your body from the cold. Softshell trousers are typically advised when trekking in the winter because they are great at maintaining body heat at all times and shielding you from severe winds and snow.

Pack extra equipment

A fire starter, first aid kit, pocket knife, emergency blanket, waterproof matches, and a waterproof backpack are a few other items you can bring with you on your trek. Bringing an extra kit on your hike will always come in handy and be beneficial for surviving in adverse weather. When you are trekking in snow, all of these things will make a huge impact. Since trekking in snow can be slick and slushy when the snow is melting, they also give you protection and a better grip on the snow.

For your winter hike, bring snacks

During your hikes, it’s critical to keep yourself hydrated and energised at all times. Your body often needs twice as many calories to stay warm and hydrated while trekking in the winter as it does at other times of the year. In order to keep energised at all times, be sure to pack yourself some meals that are both very nutritional and protein-rich. Organic pumpkin seeds, granola bars, protein bars, and even your own homemade trail mix are all suitable for carrying as cold-weather snacks.

Consistently keep your feet warm

While snowshoeing, it’s crucial to keep your feet warm. Make sure you include several pairs of wool-based hiking socks that will keep moisture off of your damp skin. In the event that it gets wet while you’re hiking, it dries rapidly and also aids in heat insulation. When trekking, snow is kept off of your feet at all times by donning hiking boots that go up to the ankle. A pair of gaiters, which save your feet from getting buried in the snow, is another item you can get. As you’ll be spending a lot of time in your boots during your winter excursions, it’s ideal to wear comfy ones.

Hike during the daytime

When we hike on our trails in the summer, we often try to stay out of the sun. In contrast, hiking in the winter is completely different. To feel the warmth of the sun in the chilly months, we would basically do anything. You’ll be able to stay warm and have a better time hiking if you plan your hikes for when the sun is out and blazing brightly in the sky. Due to the drop in temperature in the evening, it is also recommended that you schedule your hikes so that you begin early and finish before the sun sets.

When it comes to layering in winter, there aren’t any hard and fast rules in fashion. However, if you are beginning to start layering clothes, you may need a few tips to proceed. And as you become familiar with it, you can experiment with different choices. The thing with winter fashion is you don’t get the luxury of showing a lot of skin. If you are thinking of layering clothes, pair them smartly. In simple words, go stylish, not bulky. This article will help you teach how to style layers in winter!

Don’t forget winter basics

While shopping for winter basics, always remember how you would build different looks and invest according to that. Our eyes often catch glimpses of quirky pieces, but sometimes they wouldn’t go with the whole outfit. That’s where winter basics show their power. For basics, you can go with oversized sweaters, as these are in trend; there are cardigans or pullovers which you can easily pair with a denim button-up blouse.

Combine different fabrics and colours

Try combining different types of fabrics and textures in one outfit. For example, you can pair a lightweight silk-knit shirt of a classic tone with a sequined blazer and create a whole fancy party or holiday look.

Put on a cosy sweater

Put on a cashmere-silk blend pullover that will keep you protected without overheating. Purchase comfortable pullovers that can go well with anything, and you can wear them easily.

Add an oversized coat

Adding an oversized coat on top of your layered winter basics looks super stunning. Oversized coats can also be donned over dresses. Add a pair of leather boots to complete your overall look.

Combine different lengths

Combine clothes of different lengths to look elegant during winter. For example, styling a pencil skirt of size up to mid-calf with knee-high boots is a great stylish combination. Adding an oversized coat makes the whole look fantastic.

Accessorising

Scarves are beautiful winter accessories that go with all fashion ensembles. Invest in a faux-fur Fendi scarf, which will give you an edgy and warm look. Besides scarves; you can also accessorise your look with a hat, handbag or jewellery that complements your look.

Once you’ve become familiar with how to layer during winter, you can easily begin mixing patterns, playing with textures, and going monochromatic and colour-blocking. Make sure all your clothes fit you well and bring out your personality.

Do not be paranoid, enjoy the outdoors as they revive you holistically. Avoid strenuous activity or extreme terrain, advises Dr Atul Mathur, Executive Director-Interventional Cardiology and Chief of Cath Lab, Fortis Escorts Heart Institute

Just because you have had a cardiac event — be it heart attack, heart failure, stroke, coronary artery disease (CAD), cardiac arrhythmia (irregular heart rate), a heart surgery or stenting — doesn’t mean you cannot go on a holiday. Of course, strenuous travel is ruled out for people who have just had a procedure, intervention or developed a condition. For this lot of people, you must sit out and stabilise before venturing out. Others just have to get their health status reviewed before they proceed on a vacation, plan their days, identify triggers and stressors and go prepared with a medical kit. All everybody needs to do is to follow the advisory and not over-exert themselves. And do not forget to carry your latest heart reports. Keep them handy so that no time is lost should there be an emergency.

PRE-TRAVEL ROUTINE

Consult your cardiologist and run a fresh series of tests like ECG, stress tests, TMT and echocardiography. If you experience any abnormal discomfort while doing these tests or while walking, such as breathlessness or chest pain, report them to your doctor. Do not travel till he/she clears you.

IN THE HILLS

Most cardiac patients are under the impression that while the beach is a safe option, they cannot travel to the hills. We are often asked a particular question, “Can I go up to 10,000 feet, say Leh, with stents and bypass?” Even normal persons can have severe breathlessness on reaching high altitude if they start exerting before getting acclimatised. The same rule applies to all cardiac patients with normal heart function. Those with impaired heart function, however, need proper evaluation by their physician before planning a trip to Leh. If they do not qualify, the Himalayas at lower altitudes are no less beautiful.

If you are in a high altitude terrain, you should take Diamox over and above the prescribed medication. Also, keep yourself informed about the nearest medical facility. Seaside is always considered a better option as the fresh breeze airs out your lungs and oxygenates you well enough.

TELEMEDICINE OPTIONS

Teleconsult is legally allowed in our country and can be arranged with your own physician or other sources. Several wearable devices like Apple Watch can monitor the heart rate but the most important factor is to monitor your SpO2 levels.

INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL

Most cardiac patients can travel safely. Only those with weak hearts and ongoing active conditions should seek prior screening by a physician. If you are on a long haul flight, take plenty of fluids and frequent walks down the aisle. This eliminates the possibility of developing venous clots. It is for the same reason that you need to flex and move your ankle joints. Make sure you are carrying your travel insurance.

TAKE YOUR MEDICINE ON TIME

No matter what time zone you are in, please take your medication as prescribed at the right time and maintain the gap between doses. You can always reset your watch to India time to follow this regime.

Take a blood pressure monitor with you. Don’t forget to carry your medicines, including emergency ones, and keep some extra strips just in case you’ve had to overstay for some reason. Do not skip medicines while travelling.

Do not be paranoid, enjoy the outdoors as they revive you holistically. However, do not ignore chest pain, breathlessness or exhaustion and seek the opinion of your doctor immediately.

Travelers can easily explore five of of the most amazing national parks and everything in between because of Utah’s strategic position at the crossroads of the western United States. The geography of Utah is diverse, including high desert plateaus, alpine meadows, snow-capped peaks, and wetlands with plenty of birds.

In addition to endless outdoor activity, the diversified landscape is home to a variety of national parks and monuments, state parks, and cultural and historic events. It’s easier to see it all with a multi-week road trip. Therefore, your best bet is to pick a region you plan to start with, then return time and time again.

Utah is a friendly, beautiful, diverse, and eclectic place. If you don’t have a specific plan, you may get bogged down with decisions about where and how to travel. Here are some tips for traveling in Utah that will help you make the most of your time:

1. Travel by Car

Driving is the best way to navigate this large state and the quickest option for domestic tourists to get to Utah. With your car, whether rented or owned, you have the freedom to tour towns and national parks at your own pace. The trip can easily be done in an RV as well.

In your vehicle, you can experience the Scenic Byway, renowned for its spectacular views. The Mount Nebo Loop in Utah is one of the most beautiful drives in the country.

2. Carry a Credit Card and Cash

Most establishments accept credit cards. However, having some cash on hand is also a good idea. There are banks all around the state that provide reasonable exchange rates, and a lot of places have ATMs. Both McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas and Salt Lake City International Airport provide currency exchange desks.

3. Know the Controlled Substance Laws

In Utah, alcoholic beverages may only be purchased and consumed by those who are at least 21 years old. A passport is essential for international passengers as photographic identification of age.

Most eateries, bars, and nightclubs have permits to sell only beer and wine. In addition, alcohol cannot be sold on some reservations, including the Navajo Reservation in Monument Valley, according to regional tribal laws.

Furthermore, it is against the law in Utah to buy tobacco products if you are under 19 years old. Smoking is not permitted in any enclosed indoor public space except in limited instances.

4. Check the Weather

Utah’s weather is often relatively mild. Utah is semiarid with a lot of sunshine and dry, high-country air. However, everywhere in Utah has a different climate, from the distinctive desert environment of the American Southwest to whiteout blizzard conditions on high Rocky Mountain routes. This is because Utah has an elevation range of more than 3,350 meters. You can enjoy Utah to the fullest with an additional water bottle, sunscreen, and a hat to provide shade. Additionally, it’s critical to maintain hydration and prevent altitude sickness.

5. Get the Digital Travel Guide

Order and download free travel guides to carefully explore Utah’s red rock, picturesque byways, ski slopes, distinctive history, metropolitan culture, and much more. If you want to learn more about Utah, start with the official Utah Travel Guide, which details the five national parks, ski areas, the metropolitan Wasatch Front, and all the charming towns and roads in between. Also make sure to online safety recommendations when downloading digital content.

6. Spend Some Time Off the Beaten Path

Some of the best travel experiences happen when you lay down your map and just explore a new location. You can discover some wonderful spots when you have no plan and no idea what you’re looking for. Also, remember to bring sturdy walking shoes and make sure you’ve already broken them in. Utah is a big place!

7. Talk to the Locals and Find out Their Favorite Spots

Locals are the most knowledgeable about their own area. Therefore, make an effort to interact with locals whenever you can. Whether it’s a waiter at a restaurant, a bartender, or the person seated next to you at dinner the night before, find out what they recommend. It may make the difference between an OK and an OMG! vacation. Ask them about their favorite hobbies, the best restaurants that only locals know about, the coolest shops, and the locations that the majority of tourists wouldn’t be able to learn about in travel guides. Of course, not everyone will share your taste, but asking locals for recommendations is a terrific way to get started on your own trip research and find some incredible locations.

8. Plan Loosely but Allow for Spontaneity.

When traveling to Utah, it’s wise to plan far enough ahead of time to give your vacation some structure. However, it’s also a good idea to leave some opportunity for improvisation. Maybe you made a reservation for dinner and then a local urges you to see this undiscovered gem of a place, or maybe you had a day trip to one town planned, but a fellow tourist tells you about an amazing excursion they went on in the opposite way. In any event, traveling with a flexible schedule allows for last-minute alterations to give you the best experience on your trip.