Stop the world for a moment, leave everything behind. Discover a new country or a new region with all your senses. This is possible not only with a long journey that takes you around the globe, but also with a short vacation.

Microadventures really have it all. We can’t get enough of them. In the morning you drag yourself to the office or university with little motivation. In the evening, you pitch your tent in the mountains, in the forest or on the beach and make yourself comfortable in front of the campfire. As an adventurer, you surely dream of this several times a day in your everyday life. Now you can learn about the advantages of such a short vacation. But also how you can best plan your next spontaneous weekend trip. Also, which destinations are particularly worthwhile for your next short vacation.

A short vacation is always a good idea

The best ideas for your next short vacation

A short vacation is so cool because it’s almost always possible. You don’t have to plan for months. Inform yourself in travel portals about all possible details or spend a lot of money. On the contrary, a short vacation is almost always possible and guaranteed to be a good idea at any time of the year!

Your next short vacation: The advantages

A short vacation has some decisive advantages. At the top of the list, however, is the fact that you only need a short amount of time for it. If you’re smart about it, with the help of bridge days and holidays, you’ll only have to sacrifice one or two vacation days to experience almost a full week of adventure. Even if you’ve already completely planned your annual vacation, the two-day weekend is totally enough to throw you into one awesome micro-adventure after another.

Plus, a short vacation is super easy to plan.

Depending on where you want to go for your short vacation, you can even leave on the spur of the moment. Sometimes after a stressful week, there’s nothing better than throwing your sleeping bag and tent in your backpack, getting in the car and heading to the nearest wild camping spot. A city trip or an adventure, such as an overnight stay in an igloo village or a canyoning tour, can also be booked and carried out relatively spontaneously. Especially practical: Often you even save a lot of money with these last-minute bookings!

What Line and I especially love about a short vacation is the quick recovery. Just two or three days are enough to sweeten the waiting time until your next big trip. In addition, such a short vacation gives you the opportunity to completely switch off for a short time. You will return to your everyday life full of motivation, new impressions and experiences.

Your next short vacation: Tips for planning

You don’t have to invest several weeks in planning a short vacation. However, there are still some things you should keep in mind during the preparations. Simply, so that your next short vacation will be a complete success.

In the first place is your time planning. Get an overview of all holidays at the beginning of the year. Then apply for vacation for favorably falling bridge days. This way, you’ll always have several days and extended weekends in between during the year, which you can use perfectly for a small or even somewhat larger micro-break.

You can make the most of your time.

Even a short vacation needs good planningSince

your time on a short vacation is of course limited, it is worth planning your journey well. Then you don’t have to spend unnecessary time sitting in the car, at the train station or at the airport. If your travel arrangements are made in advance, you will ensure that you have enough time to fill with adventures.

Even if a short vacation is about leaving relatively spontaneously, don’t book the first deal that comes your way. On the contrary:

Compare prices makes a lot of sense even for a short vacation!

With many hotels and tour providers, it pays to ask for last-minute prices. Often such offers are not available online, but either by phone or in person on site. It almost always pays to ask here!

The best destinations for an adventurous short vacationYour

next short vacation: adventurous accommodationsShort vacation

in the

Havel River in BrandenburgIf

you

only have a few days for an adventure, it’s not always about going to a particularly exciting or exotic area. Sometimes the accommodations themselves are the biggest adventure. At Pension Havelfloß*

, that’s definitely the case.

Not only can you stay here in cozy rooms with a view of the Havel. But even directly on the Havel in one of the ingenious house rafts. In the small floating cabins you have space together with up to four friends.

You will also find everything you need for a few days of relaxation. Best of all, you can move freely on the Havel during your trip. So, drop anchor wherever you like. There you can either chill for a few hours or spend a whole night in total silence on the river. A short vacation on a raft is perfect to leave your everyday life far behind for a while. You can completely immerse yourself in the impressive nature of Brandenburg!

Especially

if you are at home

in

the

southern half of Germany, the Alps are the perfect destination for your next spontaneous short vacation at any time of the year. After all, you are in the middle of the high mountains within a few hours on the highway!

If you don’t want to miss out on adventure in the mountains at night, an overnight stay in the igloo village on the Zugspitze

is just the thing for you. The small igloo village is located at an altitude of 2,600 meters directly on the Zugspitze glacier. It provides from the first minute for adventure tingling without end!

The icy huts are built from scratch every year under a different motto.

So they never look the same in any season. You have the choice between simple group igloos or even a two-bed igloo with its own toilet. If you’re traveling with your girlfriend or boyfriend, the Love Nest is awesome. Under expert guidance, you build your own igloo here. In addition to the sleeping igloos, there is also a bar that doubles as a bistro. Of course, a lot of snow adventures are part of the igloo village.

Short vacation in the Wolfcenter in Dörverden in Lower Saxony©wolfcenter

.deIn the middle of

Lower Saxony, a brilliant short vacation adventure awaits

you.

An adventure that will

deserves a permanent place on your short trip list. An overnight stay in a wolf enclosure. The Wolf Center in Dörverden, however, is anything but a game park or a zoo where the wolves are put on display in small enclosures.

There are even two wolf packs

The center’s expansive game enclosure is home to two wolf packs. One of them was raised entirely by hand and is accustomed to humans. The other, however, is totally wild and roams the forest. In the summer, several guided tours are offered daily through and around the enclosure. During these, you can observe the wild wolves from a distance and the hand-tamed wolves even up close. Pure fascination!

Of course, a tour of several hours does not make a short vacation. That’s why it’s best to rent one of the Tree Inn’s ingenious tree houses directly above the wolf enclosure. The super cozy accommodation offers enough space for four people. The absolute highlight, however, is the glass front, through which you have the best view of the wolves around the clock. Especially at night, this will be an unforgettable experience!

Your next short vacation: City trips

Gothenburg, Sweden

Although Gothenburg is the second largest city in Sweden, you might not have thought of it until now. You are like many others. However, the perfect mix of nature, adventure and urban flair awaits you here for your short vacation.

On your walk through the old streets you should not miss a stop at the market hall Stora Saluhallen. Here you can taste all the specialties of the region. Afterwards you can take a boat through the many canals of the city or go to the park to chill out. The Trädgardsföreningen Park is especially cool. Here you can either hang out in a deck chair or visit the impressive 19th century Palm House.

Schlottskogen Park

If you’re in the mood for more wilderness in the park, head to Slottskogen Park. This is considered the green lung of the city. In the huge area you can pick blueberries, walk through the forest and play beach volleyball. In addition, with a little luck, you can even see moose.

For even more nature you have to go back to the water, this time to the sea. By boat or kayak, you will go through the impressive archipelago of the Swedish city. This is considered one of the most beautiful archipelagos in the world. As soon as you paddle around among the small islands, you’ll quickly realize why!

Short break in Ljubljana, Slovenia

Want to discover a new city on your next short vacation, but don’t want to miss out on thrills in untouched nature? Then Ljubljana is the perfect city break destination for you.

In Europe, Slovenia is one of the most adventurous countries around. From high alpine mountains to pristine forests, it has it all. Moreover, Slovenia even offers a Mediterranean coastline for your short vacation. In short, everything that will make your adventure heart beat faster. Via Austria you can reach the capital Ljubljana in a few hours. If you start in northern Germany and don’t feel like spending time in the car or train, momondo.com will help you find the right place for you. and simply cheap flights. The city itself will captivate you with its hip atmosphere right from the start. Where else can you do your city stroll on a SUP board instead of on foot?

Ljubljana is perfect as a starting point for your short vacation.

It’s relatively central, making it the perfect base for touring the fascinating Slovenian countryside. A trip to the adventure hub of the country, the Soca Valley, should be high on your list. A canyoning tour through the gorge is particularly ingenious. During which you climb, slide, jump and even abseil from several hundred meters along the pale blue river!

An absolute highlight, however, are the bear safaris in the dense forests of the Notranjska region. Together with a local guide you make your way to different hides. From there, you will most likely have the chance to observe wild bears and, of course, take pictures of them – goosebumps are pre-programmed for your short vacation!

Reading Tip:

You can read about the adventures we had on our road trip through Slovenia in our detailed post!

San Sebastian, Spain

Especially at the end of summer and in autumn, a short vacation in San Sebastian is highly recommended. While you’re already getting your winter sweaters out of the basement in Germany, you can throw your bathing suit into your backpack for your trip to the north coast of Spain. After all, you can still expect average temperatures of up to 22 degrees in October. Don’t forget to bring your surfboard, as the waves off the coast of the city are guaranteed to get your adrenaline pumping. The city itself is full of trendy design hotels and small tapas bars, where you can’t get enough of Spanish specialties.

San Sebastion is ideal for your short vacation

Not in the mood for thrills, just want to relax and soak up some sun before the first snow? Then the small Spanish town is the ideal place for a short vacation like a long weekend. The coast outside San Sebastian is lined with endless small and partly deserted bays and beaches. At these you can lie down in the sand and let your soul dangle.

For your short vacation in the Spanish Basque Country, it is best to book a flight. From some German airports there are direct connections to Bilbao. From there, you can drive to San Sebastian by rental car in just over an hour. Compared to the 14-hour drive from Germany in your own car, you’ll save valuable adventure time!

Reading tip: You can read our detailed article about the road trip through the north of Spain here!

Your next short vacation: pure nature & working out

To the short vacation wild camping in trekking camps in the Black Forest

Wild camping is probably one of the last great adventures here in Europe. Surely you have also dreamed of it. Just to go out with nothing but your backpack and your tent to experience nature with all your senses. Where you like it best, you pitch your tent in the evening. Then let a T

ag full of adventures around the campfire…

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The salty sea air on a trip along the Wild Atlantic Way on the west coast of Ireland fills your lungs with pure adventure! There’s not much room on the small boat, but just like you, everyone has their eyes on the horizon. The feeling when suddenly a humpback whale emerges from the water just a few meters away in front of you is absolutely amazing!

Whether your next adventure is on your doorstep in Germany or you are exploring one of our neighboring countries, a trip into nature becomes a real goosebump experience by experiencing and observing wild animals – and Europe has a lot to offer when it comes to adventures with wild animals!

It goes without saying that the wild animals will not come to any harm and will only be observed by you undisturbed in their natural habitat. Whether you go on a bear safari in Slovenia, observe polar bears in Norway or hike in the Swiss mountains on the tracks of ibexes, it does not matter, to get to see these sometimes rare wild animals is unforgettable!

Find out which animal adventures are waiting for you in Europe in the next lines!

The 9 coolest adventures with wild animals in Europe!

Wildlife Europe 1: Bear Safari in Slovenia

Although more and more adventure junkies are drawn to Slovenia, the small country between Austria and Croatia is often underestimated – and wrongly so! You can reach Slovenia quickly and easily by direct flight or by car, the nature is awesome and especially in the Soča Valley an adrenaline kick is waiting for you at every corner!

In the dense forests of the Notranjska region in the south of the country you will find an absolute highlight: a bear safari! Your guide Miha has been roaming the surrounding forests for years and knows exactly where you have the best chance to meet the Slovenian bears. Together with him you will make your way to the so-called hides, from where you can observe and photograph the bears from a safe distance. Along the way you will get some fascinating information about tracking and the life of bears in the forests of Slovenia. Getting so close to a brown bear is a moment you will remember for a long time!

Reading tip: If you’re traveling longer in Slovenia, check out this road trip post for lots of info!

Wildlife Europe 2: Experience wolves in Germany

However, you don’t have to go abroad for an awesome wildlife experience: in Germany, there are several places where you can get up close and personal with local wild animals.

One of them is definitely the Wolf Center in Dörverden in Lower Saxony! Here, two wolf packs live in a huge game enclosure. One of the packs was hand-raised, which means the wolves are used to humans and don’t mind your presence. The second pack roams completely wild through their territory and rarely shows itself to visitors to the center.

During a guided tour, you’ll not only learn some cool facts about these fascinating four-legged creatures, but you’ll also have the chance to observe the wolves up close and personal! For even more adventure, you can spend the night in one of the Tree Inn’s tree houses in the middle of the enclosure. Here you have enough space, to watch the wolves all night long with three other adventurers – the hammer!

Wildlife Europe 3: Whale Watching in Ireland

Do you have a road trip in Ireland coming up soon? The Wild Atlantic Way on the west coast of the island is the longest designated coastal road in the world and perfect for a brilliant adventure by car. However, in some places it’s worth swapping your car for a boat. After all, in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Ireland you have good chances to observe whales and dolphins at close range almost all year round!

Especially in the southwest, the fascinating marine mammals often cavort in the tides. Thanks to years of experience, the team of Whale Watch West Cork knows exactly where the most whales and dolphins are at which time of the year. The boats depart twice daily from Baltimore, in the southwest of the island. Since space on the boat is limited, it’s best to book your tour in advance.

Even if boat tours in a group are usually not your thing, here it’s worth it! As soon as the huge tail of a humpback whale appears just a few meters away and you watch a group of dolphins splashing around, you won’t notice the other people around you anyway!

Wildlife Europe 4: Polar bear watching in Norway

It’s no longer a secret that Norway has a lot going for it when it comes to scenery and nature. Whether your trip takes you to the untouched forests in the interior or to the fascinating fjord landscape at the coast – Norway means pure adventure! However, there is one place in Norway that is guaranteed to leave you speechless: Spitsbergen!

The archipelago of islands lies between the Norwegian mainland and the North Pole and is known as the northernmost inhabited point in Europe. The ground is frozen all year round, the sun never sets in summer and never rises in winter. However, Spitsbergen is not only an unreal world in terms of climate, the nature is also awesome! The loneliness of the seemingly endless ice desert is home to about 3,000 polar bears. In comparison, only about 2,500 people live on the entire island!

The best chance to observe polar bears safely and yet up close is from the water. Hurtigruten offers various expedition trips throughout the year, which take you to the most fascinating places in Spitsbergen. Besides polar bears, you have a great chance to see walruses, reindeer herds and arctic foxes – a trip you will never forget!

Wildlife Europe 5: Wadden Sea Hike to Seals on Borkum, Germany

The North Sea coast is probably one of the coolest adventure playgrounds in Germany. In addition to beautiful hikes, really rad bike trails, and kite surfing thrills, you can get up close and personal with a huge seal colony here!

A mudflat hike definitely belongs on your list the next time you head to the North Sea. If you don’t feel like walking, get on a horse and ride through the surreal landscape created by the tides. It’s best to get an expert guide at your side, who not only has fascinating facts in store, but is also familiar with the tides, sodThe tide will not be your undoing.

On your way through the mudflats you will pass one of the largest seal colonies in the country. The sight of about 250 seals and grey seals chilling in the sun on the sandbanks is awesome! If you are traveling between July and September, you might even get to see baby seals – super cute and also something very special to see the mother animals with their young live in the wild!

Wildlife Europe 6: Ibex Safari in Graubünden, Switzerland

When it comes to adventures in Europe, the Swiss Alps are high on the list. Whether your adventurer heart craves a brilliant hike, a gnarly via ferrata, or an adrenaline-pumping ski slope, Switzerland never disappoints!

The same goes for animal adventures! In the canton of Graubünden, a special highlight awaits you: an ibex safari! To meet an ibex just like that in the wild is a stroke of luck. After all, the animals only really feel at home when they are climbing around in the highest and loneliest areas of the Alps. The Beverin Nature Park in Graubünden, however, is home to an ibex colony that includes around 350 wild animals!

Either make your own way through the nature park in search of the bucks, or join Magnasch Michael’s group. The local hunter knows the area and knows where you have the best chance to see the fascinating wild animals climbing and jumping! Whether you are alone or with others, the moment you see your first ibex is pure goosebumps!

Wildlife Europe 7: Diving with Manta Rays in the Underwater National Park, Madeira

The small island of Madeira is one of the most brilliant adventure destinations in Europe. The reason for this is not only the supervillain gorges, where you can get one adrenaline kick after the other while canyoning, or the awesome waves off the coast, which provide a lot of thrills while surfing, but also the underwater world, which gives you goose bumps while diving!

Off the southeast coast of the island, the Garajau Underwater National Park offers you one of the most brilliant diving areas in Europe. The underwater landscape has been protected for more than 30 years, which means the biodiversity is absolutely awesome! Besides barracudas, puffer and trumpet fish as well as stingrays, Garajau is especially known for the many manta ra ys that cavort here.

Between July and October the chances are good to meet these fascinating animals on your dive. To get so close to so many different fish and underwater creatures is a feeling that can hardly be described. The only thing to do here is: book and feel for yourself!

Wildlife Europe 8: Moose watching in Sweden

Sweden is always worth a trip! Whether it’s a short trip or an extensive road trip, the rugged landscape always inspires! What’s especially cool about Sweden is that you’re allowed to camp wild here thanks to Everyman’s Right. This means: pure adventure and especially wilderness! On a trip through the Scandinavian country you are guaranteed to meet one or the other wild animal. In addition to lynxes, wild boars, wolves or even bears, the heraldic animal of the Swedes is of courselich the moose.

Most of the time you don’t have to search long for these fascinating giants, which can have a shoulder height of up to two meters. If you are traveling by car, it is worth slowing down on lonely forest roads. Especially in the evening hours at least one moose will cross your path – or stand in the middle of the road and not move a bit!

Since moose are mostly solitary animals, you don’t have to be afraid that the road will be overrun by a herd of moose. If you don’t have time to go in search of the king of the woods yourself, a moose excursion is a great alternative! One thing is certain: You will hardly get past moose in Sweden – luckily, because facing such a huge animal is insane!

Wildlife Europe 9: Alpine Marmots on the Grossglockner, Austria

Austria is the perfect destination for your next microadventure any time of year. Depending on where in Germany you start, you can be in the Austrian mountains by car, bus or train within a few hours and have plenty of opportunity to quench your adrenaline addiction while hiking, climbing or canyoning.

On the Großglockner, in addition to the amazing via ferratas, brilliant hiking trails and magnificent views, there is also an animal highlight waiting for you. Austria’s highest mountain is home to several marmot colonies. You can even hear that here, because the shrill whistling sounds of the rodents make the peaks on the Großglockner sing! The cute little mountain dwellers are wild animals, but already accustomed to the presence of humans. This means that on your hike beyond the tree line, you’re guaranteed to catch sight of a few of these gray-brown furry critters! As with all wild animals, the same applies here: Do not touch and please do not feed!

Unforgettable: Adventures with wild animals in Europe!

If you’ve ever been lucky enough to see wild animals in their natural habitat during yourtravels

, then you know what an unforgettable feeling it is! Exploring a new country, area or landscape is always great, but when you come across wild and sometimes rare animals, your trip becomes a real highlight!

You don’t have to fly all the way to Africa or South America, you just have to get in your car or take the train and hike to the seals at the North Sea or go on an ibex safari in the Swiss mountains. After a short flight, you’ll experience one goosebump after another while whale watching in Ireland or come face to face with a two-meter moose in Sweden!

Fact is: Fascinating wild animals also live in Europe and no matter if you watch huge marine mammals or listen to the whistling concert of marmots – an adventure that will take you to wild

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Connemara in the west of Ireland is one of the most authentic regions of the country. 10 Connemara tips from photographer Carsten Krieger, who has found his adopted home in Ireland.

Photocredit cover photo: Carsten Krieger

For many Ireland fans, Connemara is the epitome of Ireland: lonely moorland dotted with lakes; green fields edged with rustic stone walls; dramatic mountains and white sandy beaches. Topping it all off is the incomparable Irish weather: low-hanging clouds caught in the mountains while the sun shines just a few miles away on the coast; icy winds bringing heavy downpours from the Atlantic or, known in Ireland as a “soft day,” a persistent, almost misty and barely perceptible drizzle that soaks you to the skin in the nuh.

Connemara is unique, unlike any other landscape Ireland has to offer, and here you can literally feel the loneliness of the west coast.

Connemara | Travel time, arrival & accommodation

Connemara is a cultural region in the west of County Galway, which covers about 2,000 square kilometers and got its name from the Comacne tribe who once settled here. The Conmacne populated the entire west of Ireland in the early Middle Ages and the clan of the Conmacne Mara (Connemara) – translated: “Conmacne of the sea” – called the area of today’s Connemara their own.

The eastern border of Connemara runs roughly from Spiddal, a small town west of Galway City, to Oughterard and from here follows the shores of Lough Corrrib, Ireland’s second largest lake, and Lough Nafooey to the village of Leenaun. To the west, the Atlantic Ocean forms a natural border.

Connemara is worth a visit all year round. The best chance for reasonably dry weather is in spring and autumn, but then you miss some of the natural spectacles, such as the wildflowers of the moors and Machair. Winter is also recommended. The low sun makes the warm brown tones of the moorland glow, you have Connemara almost to yourself and with a bit of luck there is even some snow in the mountains. Because of the increased precipitation in winter, however, you run the risk of having a rainy vacation.

If you like a little more action, you can also come to Connemara in summer, when not only visitors from abroad come to spend their vacations in Connemara, but also the Irish themselves. The weather in July and August is a matter of luck, usually especially August is mainly cloudy and rainy and a foretaste of the approaching winter.

The fastest way to Connemara is from the airports in Dublin and Shannon by rental car in the direction of Galway. Although it is possible to get to Connemara by public transport, the sparse bus and train connections make this a complicated and lengthy undertaking.

While between the airports and Galway you can enjoy the luxury of a freeway for the most part, from Galway on you have to get used to the narrow and winding Irish country roads that lead to Connemara. In Connemara itself, it is advisable to rent a bicycle and enjoy the landscape slowly on the many small side roads.roads to explore.

Accommodation in Connemara is a dime a dozen, from inexpensive youth hostels (most offer double and single rooms in addition to the typical dormitories), to traditional bed & breakfasts and star hotels. We still recommend the Bed & Breakfast, which offers a typical Irish breakfast as well as a direct line to the locals, who are happy to share a few insider tips.

The various accommodations are well distributed throughout the region, but the largest selection is in Clifden, the unofficial capital of Connemara.

Clifden

© Carsten Krieger

Clifden is a small town in western Connemara and the center of the region. Here you can find everything you need: In addition to accommodation, there are supermarkets, restaurants and cafes, souvenir stores, pharmacy and of course pubs. Although Clifden is not necessarily a picturesque town, it makes up for it with a bustling – cozy atmosphere that is best enjoyed with a Guinness in the marketplace.

If you want something to eat with your Guinness, be sure to try the local seafood: Mussels and salmon are particularly recommended, and the latter also makes a good souvenir: smoked salmon is produced and sold at the Connemara Smokehouse, right on one of the many small harbors in the area.

West of Clifden is the Sky Road, a narrow coastal road that offers wonderful views over the Atlantic Ocean and is especially famous for its sunsets. Along Sky Road you will also find the ruins of Clifden Castle and some Standing Stones, which are well worth a visit.

Also along Sky Road, right on the Clifden town line, is Monument Hill, a small mountain from the top of which you can enjoy a wonderful view over Clifden and Connemara.

Coral Beaches

© Carsten Krieger

South of Clifden, along Mannin Bay, you find the Coral Strands. The name is a bit misleading though, as the beaches don’t really have anything to do with coral. The Coral Strands consist of the remains of snail animals and calcareous algae, which have been ground smooth by the Atlantic Ocean. They are much coarser-grained, but also softer than sand. It is fascinating to look closely at the often unusually shaped components of these beaches.

Machair

© Carsten Krieger

Not all of Connemara’s beaches are coral beaches, most of them are made of sand. Some of the most beautiful of these sandy beaches are located west of the village of Ballyconneely on a small peninsula. On some days, when the sand shimmers almost white in the sun and the water takes on a turquoise color, Connemara has an almost tropical character, if one disregards the temperatures.

On the land side of these beaches you can find another special feature of Connemara: machair. This particular form of grassland exists only in the northwest of Ireland and the west of Scotland. The term has its origin in the Gaelic language and means something like “fertile plain”.

A basic component of the machair are the materials of the Coral Beaches, which here in pulverized form supply the earth with lime, which in turn produces a special family of plances attracts. Daisies, horned clover, yellow ragwort, white clover and ribwort plantain transform the machair into a sea of flowers every summer. These species are also often joined by pyramidal dogbane and various knapweeds.

Roundstaone and Roundstone Bog

© Carsten Krieger

South of Ballyconneely lies Roundstone, a small but charismatic fishing village at the foot of Errisbeg Mountain. The 300-meter-high mountain represents the only elevation worth mentioning along Connemara’s coast. Behind Errisbeg stretches a lonely moorland covered by countless lakes and ponds. The Roundstone Bog complex is one of the best-preserved Atlantic blanket bogs in Ireland and is particularly well known as the home of several rare species of heath, purple heath and bog heath. A small road known as The Bog Road runs directly through this bogland and was once one of the main routes from Galway to Clifden.

During the day you can enjoy the beauty and tranquility of this special landscape. But as soon as dusk descends over the moorland, the mood changes: the quiet suddenly seems threatening, long shadows seem to move across the barren landscape and the wind brings voices from a distant past. About halfway along the road, one finds an old, bent hawthorn bush.

Long ago, there was also a hostel here, Halfway House, run by a brother and sister. Legend has it that this couple murdered their guests at midnight and disposed of the bodies in the depths of the moor lakes. The souls of the murdered still haunt the area today and hardly any locals voluntarily visit The Bog Road after dark.

Connemara National Park

© Carsten Krieger

In the heart of Connemara lie two mountain ranges, the Maumturk Mountains and the Twelve Bens (Ben is the Irish word for mountain). To the northwest of the Twelve Bens lies Connemara National Park, one of Ireland’s five national parks. Most of the park is in inaccessible terrain and only a small part of the park is open to visitors. The entrance to this part of Connemara National Park is west of the small village of Letterfrack.

From a visitor center that provides information on the natural history of the Twelve Bens and Connemara, a trail winds to the top of 442-meter Diamond Hill, one of the smaller peaks in the range. The path leads through the typical blanket bog landscape and after a sometimes steep but not too strenuous climb, one is rewarded by a wonderful view over the mountains and coast of Connemara.

Inagh Valley

© Carsten Krieger

Between the mountain ranges of the Twelve Bens and the Maumturk Mountains lies the Inagh Valley. The valley is one of the most depressing areas of Connemara. Dramatic, desolate and beautiful in equal mases. In the middle of the valley lies the elongated Lough Inagh and along the road that runs through the valley, connecting southern and northern Connemara, there are numerous park bays from which to explore the valley.

Kylemore Abbey

© Carsten Krieger

Kylemore Abbey is one of Connemara’s main attractions. The former manor house, built in 1868, is theut is now a nunnery and was also a girls’ boarding school from 1923 to 2010. The enterprising Benedictine nuns who took over Kylemore in 1920 have managed to turn their monastery into a world-renowned brand name and one of Connemara’s major employers. Besides the abbey itself, a small chapel and the Walled Garden, one of Ireland’s most beautiful gardens, are worth seeing.

Omey Island

© Carsten Krieger

Omey Island is a small island in northwestern Connemara and lies about 1 kilometer from the mainland. The special thing about Omey Island is that you can reach the island on foot. At low tide, you can easily reach the island from the mainland via a wide sandy beach. Besides a barren but picturesque landscape, the island also offers the ruins and the cemetery of an early Christian monastery. However, it is advisable to keep an eye on the tides. If you miss the low tide, you will be stuck on the island for several hours.

Maumeen Valley

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You’re not really awake yet and you can hear the light waves crashing against the hull of your houseboat – the beat that determines your adventure on the river! After the first coffee in the morning you plunge into the water or start the engine and leisurely drive to where it suits you best. A houseboat tour is basically like a road trip on the water!

Sailing over the surface of the water with your houseboat is a great experience! In addition, neither traffic jams nor other annoying road users await you on the river – on the contrary: the river is yours! Here, only you and your hunger for the next adventure count, which are waiting everywhere on the rivers of Europe!

How you can rent yourself a houseboat, what you should pay attention to and where a trip across the water is particularly worthwhile, you will learn in the next lines.

Adventure houseboat rental: The best tips and ideas for your houseboat tour!

Rent a houseboat: That’s why it’s worth it!

1. pure relaxation and freedom

If you already know our travel blog a little better, you know that we are huge road trip fans: Letting yourself be driven by nothing but your thirst for adventure means pure freedom. However, other drivers, heavy traffic or road works can quickly turn your road adventure into a stress trap. That won’t happen on your houseboat tour!

There is traffic on the river, but only a little and a traffic jam is guaranteed not to happen. As soon as you step on your boat and start the engine, your everyday stress suddenly becomes unimportant! Boating is also a lot more chilled out than driving a car, you’re only traveling at a few kilometers per hour. This means less concentration and more time to admire the surroundings! If you don’t feel like driving anymore, you can drop the anchor, take a short break or continue tomorrow – more freedom is not possible!

2. experience nature!

Being on the water with your houseboat is a bit like wild camping! After all, there are hardly any rules on the water that separate you from nature. On the contrary: You are in the middle of the water, surrounded by shore landscapes, which you can hardly reach from land! Especially in the evening hours, with a little luck, you have the chance to observe wild animals at close range. Depending on where you are, you will meet deer, elk or even wild cats and wolves!

In general, most of the life on the boat takes place outdoors! Although the cabins and spaces below deck are super cozy, there’s nothing better than chilling out up on deck and enjoying the peace and quiet around you. Sleeping is done in a different place every night, always where you like it best! If you’re traveling in the summer, you don’t even have to go below deck to sleep, but snuggle up in a sleeping bag on the sun deck. Far away from big cities and light sources, the starry sky above your houseboatis the absolute hammer!

3. in the middle of the adventure!

With your houseboat you are not only in the middle of nature, but also in the middle of adventure! From the bed into the water in less than 2 minutes, that’s almost impossible anywhere else. The rivers become your personal adventure playground.

At Swimming, SUP boarding, kayaking and even sailing or windsurfing in some places are guaranteed to get your adventure heart pumping! However, there are not only adventures to be had in the water: In many areas, you’ll be able to swap your swimsuit for hiking boots right on the shore to explore the area while hiking or climbing. Or you can head for the next town and dive back into civilization for a while at the next burger joint! Whatever you feel like is allowed and there are hardly any limits in your houseboat!

4. boating is easier than you think

Have you always wanted to rent a houseboat and explore a new area from the water, but thought you would need a boating license? You’re not alone in that! Many people don’t consider boating when planning their trip because they don’t have a license. But the fact is: In most countries boating is allowed on almost all waters without a special license!

Most operators will give you a short briefing when you move into your floating accommodation, and you’ll be chugging across the water yourself. For some waters you need a boat trip of several hours with an experienced boat driver and only in the very few cases you need a driving license. You can find out the exact conditions from your provider before you rent your houseboat!

Rent a houseboat: This is how it works!

The boats

Once you have decided where your houseboat tour will take you, it is best to search online for suitable floating accommodation for your adventure. Boats now come in many different styles and sizes.

There are small, quaint boats that can accommodate just two people. However, if you are traveling with a larger group, you don’t necessarily have to book multiple boats. In the meantime, there are really cool floating vacation homes, in which you can comfortably sail along the rivers with ten or more of your buddies.

Besides real houseboats as you imagine them, there are of course also luxury yachts or rustic rafts that you can rent from various providers for your trip on the water.

No matter what kind of boat you choose, there are usually several levels of equipment. Similar to hotel rooms, there is also a distinction between a simple interior with few frills and a more upscale interior with super comfort. However, since you will definitely not spend your time below deck in good weather, the furnishings are of secondary importance.

Tip: Some boats have a retractable bike, which is super handy for cycling ashore in the morning to get fresh rolls!

The providers

Which provider you choose depends primarily on the area you’re traveling in.

If you’re staying in Germany, you have the choice between the grandiose rafts of Pension Havelfloß, which await you in Brandenburg an der Havel with plenty of coziness. With the bungalow boats of BunBo you can plunge into the river adventure either in Brandenburg, the Mecklenburg Lake District, in Saxony-Anhalt or in the Dutch canals!

In other Europeane countries with Locaboat boats, which are represented in Germany, France, Ireland, Finland and Scotland, among others! The many Locaboat stations are also perfect for a spontaneous micro-adventure on a river near you.

Rent a houseboat: Here’s what you need for your adventure!

Just as you wouldn’t want to be without a sat nav or road map on a road trip in an area you don’t know, a map of the waterways is a must for your houseboat tour! Most rental companies will provide you with the map for a small surcharge – but be sure to check beforehand! Unfortunately, nothing works without a map.

In addition to the usual things that you have with you on your adventures, bathing suits are a must in your backpack. In addition, you should have at least a warm jacket and pants, even in summer, because it is often a few degrees colder on the water than on land – the same applies to rain and sun protection. After all, you need to be able to steer your boat even in constant rain or blistering heat.

It’s best to stock up on food for the first few days and check out where you can stop and shop before your trip. Before you head to the port, you should also find out if things like bedding, towels and kitchen utensils are provided by your provider.

Tip: If you’ll be passing through locks on your route, throw another pair of rubber-grip work or gardening gloves in your backpack to protect your hands.

Houseboat Rentals: The coolest regions for your houseboat tour!

For a micro adventure: Mecklenburgische Seenplatte, Germany

The Mecklenburg Lake District is like the capital of houseboat tours in Germany. Here, in a small area, you have the opportunity to cruise along narrow waterways or drift in the sun on wide lakes. Moreover, thanks to several nature parks, you are almost always surrounded by untouched nature. This also has an effect on the water, not for nothing do some of the cleanest waters in Europe await you here!

If you don’t want to spend the entire duration of your trip on the water, the shore around Müritz & Co. offers many ingenious hiking trails on which you can explore the landscape. You can also get a taste of culture by visiting several castles and palaces, or enjoy a cold bike beer in one of the many beer gardens, some of which are located directly on the shore!

Reading tip: What we have experienced on our houseboat tour in Mecklenburg, you can read in our detailed article!

For romantics: Canal du Midi, South of France

In the south of France, a very special waterway awaits you: The Canal du Midi winds its way between Toulouse and the Mediterranean Sea through the French countryside lined with poplars and plane trees.

The south of France has its own special atmosphere. The mix of history, serenity, and non-cheesy romance infects you as soon as you pull up anchor and start the engine of your houseboat for the first time – nowhere else will you chill as casually as here! An absolute highlight on your trip is the city of Carcassonne, which is

you already recognize from afar by its huge fortress. Here, a shore leave and a walk up the fortress hill are worthwhile, apart from the castle itself, the view is awesome! Besides the typical French settlements, bathing is of course on the list of things to do in the south of France. After all, you’re on your way to the Mediterranean, where one beach follows another!

For island adventures: River Shannon, Ireland

Ireland is always worth a trip, especially by houseboat. With Locaboat you can either explore the fascinating landscape of the north from Athlone, which is guaranteed to amaze you more than once with its rugged river cliffs, the many stone bridges and the seemingly endless green fields!

Things are no less spectacular in the south. Especially cool: Thanks to the Royal Canal, you can even get as far as Dublin with your houseboat. The capital of the Emerald Isle is a real highlight from the water.

Nevertheless, you should swap your boat for the mainland here for an evening and head for the pub, where you will surely fall in love with the legendary pub culture of the Irish. The best part of a houseboat tour of Ireland – besides the unspoiled nature – is the country’s brilliant history, which you’ll experience at every turn thanks to the many ruins, stone circles, and Celtic burial sites, even from the water!

Off The Path: Masurian Lake District, Poland

On the rivers and lakes of the Masurian Lake District in the north of Poland you have the possibility to go totally off the path with your houseboat! The area is huge and consists of over 3,000 lakes, most of which are interconnected.

You can cruise here for four weeks without passing the same place twice!

Outside of the towns, the shorelines are largely wild and untouched, which is perfect for spotting wildlife undisturbed from the water. With a little luck you will not only see beavers, deer and wild boars, but also bison, lynx and even wolves – it’s amazing!

In between, it’s worth dropping your anchor and stopping off in the quaint villages along the waterways. Especially in Lötzen you will have the feeling that you are somewhere at the Mediterranean Sea when you walk along the waterfront and enjoy the view over the water!

Renting a houseboat is always possible!

As an adventurous travel junkie, you know what it’s like: your last trip is not over yet, and you’re already searching the Internet for new inspiration for your next trip! A houseboat tour definitely belongs on your bucket list!

Whether you’re taking a long break and spending several weeks on the water in northern Poland or Ireland, spontaneously heading to the south of France to sail your houseboat all the way to the Mediterranean coast, or spending the weekend exploring the Mecklenburg lake district, renting a houseboat is uncomplicated and…

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Beautiful hiking trails await you all over the world, from 1-day hikes to hut tours to multi-week trekking adventures! But once the route is chosen, the same question often arises: What do I need to pack for my hike?

In this post, we reveal what belongs in your hiking backpack and which hiking backpacks are the best. In addition to our hiking packing list, there are also some practical packing tips – so you can be perfectly prepared for your next hiking adventure!

This is the perfect packing list for your next hiking adventure!

Table of Contents:

Hiking packing list: general packing tips beforehand

Before you get into the packing list for your next hike, we want to give you a few practical hiking packing tips – because even the best hiking packing list won’t help if you pack wrong!

When packing your hiking backpack, it’s important to pack larger and heavier items towards the bottom. This includes your sleeping bag* and sleeping pad*, as well as items you don ‘t need to have handy, such as your gas stove*.

Also, make sure you pack these items against the back of your pack, as close to your back as possible. If you pack heavy items to the front instead, it will cause your pack to pull you back and down. This will cause you to lose your balance and use unnecessary force while hiking.

On the other hand, you should pack light and smaller items upwards. In particular, your rain jacket* should always be within reach, so pack it at the end so that it is at the top of your pack. Your water bottle belongs in the side pocket, so you can always take a sip of water. Your hiking poles* are also attached to the side or outside of your backpack if you are not using them at the time.

To save space in your backpack, you can roll your clothes instead of folding them. Packing cubes, which you can get in different sizes, provide more order in your hiking backpack.

Tip: These packing cubes from Tatonka* are especially good!

Packing list for hiking: This is what you need to pack for a day trip!

A day hike can be leisurely and last a few hours, or it can take you up to a peak and push you to your limits – either way, with our hiking packing list and tips, you’ll be perfectly equipped for your one-day hike!

Here’s what to look for when choosing your hiking backpack

For a day hike, you only need a small hiking backpack. It should be lightweight and made of water-repellent, sturdy materials. Hiking backpacks with a volume between 15 and 30 liters are best suited.

Make sure that the backpack, in addition to a large main compartment, also offers at least one smaller compartment. In addition, it is practical if it also offers compartments on the outside of the sides and attachment options, such as for your hiking poles. In addition, it is a great advantage if you get a hiking backpack with a rain cover.

But the most important thing is that your hiking backpack fits you perfectly and is adjusted to you – you should also pack it full.ckts without pressure and pain. It’s best to invest in a hiking backpack with wide padded hip and shoulder straps, as well as a chest strap: this ensures better weight distribution and relieves the strain on your back, which is especially noticeable when carrying a lot of luggage.

In addition, backpack models that leave your back free are good: so you sweat less on your back and hike much more relaxed!

We can recommend these hiking backpacks for a day tour:

Packing list hiking day trip: This must be in your backpack for a 1-day hike!

What to pack in your backpack for a day hike depends on the exact route and duration of the hike. You need to ask yourself the following questions before packing your hiking backpack for a day hike:

• • • Are you only going for a few hours, or do you plan to hike all day from early morning to late evening?
    • Will you pass huts along the way where you can stop and seek shelter?
    • Are there any drinking water sources along the way?
    • Does the trail lead through easy terrain or is it an alpine hike with via ferrata and glacier crossing?

Take enough drinking water and food with you on your day hike!

The length of your hike and whether there are huts to stop at and sources of drinking water along the way will determine how much food you need to bring for your hike: from one to several liters of drinking water, from a few snacks like fruit, nuts or granola bars, to real meals like REAL Turmat dry meals, for which you will also need a gas stove*.

Think about additional equipment for your hike through alpine terrain

The terrain and the exact route will determine what additional equipment you need to take with you on your hike: in addition to trekking poles, an alpine hike may also require a climbing or glacier set in your hiking backpack.

If there are no shelters on your trail, you should also think about an emergency bivouac* and a first aid kit including a warming blanket, because the most important thing when hiking is your safety!

This is why you should always have enough cash with you

What you should always have in your hiking backpack, regardless of the distance and duration of your hike, are important documents such as your ID card, your health insurance card and, if applicable, your DAV membership card. You should also pack enough cash, because you can’t pay with a debit or credit card at most huts.

You should also take your smartphone* with you when you go hiking, preferably fully charged and equipped with a few practical hiking apps*. They will not only show you the way, but also tell you the current weather conditions and whether rain clouds are coming.

Reading tip: Even more practical hiking tips here!

Packing list hiking day trip:

Packing list hiking: This is what you need to pack for a hut tour!

A hut tour is a great experience: You hike several days from hut to hut and experience not only beautiful sunrises in the mountains, but also unforgettable hut evenings. with strangers who quickly become your friends. You can go on leisurely hut tours or hike to remote huts, but one thing is certain: the beer always tastes better at the hut!

This is what your touring backpack must offer for a hut hike

For a hut hike you need a larger hiking backpack than for day hikes, hiking backpacks with a volume of 30 to 50 liters are perfect. Your touring backpack should meet all the criteria as your normal hiking backpack, but also offer additional compartments such as a bottom and lid compartment.

These touring backpacks can recommend:

Packing list hiking hut tour: this must be in your backpack on a hut hike!

On a hut hike you are on the road for several days and spend the night as well as have breakfast and dinner at a hut. Compared to a day hike, you also need to pack clothes, toiletries and snacks, and a hut sleeping bag* is a must on every hut!

Get yourself some functional clothes and dress according to the onion principle. This way you save on clothing and are optimally prepared for all weather conditions: If you are cold, put on another layer, and if you are too warm, simply take off a layer.

For your time at the hut you should also pack a change of clothes, such as comfortable jogging pants or leggings. You should also pack hut shoes or sandals*, such as Birkenstocks, Adiletten or Crocs. Because you’re not allowed to wear hiking boots in h uts – but your feet will thank you, too!

Packing list hiking hut tour: Documents

• • • Identity card / passport
    • Vaccination card / Health insurance card
    • Driver’s license / International driver’s license
    • DAV membership card / hiking map
    • Cash / EC & credit card

Packing list hiking hut tour: clothes (for 5 days)

Packing list hiking hut tour: Equipment & useful items

Packing List Hiking Hut Tour: Cosmetics & Hygiene

• • • toothbrush & toothpaste
    • biodegradable soap (e.g. Dr. Bronner’s 18-In-1)
    • dry shampoo or baby powder
    • deodorant spray or roller
    • hairbrush & hair elastic
    • Menstrual cup*

Packing List Hiking Hut Tour: Mini First Aid Kit

• • • Band-aids & blister plasters
    • Sunscreen
    • Mosquito repellent
    • Painkillers
    • Remedy against diarrhea
    • wound disinfectant & ointment
    • individual medicines

Packing list hiking: This is what you need to pack for a trekking tour!

A trekking tour is a real hiking adventure: you will hike through remote areas, provide for yourself for the most part and usually spend the night in your tent. Whether for several days or weeks, whether on a long-distance hiking trail, in the mountains or on a pilgrimage, whether on your own or with friends, on a trekking tour you get closer to yourself and are sure to have some exciting stories to tell afterwards!

This is what your hiking backpack must offer for a trekking tour

If you only want to spend a few days

If you are hiking with a tent, a touring backpack of 40 to 50 liters is usually enough for your trekking adventure. If, on the other hand, you are going to be on foot for several weeks, you will need a proper trekking backpack with a volume of 50 to 60 liters.

These trekking backpacks we can recommend

Packing list hiking trekking tour: This must be in your backpack on a trekking tour!

Since you are usually completely self-sufficient on a trekking tour, in addition to your clothes and your usual hiking gear, you also need to take enough food and cooking utensils such as a gas stove, matches, a bowl and a spoon.

In addition to high-energy snacks like granola bars, dried fruit or nuts, you should also pack special dry meals for your trek. These are fortified with extra nutrients and can be prepared with hot water.

In addition, a tent* belongs in your trekking backpack, as well as a sleeping mat* and a sleeping bag*, so that you are warm and comfortable at night! If you don’t come across drinking water sources during your trekking tour, take an additional water filter with you.

In case of emergency, a GPS or SOS device as well as a first aid kit with a warming blanket should also be in your trekking backpack!

Packing list hiking trekking tour: Additional equipment for a hike with tent

Packing list hiking: This is what you need to pack for a via ferrata!

Especially with difficult hiking routes via ferrata are not uncommon. To avoid slipping at dizzying heights or on steep slopes, you should pack a climbing kit in your hiking backpack. A helmet and a climbing harness are also a must for more dangerous spots!

Packing

list hiking via ferrata: Additional equipment for via fer

ratas

• • • Helmet
    • Climbing or seat harness
    • Via ferrata set

Packing list hiking: This is what you need to pack for a glacier crossing!

It may well happen that you have to cross glaciers while hiking in high alpine terrain. For this icy adventure, you will need additional equipment to keep you safe during your glacier crossing. This includes a glacier set, which should consist of at least one to two locking carabiners and two to three normal carabiners per person, as well as two reef cords and a webbing sling.

Packing list hiking glacier tour: Additional equipment for a glacier crossing

.

• • • Helmet
    • Glacier goggles
    • Sunscreen LSF 50+
    • trekking poles* & bivouac sack*
    • Compass & altimeter
    • Crampons with frontal jaws
    • Ice axe & ice screws
    • Glacier set & climbing harness
    • Hat & gloves

Reading tip:

Download a great brochure with tips for a safe glacier crossing here!

With this hiking packing list, your hiking adventure can finally get started!

Whether for one or several days, from hut to hut or with a tent, a hike is always an unforgettable experience and with our packing list you are perfectly equipped for your next hiking adventure!

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Even if you should rather enjoy the views while hiking instead of constantly staring at your smartphone, the small technology miracle is quite practical and should not be missing on your hikes!

Thanks to a wide range of hiking apps, your smartphone can be transformed into a flashlight, a compass and even an altimeter in no time at all, showing you not only the way, but sometimes even the most beautiful routes!

Which hiking apps are useful and absolutely belong on your smartphone, we tell you now!

These hiking apps absolutely belong on your smartphone!

The smartphone for your next hike

Before we take a closer look at the various hiking apps, let’s first deal with the question of which cell phone is particularly suitable for hiking. Did you know that besides ordinary smartphones, there are also real outdoor phones?

Outdoor smartphones are not only more robust and survive a fall or a water bath, but they also offer extra-long battery life and better GPS reception. These features make them a perfect companion for your next hiking adventure, and especially so if you’re spending several days in remote terrain!

We will now introduce you to three real survivors among smartphones.

Outdoor smartphone: Land Rover Explore

The Land Rover Explore is a real outdoor pro! Robust and waterproof, combined with a long battery life. The smartphone withstands extreme weather conditions and survives even heavy falls. Plus, the included ViewRanger hiking app ensures that you’re guaranteed not to lose your route.

Reading tip: We put the Land Rover Explore through its paces on our hike up the Wank. Read the whole article here!

Outdoor smartphone: The Cat® S61

The Cat® S61 is also a good companion on your hikes. The smartphones from Cat Phones were manufactured according to military requirements and thus promise exceptional durability. The thermal camera measures temperatures at a distance of up to 30 meters and between -20 °C and 120 °C. Another special feature is the integrated sensor for ambient air monitoring.

Outdoor smartphone: Trekker-X4

The Trekker-X4 is equipped with a super camera – this can even outperform some action cams! The combination of shock resistance, waterproofing and camera experience makes the smartphone super suitable for hiking through wind and rain. The camera captures all your highlights!

These are the hiking apps you need on your hikes!

Hiking Apps: Navigation in the terrain

In order to plan your hiking route and not lose sight of the path, there are a variety of apps that navigate you along the way. Special hiking apps let you know in real time how long it takes to get to the next hut, what altitude you are currently at, or if there is an alternative route.

Hiking app: komoot
The komoot app suggests tours for you based on your fitness level and the time frame available. For each route displayed, you can call up the respective altitude meters as well as the duration. In addition to hiking and mountain tours, you can use ther app can also plan kinderlicht bike tours.

Download the free app for iOS here and for Android here.

Hiking App: Outdooractive
The app for planning cycling, hiking and climbing tours is a perfect companion on your next adventure on foot! With Outdooractive, you can plan tours and show destinations along the way. Share your routes with other users and add text and pictures to inspire other adventurers to plan their route. With the app you always have your map with you!

Get the free app here for IOS and here for Android.

Hiking App: bergfex
The app from Bergfex covers the whole range of outdoor activities: Biking, skiing, hiking and much more! Authors of the suggested tours are mostly certified users or from the outdoor industry. In addition to the route, altitude difference and distance, the hiking app also gives you information on how to get there and where to park. If you want to plan your tour yourself, however, you have to do this on your PC. Of course, your planned route can then be downloaded to your smartphone.

Here you can get the free app for IOS and here for Android.

Hiking Apps: All about the weather

A change in the weather holds great potential danger, especially when hiking in the mountains. What do I do in a sudden thunderstorm and when will the rain front pass? Some hiking apps give you an excellent forecast of the weather in the mountains. This way, you can plan before your tour whether a hike is sensible or even too risky and dangerous.

Hiking app: bergfex/Wetter App
In addition to an excellent overview of tours, Bergfex offers an app that gives you the best information about weather conditions. The mountain weather forecasts apply to the Alpine region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Slovenia, Italy). In addition to a rain radar, the app shows you information about precipitation, temperature, wind and sunshine duration.

You can download the free version of the app here for IOS and here for Android.

Hiking App: RegenRadar
Another app that specializes in precipitation is RegenRadar. The app gives you information about the past and the upcoming 90 minutes. So you always know if your tour makes sense at the current time! You can currently use the app in Austria, Germany and Switzerland. For information specifically about the weather, it is possible to be forwarded to WetterOnline within the app.

Here you can get the free app for IOS and here for Android.

Hiking Apps: For emergencies

In addition to the weather forecast and route planning, apps can provide much more support when hiking. In an emergency, the little helpers can save valuable minutes and, for example, reduce the time between alerting and rescue.

Even if the emergency does not occur, these apps do not complicate your luggage in any case.

Wander App: Emergency App for Tyrol
With its integrated GPS function, the Wander App determines the exact order of the alarm. Location and personal data can be transmitted at the push of a button. The emergency app is a valuable addition to the alp

in an emergency number in Tyrol (140). The direct connection to the control center Tyrol allows you to ensure a telephone connection. This serves to clarify the emergency situation in detail and to support the person concerned. The app is not only a good companion when hiking: You can of course also activate it outside the mountains in emergency situations

.

You can download the free app for IOS here.

Hiking app: Rega
The Swiss counterpart to the Tyrolean app is the Rega app. With a swipe, your position data is automatically forwarded to the Rena operations center

. Your exact location can be displayed in detail on your map. The app also gives you information on what to do in the event of a medical emergency at home or abroad.

For paying users, there is a special additional function to monitor your own activities and the location of friends. This is especially valuable if you are alone in the mountains!

Download the app here for IOS and here for Android.

Hiking App: alpenvereinaktiv
The app alpenvereinaktiv is primarily intended for planning tours and routes. In addition, in case of an emergency, you can use the emergency call function to connect to the rescue center

. Your current position will be transmitted to the emergency call center.

Download the app for IOS here and for Android here.

Hiking Apps: Discoveries by the wayside

Hiking App: pl@ntNet Plant identification
Using visual recognition software, this app allows you to identify plants. The database contains over 20,000 species

– trees, flowers and leaves can be identified in a short time. The highest hit rate can be achieved by photographing only a part of the plant on a neutral background.

Get the app for Android here.

Hiking App: ViewRanger
The ViewRanger app is the perfect companion when it comes to planning routes and discovering sights along the way. With the help of the skyline function, you can scan the surrounding area and get information about prominent points

. This gives you a quick overview of the peaks and lakes – really cool: The respective names are shown on your display in real time!

Download the app here for IOS and here for Android.

Hiking App: Sun Surveyor
Especially on hikes it is essential to know when the sun rises and sets

. Not only to find the perfect photo spot, but also for your own safety. In addition, the app provides you with precise information about the sun’s position during the course of the day. A 3D compass is also integrated.

Get the app here for IOS and here for Android!

All hiking apps in your hiking backpack

The hiking route in view and always the weather conditions on the radar: With the presented hiking apps on your smartphone there is even time to explore the plants along the way. And that’s not all: Thanks to ViewRanger, you’ll also become a summit expert!

With the right hiking apps in your backpack and a real outdoor smartphone, nothing stands in the way of your next hiking adventure!

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Higher, further, faster! Are you also one of those adventurers who like to head out into nature at the weekend, and preferably into the mountains? Hiking is becoming more and more popular, but people often forget that it is a sport that is not entirely safe and always requires good preparation.

In addition to the right equipment and a look at the weather conditions, there are more points with which you should deal before it starts. Hiking safety should be at the top of your list! To keep you safe and relaxed on the trail, we’re giving you hiking tips here!

Hiking Tips: 13 practical tips for your next hiking adventure!

Hiking Tips: How to prepare for your hike

Hiking Tips No. 1: Choosing a Hiking Route

Whether it’s a leisurely hike through Germany’s meadows and forests or a true trekking adventure along the Annapurna Trek in Nepal, your plan always begins with planning the route: How many miles will I cover and what are the trails like? How long will I be on the trail in total, a few hours, several days or even weeks?

It is important to find out in advance about refreshment stops along the route. That way, you can better estimate your food needs. There are some good hiking apps on the market that make it easier for you to choose your route and show you not only the length and altitude, but also the degree of difficulty. In addition to your smartphone, we recommend that you always pack a hiking map. After all, in case of a dead battery, the app of your smartphone will not bring you home!

Reading tip: In this article we give you an overview of the best hiking apps!

In addition, the selection of the hiking route should be adapted to your physical abilities and those of your group. For example, if it is the first tour of the year, we recommend that you do not start with a high alpine hike.
Here always applies: Orientate yourself on the strength, experience and endurance of the weakest member in the group!

To get an idea of the level of difficulty, you can use the SAC hiking scale as a guide. This was introduced in 2002 by the Swiss Alpine Club and is divided into six grades. Where T1 is the easiest and T6 the most difficult.

SAC hiking scale

T1 (easy valley trail, yellow):

• wide and easy paths
• there is no danger of falling if you behave normally
• orientation is possible without problems

T2 (easy mountain path, blue):

• continuous terrace or/and partially steep passages
• danger of falling is not completely excluded
• surefootedness is necessary

T3 (moderately difficult mountain trail, red):

• paths are partly not visible
• exposed passages are possible, but secured by chains or wire ropes
• in some places there is a danger of falling
• good surefootedness and mountain boots are required

T4 (difficult mountain trail, black):

• a good head for heights and surefootedness are urgently required
• a Wegspur is not always present
• the terrain is partly exposed
• glacier passages are possible in the high mountains
• alpine experience is necessary

T5 (difficult mountain trail, black):

• often pathless with easy climbing sections
• glacier passages in the high mountains with danger of slipping are possible
• very good orientation skills and alpine experience are expected
• the use of ice axe and rope is mandatory

T6 (difficult mountain trail, black):

• almost always pathless with climbing sections up to level II
• glaciers with increased danger of slipping are possible
• a mature alpine experience is necessary
• the use of ice axe and rope is mandatory

On the official website of the German Alpine Club you can see the SAC hiking scale in detail. Here you can also find the classification of via ferrata.

Hiking tips no. 2: Unwritten rules on the mountain

In addition to the established rules on a hike, such as the times of hut rest or the guidelines for eating food you brought with you at a hut, there are also a number of rules of conduct that you should observe on your hike.

Rules of conduct while hiking:

• take leftovers and packing material back with you
• stay on the marked paths
• do not break off plants or destroy them wantonly
• do not listen to loud music and keep quiet
• always let hikers who are descending go first

Hiking tips No. 3: Invest in suitable hiking shoes

Stumbling, falling or slipping: It can happen quickly that you step or slip while hiking. The reasons for this are often poor footwear or the wrong assessment of the terrain. With the help of good hiking boots, your foot is relieved and your surefootedness is improved.

When choosing your hiking boots, we recommend that you make sure they fit well. The shoe should not pinch, nor should you feel uncomfortable when walking. In addition, the optimal hiking shoe has a low weight and a non-slip sole. Now you probably ask yourself the question: How do hiking shoes differ from each other and which material fits best to my hike? To make it easier for you to find the right shoe for you, here is an overview of the individual shoe categories:

Overview of the different hiking shoe categories:

Category A:

• light hiking shoe
• flexible sole and little cushioning
• for short hikes

Category A/B:

• high hiking shoe
• mostly firm and stiff sole
• day hikes or multi-day hikes
• for hikes with slight ascent and occasional loose ground

Category B:

• high trekking shoe
• Cushioning due to thick midsole
• classic for multi-day tours with a heavy backpack
• for hikes in partly rough terrain
• not for hikes in cold temperatures

Category B/C:

• heavy high trekking shoe
• very good tread, stiff sole
• for hikes in rough and steep terrain</li>
• for via ferrata and altitudes of up to 4000 meters

Category C:

• Mountain boots made of very robust material
• very good shoe profile, stiff sole
• high dead weight
• the shaft is usually additionally insulated
• for hiking in very steep terrain and on ice

Category D:

• Expedition boots
• very good shoe profile, stiff sole
• extremely robust boot with removable, insulated inner shoe
• the shaft is usually additionally insulated
• for expeditions, glacier tours as well as extreme mountaineering

We have been hiking with category B and B/C shoes from Hanwag for several years and are very enthusiastic about the brand. In addition to the models from Hanwag, we can recommend the hiking boots from Tecnica. The highlight of Tecnica shoes is that they can be individually adjusted to your feet!

We can highly recommend these hiking shoes:

After you have found the right hiking boots, you should break them in beforehand on short hikes. You can also wear the hiking shoes now and then in everyday life. This way, they will slowly adapt to the shape of your feet and prevent blisters from forming on your first big hike.

Hiking tips No. 4: The basic equipment for your hike!

For your hike in easy terrain, the choice of clothing is not quite as relevant. It’s a different story for hikes in steep terrain and multi-day tours. Here you should pay attention to functionality and an optimal fit. We recommend that you pack as little as possible for your hike and use lightweight materialsfor clothing and equipment.

However, you can’t avoid packing a few items in your backpack. The following list gives you an overview of the basic equipment for your next hike. Of course, on a multi-day tour, different items belong in your backpack than on an easy day tour.

Reading tip: You can get a detailed packing list for your next hike here!

Basic hiking equipment:

Hiking tips: How to hike the right way

Hiking Tips No. 5: Dress according to the onion principle

As already mentioned, we recommend that you equip yourself with functional clothing for your hike. Once you’ve bought them, all you have to do is use them to their fullest potential!

The best way to do this is to use the so-called onion principle: the onion principle and the right functional clothing ensure that you stay dry and warm on your hike. As the name suggests, the onion principle is about combining several layers of clothing. Depending on temperature and effort, you decide which materials are comfortable for you. Subdivided here is the three-layer principle:

Three-layer principle:

First layer or baselayer

• lies directly on the skin
• keeps you warm and dry
• mostly underwear, socks, T-shirts and shirts

Second layer or midlayer

• Intermediate layer: depending on the activity
• serves as insulation
• several layers are possible

Third layer or outer shelfl

• serves as protection against rain, snow and wind
• allows excess moisture to escape
• mostly rain jackets and pants as well as softshell jackets

How many layers you use at which temperature and hike, we can not tell you in general. Since your temperature sensation differs from that of your hiking partners, it may well be that you are still running in a T-shirt while others are already putting on a fleece jacket.

It is best to try out for yourself what is comfortable for you. Basically, we can tell you that at the beginning of your tour you should wear less and even get a little cold. If you are already warm at the start, you are definitely wearing too much! And don’t worry, after a few meters you will be warm for sure!

Hiking tips No. 6: Use hiking poles

In addition to hiking boots and clothing, good hiking poles belong to the basic equipment of every hike! Especially in steep terrain or on tours with a lot of luggage, you can reduce the pressure on your joints and muscles with the help of hiking poles. In addition, the poles help you in rough terrain to keep your balance and save your strength. It is practical that you can easily adjust the hiking poles to the right length using the locking system. Uphill, you should shorten the pole length depending on the steepness of the slope. If the poles are in your way in rocky terrain, you can easily attach them to the outside of your backpack.

Reading tip: Learn how to find the perfect hiking pole for you!

Hiking Tips No. 7: Take enough breaks and walk slowly at first

However, the right equipment is no guarantee that you won’t twist your ankle and injure yourself while hiking. Especially if you walk too fast or if you are tired, your surefootedness will be affected enormously. Therefore, always make sure to take regular breaks during your hike and always start your tour at a moderate pace. Only after about 30 minutes your muscles are warm and the risk of injury is reduced!

Reading tip: What makes a good hiking shoe and what you should look for when buying, we have summarized in our article!

Hiking tips No. 8: Pack your hiking backpack correctly

What things belong in your backpack for your hike depends on the type of hike you are doing. For example, if it is a day hike, you need less equipment than for a multi-day tour. The same applies to hikes in flat terrain and high alpine tours.

As a general rule, a trained hiker can carry about 20 to 25 percent of his or her body weight over a longer period of time. So, in any case, do not carry unnecessary weight! As a rough guide, you can weigh your backpack once. For a multi-day tour, for example, the scales should not show more than 12 kilograms.

Reading tip: What exactly belongs in your hiking backpack you can read in our detailed article!

Rules of thumb for packing your hiking backpack:

• Pack heavy equipment at the bottom and close to your body.
• medium-weight gear goes on top and on the outside
• light equipment belongs either in the Boden compartment or all the way to the top
• store small items in the lid compartment

Always try to attach as little equipment as possible to the outside of the backpack – an exception is of course your water bottle!

Extra tip:

Use packing cubes to bring order into your hiking backpack and especially to keep it! For example, we love the Mash Bags from Tatonka*!

Hiking Tips No. 9: How to adjust your hiking backpack and carry it properly

After you have packed your backpack for a tour, you have to adjust it to you. Following the rule: the weight is carried on your hips and not on your back,

you should take a closer look at your backpack. Your hips will carry about 75% of the weight, while your shoulders will carry the remaining 25%. Therefore, the optimal adjustment of the backpack is very important!

First open the shoulder, hip and chest straps as well as the position adjustment straps and bend forward slightly, now you can adjust your hiking backpack correctly.

This is how you adjust your fully packed backpack for a perfect fit:

• place the hip belt exactly in the middle of your hip bones
• close the buckle and tighten it comfortably
• tighten the shoulder straps (shoulder pads should be snug against the shoulder)
• adjust the height of the shoulder straps until they fit you…

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Are you looking for a suitable hiking backpack for your next adventure on foot? Do you need your hiking backpack for a shorter hike, or a scenic hut hike in the mountains? Or even for a trekking tour lasting several weeks? We show you which different hiking backpack models are available!

In addition, we tell you what to look for when choosing your hiking backpack and which hiking backpacks we can recommend. At the end, we’ll also give you tips on how to wear your hiking backpack properly!

With these tips you will find the right hiking backpack for you!

What to look for when choosing a hiking backpack

Hiking backpacks are available in abundance! To help you know what to look for when choosing the right hiking backpack, here are our best tips for you!

Hiking backpack tip 1: Try on your hiking backpack fully packed

First of all, the most important thing is that your hiking backpack really fits you. It doesn’t matter how practical and beautiful a backpack might be. If it’s not comfortable for you to wear, it’s not for you. Everyone has a different body. Accordingly, one backpack may fit your friend perfectly, but it may not fit you.

Therefore, here is our most important tip: try on your hiking backpack once fully packed. This is the only way to find out if it really fits you. That it does not squeeze or chafe uncomfortably even when fully loaded. Your hiking backpack should give you enough freedom of movement and not restrict you while hiking.

Hiking backpack tip 2: Look for water-repellent materials and high-quality workmanship

Your hiking backpack is primarily intended for your adventures on foot out in nature. Therefore, it should withstand even the worst weather conditions. So make sure that the surface of your hiking backpack is water-repellent and robust. Many manufacturers also offer extra rain covers for their hiking backpacks.

In addition, your hiking backpack should be made of breathable and lightweight materials. After all, hiking is not much fun with unnecessary weight on your back. It is also important to have a high-quality finish, and that especially on zippers and seams.

Hiking backpack tip 3: Look for good padding and a back as free as possible

To make your hiking backpack more comfortable to carry, it should be well padded on the shoulder straps and back. For multi-day hikes, it’s best if the hip belt is also padded.

It is also a great advantage if your hiking backpack is designed to keep your back as free as possible. This way, you sweat less on your back and have more fun while hiking!

Hiking backpack tip 4: Look for extra compartments and devices

In addition to a large main compartment, your hiking backpack should also offer at least one other small compartment. Here you can pack important documents, your bowl or cash. Also practical are compartments on the outside of your backpack. They are the perfect place to keep your water bottle handy!

If you’re heading out on a longer hiking adventure, your hiking backpack should also offer a top and bottom compartment. In addition, there should ben attachment options for your hiking poles or, for example, for your rain jacket are located.

Hiking backpack brand tip: hiking backpacks from Fjällräven!

We can recommend the Fjällräven brand in particular for your search for the right hiking backpack. The company is especially known for its worldwide popular Kånken backpack. However, you can also get really great backpacks for all your adventures on foot. Whether for a leisurely day hike or a real trekking adventure.

Most of the backpacks from Fjällräven are made of the specially developed and extremely durable G-1000. Due to the dense weave, the material is particularly wind-resistant. You can make it even more weatherproof by treating it with Greenland Wax. This is a mixture of beeswax and kerosene. Really practical: All hiking backpacks also come with a matching and highly visible rain cover in the color UN Blue. So your backpack and your belongings are even better protected from rain and moisture while hiking.

In addition, the hiking backpacks are not only high quality and very thoughtfully processed, they also all look really cool. Which hiking backpacks we can recommend you specifically for which hiking adventure, we tell you further down in the article. When we take a closer look at the different models in hiking backpacks.

Extra tip: At Fjällräven you can also get really great hiking clothes in addition to hiking backpacks. How to dress properly on a hike, we tell you here!

The different backpack models for hiking

Hiking backpacks can be divided into three different categories. You can use these as a guide when buying your hiking backpack.

Overview of the different hiking backpack models:

• Hiking or daypack: these backpack models are designed especially for day hikes and have a volume between 15-30 liters.
• Touring backpack: With a volume between 30-50 liters, this hiking backpack offers enough space for multi-day tours or hut hikes.
• Trekking Backpack: With a volume of 50-70 liters, this hiking backpack is primarily intended for trekking adventures. So adventures where you are several days to several weeks with the tent on the road.

Hiking backpack extra tip: hiking backpacks specifically for women!

Most manufacturers nowadays offer backpack models specifically for women. These are adapted to the female anatomy and can therefore be carried much more comfortably as a woman. So as an adventurer, it’s best to always look for such women’s models. At Fjällräven, for example, these are marked with a “W” at the end of the backpack name.

By the way: In addition to the classic hiking backpack, you can also find models in outdoor stores that are particularly suitable for climbing and via ferrata. But also some that are intended for trail running. These are much smaller and lighter in comparison. They offer, for example, extra devices for your climbing equipment or have an integrated hydration system.

What makes a good hiking backpack

If you are only going on a shorter hike or a day trip, a good backpack is enough.n simple hiking backpack. These backpack models have a volume of 15 to 30 liters. They usually offer a large main compartment and also a small compartment inside or in the lid of the backpack.

Compared to the other two backpack models, these hiking backpacks are less padded. In addition, they often offer only a simple hip belt. The main focus here is on a low weight and as much freedom of movement as possible.

We can recommend this hiking backpack: Fjällräven Abisko Hike 15

A great hiking backpack for your day trips is the slim Abisko Hike 15. Compared to many other backpack models in this category, it offers two spacious main compartments. You’ll also find two interior compartments, including one with a zipper, and another compartment on the back. In it, you can store a hiking map, for example, without it getting crushed.

Practical are also the two outer pockets on the sides, in which you can store your water bottle, as well as the tension net on the front outside. Here you can clamp your fleece or your rain jacket handy. In addition, the Abisko Hike 15 offers compression straps on both sides. You can also use these to attach your hiking poles or hiking clothes to the outside of your backpack. At the top of the handle is also a small opening, so you can also integrate a hydration system in the hiking backpack.

Hiking backpack in G-1000 Eco

The backpack is made of durable and water-repellent G-1000 Eco and G-1000 HeavyDuty Eco S. On the one hand, it is made of recycled polyester. It is made of recycled polyester (65%) on the one hand and also organic cotton (35%) on the other. The backpack offers a comfortable carrying system with breathable mesh fabric. Therefore, it is also suitable for your hiking adventures in warm climates or with high intensity.

The Abisko Hike 15 costs 129.95 euros (MSRP) and it comes in six different colors, including Black, Stone Grey, Navy and Dark Sand (beige). The green and flame orange colors are particularly cool in our opinion!

What makes a good touring backpack

A touring backpack must offer much more space compared to a simple daypack. In addition, of course, it must be able to carry more weight. Such hiking backpacks offer a volume of 30-50 liters, whereas we would recommend you a backpack with about 40 liters.

Due to the higher load, these hiking backpacks are also better padded. In addition, they also offer a padded hip belt. To improve carrying comfort and stability, an additional frame is usually built into the backpack.

Furthermore, touring backpacks offer more compartments. In addition to a large main compartment, these hiking backpacks also have a lid compartment as well as other compartments on the sides, front or bottom. After all, you need to take a lot more with you for a multi-day hike.

The main focus of these hiking backpacks is a compromise between light weight and plenty of space.

We can recommend this touring backpack: Fjällräven Abisko Hike 35

The Abisko Hike 35 from Fjällräven is a lightweight and very versatile hiking backpack. With its volume of 35 liters, it is perfect for mehrtägige hikes. He also offers a high wearing comfort thanks to the lightly padded shoulder and hip straps and the lightweight frame.

Especially practical is the large main compartment, which you can access both from the top and from the side. Inside the main compartment is a zippered security pocket. The lid also offers two more pockets. By the way, this hiking backpack is adjustable in height. Therefore, you can also easily store your sleeping pad* under the lid. In addition, the Abisko Hike 35 offers a front pocket and an expandable side pocket.

On both sides of the backpack are compression straps and loops on the hip belts. Here you can attach, for example, a small camera bag and have your camera always at hand while hiking. The Abisko Hike 35 is also compatible with a hydration system and is made of G-1000 Eco and G-1000 HeavyDuty Eco S. It is available in the same colors as the Abisko Hike 15 and costs 159.95 euros (RRP).

Hiking backpack extra tip: Abisko Friluft 35

Should you rather hike in warm and humid climates, such as Costa Rica, the Abisko Friluft 35 is just right for you. This touring backpack is equipped with the new Friluft ventilation system. Also with a lightweight aluminum frame with mesh back insert. This provides even better ventilation on the back. It is available in three colors: Deep Forest, Stone Grey and UN Blue. In addition, it is also available as a women’s model as Abisko Friluft 35 W. The backpack costs 189.95 euros (MSRP).

What makes a good trekking backpack

A trekking backpack, often referred to as a backpack backpack, has a volume of over 50 to up to 70 liters. However, we wouldn’t recommend you go with more than 65 liters. Anything over that also means too much weight for your back. It is also important for a trekking backpack that the back length can be adjusted. So you can adjust the backpack to your body.

In addition to a large main compartment and many other compartments, the technical details are particularly important in a trekking backpack. Thus, your hiking backpack should offer extra attachment options, such as for ice axes. In addition, extra reinforcements, such as at the bottom. In a trekking backpack, the main focus is therefore on a combination of technical details and very high wearing comfort.

We can recommend this trekking backpack: Fjällräven Keb 52

With the Fjällräven Keb 52 you have a faithful companion for your trekking adventures, whether in summer or winter. It offers the ideal size and enough space. In addition, also fastening options for your hiking clothes and your hiking equipment such as tent*, sleeping bag* and sleeping pad*.

The carrying system was specially developed to balance heavy loads. It is not only robust, but also very comfortable. You can adjust the back length individually. The special feature is also Fjällrävens unique wooden frame, which was also integrated in the Keb 52. This reduces CO2 emissions by 90%!

The side sections and the bottom have been additionally reinforced with the new innovative, waterproof Bergshell material. Therefore, you can also easily use it on wet Untergru

nd put down. It costs 299.95 euros (RRP) and is available in two colors: Black and Storm Dark Navy. In addition, as a special women’s model also in the color Dark Lava.

Hiking backpack extra tip: Fjällräven Kajka 55 W for womenA

great trekking backpack especially for women is also the Kajka 55 W from Fjällräven. It was also equipped with the innovative wooden frame and is specially designed for heavy luggage. The well-padded hip belt provides additional support and, together with the ergonomic shoulder straps, ensures extra carrying comfort. Thanks to the Perfect Fit adjustment system, you can also adjust the backpack perfectly to your body at the back and shoulders.

The compartments of the Kajka are also cleverly divided. The large main compartment can be divided horizontally and opened from the top as well as from the front. In addition, there is a practical bottom compartment where you can store, for example, your wet or dirty clothes separately from the rest. There are zippered pockets not only on the lid, but also on the sides and even on the hip belt. In addition, the lid can be removed and worn as a hip or chest pocket.

Hiking Backpack Side Compression StrapsThe

Kajka

also

offers compression straps on both sides. These are attached so that the side pockets are not blocked….

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It is like it is: if the hiking shoes don’t fit, no hike is fun, no matter how beautiful the trail is! Besides, with the huge selection of manufacturers and models nowadays, choosing the right hiking boots isn’t even that easy.

What should I look for when choosing my hiking boots and what actually makes a good hiking boot?

We’ll give you our top tips on how to find the right hiking boots for you, so you can embark on your next hiking adventure in complete comfort and without blisters. And because that’s not all, we’ll also give you tips on how to properly care for your hiking boots – here we go!

Here’s how to find the right hiking boots for your next adventure on foot!

Why hiking boots are more than just shoes!

Many people ask themselves whether they really need hiking boots or whether it is not enough to wear normal sneakers when hiking. For a leisurely walk over field and forest paths sneakers may certainly suffice. However, even in this case you walk more comfortably in hiking boots.

However, as soon as the wag becomes a bit more challenging, it’s not just about comfort while hiking. It’s also about your safety. Hiking boots support your feet, protect your ankles and provide more grip. This minimizes the risk of you slipping or twisting your ankle, and the risk of injury is lower when hiking thanks to your hiking boots.

Materials & workmanshipIn addition,

hiking boots are made of functional materials. On the one hand, these ensure that your feet sweat less and on the other hand, they stay dry even in the rain or on wet ground. Good hiking shoes are made of breathable, water-repellent and lightweight materials.

But the shape and workmanship also play an important role. For example, hiking shoes offer high-quality padding and a particularly slip-resistant and robust profile. This not only makes walking in hiking boots on long distances more pleasant, but also ensures that the hiking boots themselves last longer.

Most sneakers usually only last a few hikes. A fortiori, they won’t last through a mountain climb. In contrast, good hiking boots will last through countless hiking adventures or mountain climbs. An investment in a good pair of hiking boots will pay off even after years of use. However, you must of course care for your hiking boots properly. More about this at the end of the article.

How to find the right hiking boots for you!

Hiking boots are not all the same. There are a variety of different hiking boots and models. With the huge selection, it is easy to lose track. Before you start looking for hiking boots, you should first ask yourself two questions:

Two important questions when choosing the right hiking boots

:

• Question 1: For what kind of hikes do I need my hiking shoes?
• Question 2: What material should my hiking boots be made of?

With the help of these two questions in mind, you can start looking for the right hiking shoes. To make your choice easier, here are our best tips for choosing the right hiking shoes for you!

<h3>Tip 1: Orient yourself on the shoe categories

Hiking shoes can be divided into 6 categories that will help you find the right hiking shoes for your hiking adventures. By the way, this shoe categorization was invented by the shoe manufacturer Meindl. Today, however, it is used as standard by most manufacturers and thus provides more transparency.

The different hiking shoe categories at a glance

• A: This category includes multifunctional shoes (hiking shoes) with a flexible sole and little cushioning. They are suitable for shorter hikes on flat, well-paved trails and with light luggage.

• A/B: These are lightweight hiking shoes with a little more height (mid cuts), but without fixed ankle protection. They are equipped with a twistable, but relatively stiff and thick sole. These hiking shoes are suitable for longer day hikes or even multi-day tours. In the process, with medium-heavy luggage, where you run over largely paved paths in slightly hilly terrain.

• B: Category B hiking boots are classic hiking boots with a high lacing, a stable shaft and a firmer sole. They are often made of leather and are suitable for multi-day hikes with a large backpack. With these hiking boots you can hike through mountainous and sometimes rough terrain. They can also be used with dumplings (half crampons/light crampons).

Hard Core hiking boots

• B/C: These are trekking boots with very high lacing. They also offer good ankle protection and a firm sole construction with a deep tread. These models are usually made of sturdy leather and are suitable for hiking in rough and steep terrain. Can of course also be worn for shorter winter hikes. In addition to Grödel, you can usually use these hiking boots crampons with double basket binding and master via ferrata.

• C: Category C includes real mountain boots with a very deep profile. These hiking boots have a high weight and are made of very robust materials. You can wear these in alpine terrain. They have a very high shaft and are often additionally insulated. Dabai they offer extra reinforcements as well as protective edges. In addition, you can also use semi-automatic crampons with these models. With these hiking boots you can undertake longer trekking tours with heavy luggage, via ferrata tours or winter hikes. However, the sole is very firm and hardly allows rolling.
• D: These are expedition boots that are extremely stable and absolutely crampon resistant. They are extremely sturdy and durable and offer a firm, buckling resistant shaft. Such expedition boots are especially meant for high mountain tours and extreme mountaineering, where you cross glaciers or even ice climb. The sole of these hiking boots is so stiff that no rolling movement is possible.

Category B hiking boots are good all-rounders

Provided you don’t just want to roam leisurely through forests and meadows and, on the other hand, aren’t a blatant mountaineer, you’re usually fine with category B hiking boots. equipped for your hiking adventures. They offer good stability, yet are lightweight and are also suitable for multi-day hikes with heavy luggage!

If, on the other hand, you want to hike more and especially longer in the mountains and, for example, once around the Annapurna Mountains or even in the Mount Everest Base Camp in Nepal, you should opt for the more stable hiking boots of the category B/C. However, these are not suitable for everyday hiking, as they are too hard.

We can recommend these 3 hiking boot models of category B and B/C

We have been hiking in Hanwag hiking boots for several years now and can highly recommend this brand. For example, the genuine goat-sewn (more on that later) Hanwag Tashi, a category B hiking boot made of sturdy yak leather, is great. For category B/C we can recommend the Hanwag Tatra II. This is available as a men’s and women’s model (Lady) and optionally with leather or Gore-Tex (GTX).

We can also recommend the Forge S GTX from Tecnica.

The special feature of these hiking boots is that they can be individually adjusted to your feet. To do this, the company uses its expertise from the ski boot sector. It also applies Tecnica C.A.S. technology to its trekking boots. The Forge S GTX is made entirely of synthetic materials, while the Forge GTX uses nubuck leather. These hiking boots also come in men’s (M) and women’s (W) models, and they’re not only super comfortable, but they also look super chic!

Tip 2: Choose the right material for your hiking boots

To find the right hiking shoes for you, you should take a closer look at the different materials. Important are the upper material and the lining of your hiking boots. Here, different materials are used in each case. In addition to leather, synthetic materials and Gore-Tex membranes are used.

Hiking boots make high demands on the material

Even today, the majority of hiking boots are still made of leather. Nubuck leather and suede leather are used in particular. Suede leather is very stable and durable, and is therefore often used for alpine mountain boots.

At the same time, hiking boots made of suede are also significantly heavier, not quite as air-permeable and offer little flexibility. Nubuck leather, in comparison, is more flexible, lighter and more breathable, but is also suitable for demanding hikes. The advantage that hiking boots made of pure leather offer is that they provide your feet with a particularly comfortable climate.

The disadvantage, however, is that leather hiking boots require intensive care in order to be permanently waterproof. In addition, leather hiking boots dry worse and slower. On a multi-day hut hike in wet weather, this can quickly become problematic.

Synthetic materials & Gore Tex membranes

It’s clear that synthetic materials are easier to care for and cheaper. Nylon fibers such as mesh or Cordura are often used here. The advantage of these materials is that they are very flexible, breathable, lightweight and water repellent. The disadvantage, however, is that hiking boots made of synthetic materials wear out faster and offer less stability. </p>In addition,

many manufacturers rely on Gore-Tex membranes. These are incorporated between the upper material and the inner lining and ensure that neither wind nor water can penetrate the shoes. Especially when hiking in wet terrain or in the snow, hiking boots with Gore-Tex are of course worth their weight in gold! The problem with Gore-Tex, however, is that your own body heat is less able to escape and you therefore sweat more in your hiking boots.

Set on a combination of different materialsThe

upper material and the inner lining should together ensure that your hiking boots are on the one hand robust and water-repellent, and on the other hand breathable, flexible and lightweight. That’s a lot of requirements at once!

For easier hikes, therefore, hiking boots made of leather and nylon are suitable, for alpine mountain hikes, on the other hand, you should rely on a combination of leather and Gore-Tex membranes.

Tip 3: Pay attention to the sole of your hiking bootsWith

hiking boots, a distinction is made between the midsole and the outsole. The midsole is responsible for the cushioning of the shoe. It ensures that you are more comfortable when walking. On the other hand, the outsole provides support, protection and slip resistance and thus more safety while hiking.

The midsole provides cushioningThe

midsole uses either polyurethane (PU) or ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA). PU provides more cushioning, but is not quite as durable due to the use of plasticizers and is more commonly used for Category A or B hiking boots. EVA, on the other hand, is more robust and is used for hiking boots in higher categories, but does not provide quite as much cushioning.

The outsole provides grip and slip resistanceOutsoles

are usually made of a rubber (caoutchouc) and carbon mixture. The more rubber is incorporated into the sole, the more slip-resistant and grippy the sole is. Carbon, on the other hand, makes the sole more robust and abrasion-resistant, but also more slippery. In addition, the temperature is decisive: the soles become softer in hot weather and harder in cold weather.

The right tread for your hikesNot

only the material of the sole, but also the tread you should take a closer look at. The more difficult the terrain, the deeper the tread should usually be. On the other hand, alpine hiking boots often offer less profile in the toe area, but special, grippier climbing zones and harder edge stability.

By the way:

The soles of hiking boots are designed in such a way that dirt is automatically pushed out by the flexing movement of the foot when walking!

Tip 4: Set on a high quality makeIn addition to the

materials, the processing also plays an important role: Hiking boots are manufactured either in a sewn or in a glued make. The type of manufacture refers to the way in which the sole is connected to the shoe upper.

Here is an overview of the types of construction for hiking boots:

Frame-stitched construction or “Goodyear”:
Here, an invisible single-stitch seam joins the upper to the insole, while at the same time a leather strip (frame) is sewn onto the outside. This leather frame is then joined to the insole by a visible double seam.

wipe sole is connected. The advantage of this method is that the insole is not punctured and therefore no water can penetrate into the inside of your hiking boot.

“Genuine” goat-sewn style:
In this traditional and very high-quality style, a second seam, the so-called double seam, is placed next to the first, so-called single seam. This connects the upper leather with the frame and the midsole, depending on the model. This ensures particular stability and weather resistance, which is especially advantageous for alpine mountain boots. You can recognize this type of making by the fact that the upper leather is visible at the edge of the sole.

(“False”) Double-stitched style:
This style is similar to the true double-stitched style, but all protrusions are removed and the double stitching is only pulled between the welt and the midsole. The upper leather is not sewn in a second time.

Trigenähtte Machart:

For very heavy mountain boots, an additional seam is incorporated and here we therefore speak of the Trigenähtte Machart, the remaining steps are identical to those of the zwiegenähtte

Machart.

Pinched:
The pinched is also one of the more sophisticated types of stitching and is the most demanding. Here, the upper leather is attached to the insole with small nails (Täcks) or with glue (Klebezwicken). The great advantage of this method is that you can…

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You have chosen the perfect hiking route, your hiking backpack is packed and your hiking boots are ready. Now all you need are the right hiking poles to start your adventure on foot!

Why the small slim helpers should not be missing on your hiking adventures and make the ascent and descent much easier, we explain in our article. In addition, we reveal what technology is hidden behind the different models and why we can especially recommend the hiking poles of the brand Black Diamond!

Finally, you will also get a few practical tips from us to hand, so you know how to adjust your hiking poles to you and use them properly!

How to find the right hiking poles for you and use them correctly!

First of all: 4 good reasons why you should use trekking poles!

Reason No. 1: More safety and stability in the terrain

Especially when crossing ice fields or walking through a river, hiking poles give you the stability you need. As a third and fourth leg, so to speak, the poles provide not only more balance, but also more safety in rough terrain. Should you be unfocused or tired for a moment, hiking poles can prevent you from slipping.

Reason No. 2: Upright posture and better breathing

Properly adjusted hiking poles promote an upright posture during your hike and counteract buckling in the back. Especially during a hike with a heavy backpack, a bending forward can happen quickly due to the weight. By the way, the upright posture also improves breathing!

Reason No. 3: Relief for joints and muscles

When walking downhill, a multiple of your own body weight acts on your joints with every step. Especially on a long descent, you can reduce the pressure on your joints by using hiking poles. This also saves you an enormous amount of energy, especially on steep terrain.

In addition to relieving the pressure on your joints, your arms and shoulders automatically move with you when you hike with a pole. By the way, hiking is also a holistic workout for your body.

Reason No. 4: Airing your clothes

After a sweaty ascent it can happen that your clothes are sweaty. With the help of your hiking poles you can quickly get your shirt dry again. Stick the poles into the ground and hang up your sweaty clothes between the two hiking poles. This way you can relax and enjoy the view while your clothes dry in the sun!

What to look for when choosing your hiking poles

The different handles and closure systems, as well as the various details Are confusing at first. Also, the special suspension systems, quickly put you before a puzzle when choosing the right hiking poles. What features and extras should my hiking poles bring?

To bring a little light into the darkness, we give you an overview of the different materials and systems as well as the types of use in hiking poles.

The handle : it’s the handling that counts

The handles and the hand straps for hiking poles are made of different material materials. When buying, make sure that the handle and the hand straps are comfortable to hold. After all, you’ll be holding your hiking poles for most of your hike.

Here’s an overview of the different grips and materials:

• Cork: reduce blisters and sweat, are grippy, and also warm your hands
• EVA foam: grippy and comfortable to hold, breathable, but wears out relatively quickly
• Plastic: do not wick sweat, quick blistering
• Padded hand straps: reduce cutting of the hands, promote power transmission

The material: the lighter, the better!

There are also differences in the material of the hiking poles themselves: from handle to tip, the materials differ in weight, price and handling. Most hiking poles are made of either aluminum or carbon: While hiking poles made of aluminum are stable and relatively inexpensive, those made of carbon are comparatively lighter and therefore more expensive, but offer less stability when loaded in the wrong direction. The best way to find out which material is the better choice for you is to visit a specialist store.

The differences in the material of hiking poles:

• Hiking poles made of aluminum: stable and relatively inexpensive
• Hiking poles made of carbon: very light and stable, comparatively more expensive, no cushioning

Closure systems and cushioning: these extras are helpful with hiking poles!

Twist lock or folding system, with cushioning or without? Which extras you should choose when choosing your hiking poles is ultimately up to you: In addition to your personal feeling, the area of use also plays a major role!

Hiking poles with twist lock and clamping system inside:

Hiking poles with twist lock are particularly light: the tubes are pushed together by means of an internal clamping system and fixed by the lock. If you use the hiking poles a lot, it can happen that the tubes slip together. If you want to use the poles in the winter, such as on ski tours, you should note that the adjustment with gloves is not easy.

Hiking poles with twist lock and clamping system on the outside:

In contrast, hiking poles with an external clamping system can be adjusted quickly and easily: Due to the closure on the outside of the poles, they seem a bit bulky compared to the clamp closure on the inside. However, they are very durable and easy to handle.

Hiking poles with folding system:

With the folding system, the hiking poles usually consist of three parts and are folded like an accordion: This makes the hiking poles particularly small and light. In addition, the individual segments can not slip together.

Hiking poles with cushioning:

Some hiking pole models have built-in cushioning: especially when walking downhill on hard ground, the cushioning absorbs hard impacts. So you can relieve your hand and shoulder joints while hiking enormously.

The plate on hiking poles: It depends on the terrain

The plate of hiking poles can be either very small and narrow, or somewhat larger and wider.n. Wider plates give you a better grip and make it easier to move forward in the snow. However, they are not suitable for hiking in rough and rocky terrain. Because of the size you get stuck quickly in crevasses!

The good thing is that with most hiking poles you can quickly and easily replace the plates, and thus adapt your hiking poles to different terrain in no time.

We can recommend this brand for hiking poles: Black Diamond!

We have now countless times with the hiking poles of the brand Black Diamond plunged into our adventures on foot. Thanks to this experience, we can only recommend the manufacturer. At Black Diamond you will find a variety of different hiking pole models, all of very high quality.

From simple models for easier hikes, to technically sophisticated hiking poles for more demanding tours. For every hiking adventure, Black Diamond has the right hiking poles. And for all adventurers Black Diamond even offers hiking poles specifically for women!

It is also practical that you can easily reorder individual parts at Black Diamond. So if you ever lose the tip or the plate of your hiking pole, you can easily reorder it on the Black Diamond website.

These different hiking pole models are available

To make it easier for you to choose the right hiking poles, you can use the different categories. Black Diamond distinguishes here as follows:

Overview of the different hiking pole models at Black Diamond

• Alpine hiking poles: Alpine hiking poles are very durable and offer an optimal grip. They are particularly suitable for demanding routes with heavy luggage and can be used all year round. They are also easy to store. You can quickly and easily replace the plates depending on the season.
• Distance Hiking Poles: These hiking poles are also small and easy to stow. Due to their light weight and small size, Distance hiking poles are great for longer hikes. Also, for your hiking adventures far away that require you to hop on a plane.
• Trail Hiking Poles: Trail hiking poles are easily adjustable and perfect in handling. They are also suitable for your hikes all year round. They are especially a great choice for your trekking adventures.

In detail: Women’s Trail Ergo Cork Trekking Poles from Black Diamond.

Designed specifically for women, the trekking pole fits your hand perfectly: The ergonomically shaped handle made of cork regulates moisture and thus counteracts sweating. In addition, it is equipped with a soft grip extension, so that a fast Umgreifen in steep terrain is no problem.

The closure system on the Trail Ergo consists of two so-called FlickLocks: this allows you to adjust the desired pole length quickly and easily. If you plan to hike in different terrain, the tips of the poles (Tech Tips) can be easily replaced – so you can also use the poles for hiking in winter! To do this, you simply replace the plates with correspondingly sizedößere aus.

These features and extras make the Women’s Trail Ergo from Black Diamond a stylish trekking pole for all your hiking adventures!

Women’s Trail Ergo Cork Trekking Poles Key data

• Weight per pair: 500 g
• Usable length: 65-125 cm
• Length when folded: 65 cm
• Color: gray/light blue
• Price: 95,- Euro (RRP)

In detail: Trail Pro Shock Trekking Poles from Black Diamond

Also suitable for year-round off-road use are the Trail Pro Shock Trekking Poles from Black Diamond. Ingenious is the shock-absorbing Control Shock technology inside the grip. This is particularly noticeable during your hikes in steep terrain. The four levels of damping reduce the stress on your wrists, shoulders and elbows. The soft rubber grip is also very comfortable. Here, particularly wide hand loops ensure that you do not lose your grip even on steep terrain.

The comfortable locking technology of the hiking poles is also super practical:

With the help of the so-called SmashLock technology, you push the telescopic pole apart when adjusting the length until you hear a clear click and the pole locks into place. To push the pole together, release the upper lock and tap the tip of the pole on the ground. The system automatically retracts and the trekking poles fit perfectly on your backpack again!

Trail Pro Shock Trekking Poles from Black Diamond Key data

• Weight per pair: 590 g
• Usable length: 105-140 cm
• Length when folded: 68 cm
• Color: Grey/Black
• Price: 130,- Euro (RRP)

Tips for the correct use of your hiking poles

How long do hiking poles actually need to be and how do I use them on steep terrain? Especially when going downhill and in rough terrain, you should pay attention to the proper use of your hiking poles!

Hiking poles tips No. 1: The correct adjustment of the length

Before you set off for the summit, it is important to adjust your hiking poles to your body size.

Here’s how to adjust your trekking poles:

• put on your hiking boots
• stand up straight
• take the trekking poles in your hand
• place the trekking poles perpendicular to the ground in front of you
• your elbows should be bent 90 degrees

Then carefully close the closures of the trekking poles. In the terrain you can adjust the length according to the conditions: In the case of steep slopes, we recommend that you set the poles a little longer, and in the case of ascents, a little shorter. In the event of a slope crossing, you can simply change your grip. To do this, put your hand under the grip facing the slope – this way you can easily compensate for the slope.

Tips No. 2: Then you should pack away your hiking poles

Keep in mind that not all sections of your hike require the use of trekking poles. Especially on difficult terrain or easy climbs, your trekking poles will hinder you more than they help. In this case, you should attach both poles to your backpack. This way your hands are free to hold on to a rope or rock, for example.

T

ipps No. 3: How to walk correctly with

walking poles

Basically, you can remember that walking with walking poles corresponds to the natural walking movement of humans. Similar to Nordic walking, you must use the walking poles alternately with your legs: right leg and left pole, left leg and right pole. Keep the walking poles close to your body at all times, but still far enough away to avoid threading.

On the other hand, the rules for descending are different from those for ascending. Here you put both trekking poles in front of your body at the same time. As a rule, we recommend that you place the poles on the ground at every second step. Then push yourself away upwards with both arms. Using the double poles will save you a tremendous amount of energy when going downhill!

Tip #4: Proper Grip Technique

The grip

and loop are by no means just ornamental on your hiking poles. Reach through the loop from below and grasp the handle. You can tighten the loop until it fits comfortably. This way, even if you hold the handle loosely, you will still have a certain…

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