Winter is a special time that can delight with the beauty of snowy landscapes, frosty air and silence interrupted only by the sound of footsteps in the snow. However, in order to fully enjoy winter hiking, you need to be properly prepared. This does not only apply to trips to the mountains or mountain trails, but also to several-hour walks or hikes in the countryside when it is freezing and snowing outside.
![winter hiking]()
- How to prepare for a winter hike?
- How to dress and what extra clothing items should you pack in your rucksack?
- What to take with you to drink and eat?
- What accessories might come in handy?
- How to care for your face and hands?
- What else should you remember the day before the hike?
- Exercise caution – what to look out for?
- Summary
Winter conditions can be a risky challenge if we do not take care to properly protect our bodies and equip ourselves with the right gear. In this article, we will advise you on how to prepare for a safe, comfortable and enjoyable hike.
How to prepare for a winter hike?
Preparations for a winter hike begin well before the trip itself. It is essential to check the weather conditions for the day and plan your route accordingly. You should also take care of your physical condition, especially if you are planning a longer walk or hike in difficult terrain. It is also good to be aware of your capabilities and not to overexert yourself, especially in sub-zero temperatures, where it is easy to become exhausted or suffer from frostbite. Preparations also include the right equipment, clothing and supplements to keep you comfortable and safe even on the coldest days.
How to dress and what extra clothing items should you pack in your rucksack?
The basic rule for dressing for a winter hike is to wear layers. Wearing several layers of clothing allows you to regulate your temperature and remove excess heat when necessary. The first layer should be thermal underwear, which wicks moisture away from the body and prevents hypothermia. The second layer is insulation – e.g. a merino wool or fleece jumper, which retains heat. On top, it is worth wearing a jacket or winter coat, preferably with a membrane that protects against wind and snow.
It is also a good idea to have additional items of clothing in your rucksack, such as:
- a hat or ear band – to protect your head from heat loss,
- gloves – preferably layered, made of insulating material,
- a buff or neck warmer to protect your neck and face,
- an extra pair of socks in case your primary pair gets wet,
- thin thermal clothing to wear under your layers if it gets very cold.
It is also essential that clothing is made of breathable materials that wick away moisture and provide protection from wind and moisture. It is worth remembering that winter conditions can change, so it is better to have something extra that will allow us to quickly adapt to changing weather.
"Whether you are a professional athlete, a recreational sports enthusiast, or a hiking enthusiast, isotonic drinks can significantly improve your performance and well-being." Łukasz Domeracki - Dietician
What to take with you to drink and eat?
During winter hikes, it is crucial to stay properly hydrated. On cold days, we often do not feel thirsty as strongly as in summer, which can lead to dehydration. That is why it is always a good idea to carry a thermos with a warm drink – tea, herbal infusion or hot chocolate. It is also a good idea to have water, preferably in an insulated bottle, so that it does not freeze during the hike. As for food, it is worth preparing light, energy-rich snacks that will provide quick energy and prevent you from feeling hungry during the hike. {{bessellery=1036;title="Best sellers in the category: healthy snacks"}}
The following will be perfect:
It is important that meals are rich in carbohydrates and fats, which will provide a long-lasting source of energy even in very low temperatures. Remember to replenish fluids regularly, which is especially important in cold weather when the body loses water mainly through breathing and perspiration.
What accessories might come in handy?
![]()
During winter trips, certain accessories are essential to increase our safety and comfort. The most important ones include:
- head torch – invaluable when moving around after dark, in tunnels or during unexpected weather changes. It is worth choosing a model with good light quality and a long operating time on a single charge.
- power bank – for charging phones or other electronic devices, allowing you to use navigation or communication when needed.
- crampons – especially useful on slippery and icy terrain, they improve stability and safety when walking.
- Offline map or GPS – in case the mobile network is weak or completely unavailable, it is worth having a route plan or offline map saved on your device.
- Thermos with a hot drink, tissues (dry and wet) – ensure comfort and hygiene during longer trips.
- First aid kit – with a basic set for minor injuries, plasters, painkillers and frostbite remedies.
It is also worth considering a comfortable rucksack that can hold all the necessary accessories and spare clothing without being too heavy.
How to care for your face and hands?
In cold weather, the skin on your face and hands is particularly prone to dryness, cracking and frostbite. Therefore, it is advisable to apply appropriate protective products before going outside. It is best to apply creams with UV filters and ingredients that protect against dryness, such as vitamin E, shea butter or vegetable oils, to your face. It is important that the cream is oily, but at the same time light and easily absorbed, creating a protective barrier.
Hands should be protected with a thicker cream or special protective balm, and if you plan to be exposed to cold air for a long time, you can also wear a second pair of thin gloves made of breathable material over thicker gloves. During the hike, it is a good idea to lubricate your hands regularly, especially if you feel them drying out or cracking. It is also a good idea to have a small tube of cream handy, which can be easily applied while walking.
What else should you remember the day before the hike?
It is definitely worth checking your list to make sure you have all the necessary accessories. Do not forget to eat a hearty dinner, rich in carbohydrates and vitamins, and get enough sleep to be ‘sure’ that the hike will go smoothly. Of course, there are never any guarantees, so you should also have a contingency plan, e.g. points along the route where you can turn back, or a railway/bus station nearby — remember that there is nothing wrong with not completing the planned route. If your strength or weather conditions do not allow it, turn back.
It is also worth making sure that all electronic devices, such as your phone or torch, are fully charged. This will help you avoid unpleasant surprises and allow you to focus on enjoying your trip.
Exercise caution – what to look out for?
In winter conditions, it is most important to exercise caution on slippery, icy surfaces. Avoid sudden movements, running and strenuous efforts to overcome difficult sections, which can lead to falls and injuries. It is also worth being alert to signs of fatigue, frostbite or feeling cold, which may indicate the need to interrupt the trip or change plans. Weather conditions should not be underestimated – if the forecast predicts a deterioration in the weather, it is better to postpone the hike to another, more favourable day.
"The choice of the right bar should be tailored to the purpose, type of activity and time of consumption. If muscle regeneration and increased protein supply are the priority, a protein bar will be the best choice. However, if the goal is to provide quick energy, it is worth reaching for an energy bar." Łukasz Domeracki – Dietician
Summary
A winter hike can be an unforgettable experience if you prepare for it properly. The key is to wear the right layered clothing, stay hydrated and well-nourished, and have the necessary accessories to increase your safety. Don't forget to take care of your skin, especially your face and hands, and get plenty of rest before your trip.
Remember that winter conditions require us to be more cautious and prudent, but for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, they are a source of incredible experiences and contact with winter nature. With proper preparation, every trip in cold weather can be a beautiful, rewarding experience that provides not only exercise, but also peace and joy from communing with nature, even on the coldest days.
Sources:
- https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/hiking-in-winter-how-to-stay-safe
- https://redlineguiding.com/2020/11/how-hikers-stay-warm/
The content provided is for educational and informational purposes only. We carefully ensure its substantive correctness. However, it is not intended to replace individual advice from a specialist, tailored to the reader's specific situation.