“If Safety is a joke,

Then Death is a punchline.”

Aron Lee Ralston, first person to climb “Colorado’s fourteeners” (59 peaks over 14,000 feet) solo, had a near death experience when his right arm got stuck against a boulder in Blue John Canyon. Unaware of his hiking expedition, all his loved ones had no clue where he has gone. After surviving 5 days and 7 hours, he finally had to cut his right arm in order to come out of the Canyon.

Ring any bells? Yes, you are right. The Oscar winning movie 127 Hours is based on this brave soul who did not give up and tried everything in order to survive. But there are certain lessons we need to learn from him. His foremost mistake was no cell phone with him leave alone emergency contacts. His second mistake was no one knew where he was.

My beloved travellers out there, this accident did not stop him from exploring the world so don’t think for a second I am trying to demotivate you But safety comes first because there are so many mountains to climb so one mountain no matter how great it is, is not worth dying for. So a quick Do’s and Don’ts for you while going on a Trek solo

First Aid Essentials For Trekking, Because Adventure May Hurt You But Monotony Will Kill You

Do’s

Study Your Location

Every location is unique and so are the rules while trekking on it. Study the location you are planning to go. Carry a map with you all the time so that you know exactly where you are so that you can find your way back. Study the habitations in that area and how far it would from your place of camping.

Medical Kit

Please don’t tell me you have “Nothing ever happens to me.” attitude. Because if you have, you are in a world of illusion. Always remember this “Safety Doesn’t happen by Accident.” You are the one responsible for your safety and only you can make it happen. Stuff your bag with all the necessary medicines and medical tools. We would have an entire blog on this soon.

Emergency Contacts

I know! I know! You do not want to call anybody. You want to be with yourself. But keeping the emergency contacts with you won’t increase the burden on your shoulder. Remember “Prevention is better than cure.” This is just a precautionary step. We genuinely do not want to see you in any trouble at all

Please Inform

“Leaving a simple note on your fridge.” Does that sound too taxing? I don’t think so. If something unfortunate happens, your loved one’s will find you. Ahhh! such a relaxing thought. Unless you are going on a suicide mission, I don’t see any harm in doing this.

Plenty Of Essentials

Carry at least 3 litres of water and plenty of nutrition bars. They are light and filling till the time you find any other source. Carry plenty of water and also Water Purification Tablets as Water is what would keep you going especially in a longer trek.

Don’ts

Don’t Severe Connections

You want to find solace in the lovely and beautiful mountains totally cut off from the world. So you can always switch off your cell phone Right? In case you get caught somewhere, you would be able to make a connection with the world. As no matter what, there are people out there longing for your good health every second of their life so do not disappoint them.

Don’t Leave Without Checking Twice

Your gear is the only friend, philosopher and guide during your trek. So prepare a list and do not leave your home before checking twice that you have all the essentials that you would be needing in your trek. Trust me, Won’t take more than 5 minutes.

Don’t Hike Alone

Trekking alone is amazing but trekking with a partner is even better. It’s safe and fun. Yayyyy. Try to go with the group especially on trail you have never explored.

Don’t Ignore The Weather

You can’t afford to do that. In my recent blog on Camping tips I mentioned an incident of Himachal Pradesh where two trekkers died when the tree fell on them due to storm and rain. Read the weather forecasts of the place on your stay dates. This would help you prepare in advance for any change of weather.

Don’t Camp On A Risky Place

Before setting your camp, study the surroundings. Do not camp on  a risky place. You can read a full blog on this Things To Keep In Mind Before Setting A Camp.

“It’s good to be lost in the Right Direction.” Don’t be afraid to get lost but make sure you find your way back to the world that is full of your loved ones. Explore the world. Fly like a bird but keep your feet on the ground. After all a bird also comes back to its nest someday <3

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