Cold temperatures, shorter daylight hours, and unpredictable weather can quickly turn a peaceful trek into a dangerous one.

Follow our essential hiking tips to stay safe this winter.

1 - Check Weather

It may sound silly, but checking the weather for your desired hike location is essential. It is not just your weather app on your phone; you should check the localised weather report for the specific area you are hiking in. The MET office website or via the Mountain Weather Information Service (MWIS) is perfect for this. 

Although weather can be unpredictable, knowing what to expect will help you plan your journey safely. Winter hill hiking can offer harsh, cold conditions, which should not be underestimated. Generally, the temperature increases by 1 degree for every 100 meters ascended. 

2 - Be Prepared

Preparation is key to staying safe when hiking in winter. Better planning and preparation can avoid most emergencies. Whether hiking with a group or alone, it's essential to pack the right equipment, clothing, and food to keep you safe. Not only do you need to pack the essentials, but knowing how to use them is also a given if a problem occurs. 

When planning your route, ensure you have a backup and an escape plan. Routes often get destroyed in storms during the winter months, and with heavy rain or even snow, they aren’t always as accessible as in the summer. Make sure you have a backup plan for when problems arise so you can still enjoy your hike.

3 - In an Emergency

It's important to know who to call in case an emergency arises. Dial 999 and ask for the Police and then Mountain Rescue. You will need to clearly state your route so the Mountain Rescue Team can quickly and safely reach you. 

Always pack a fully stocked First Aid kit for emergencies. It’s essential to know the warning signs for Hypothermia and Frostbite, which are more likely to occur when hiking in winter. Thermal blankets, emergency ponchos, and survival bags are also great to carry when hiking to keep you or a companion safe.

4 - Layer up

Wearing multiple layers of clothing in moisture-wicking fabrics will help your body breathe and keep you warm. Appropriate layers are essential for hiking in winter, as you want to avoid sweating and stay as dry as possible. 

You should also cover your exposed skin as much as possible. The hands, face, and neck are the first areas to get cold and can cause frostbite. Pack gloves, hats, and neck warmers. Sunglasses are also handy in icy and windy conditions—they protect your eyes and face against windburn.

5 - Stay Hydrated and Fuelled

Before heading on your winter hiking adventure, ensure you have had an adequate breakfast. Eating healthy, carb, and protein-filled foods will keep you fuller for longer. Overnight oats, eggs, fruit, and nuts are good choices. 

We also recommend packing plenty of snacks. When hiking in winter, moving is what keeps you warm, so ensure you have plenty of easy-to-reach snacks. If you take a break, consider that the more you stand still, the colder your body will be. Energy bars, protein snacks, and fruits are easy to eat on the move and will keep you fuelled until lunch or the end of the hike.  

It is critical to stay hydrated when hiking in winter. Ensure your water bottle is within easy reach and insulated to prevent it from freezing in cold temperatures. You can also pack water purifying tablets to use when your water runs out and needs to be filled up in a stream or with ice. This is a safe way to ensure the water you drink is OK.

Important Links

Weather and climate change - Met Office

Forecasts

Home - Mountain Rescue England and Wales

A final note from us

This completes our guide on five tips for staying safe when hiking in winter. We hope you have found some of this information valuable. If you embark on a winter hike, be prepared and stay safe.

The Camp Life Blog offers the latest camping, caravanning, and hiking tips. To stay updated with Attwoolls Outdoors, you can also follow our social channels.

Header image from UnSplash from Elijah Hail