Our tips for an Active Holiday in Summer

You want to Take a Walking Trip but Only Have Summer Holidays. Should you still go for it? 

The answer is: Yes. you don’t need to worry! Summer can be a fantastic season for a walking trip. With long daylight hours, warm summer evenings to enjoy at your accommodations, the chance to take refreshing dips, local festivals, and much more, summer has plenty to offer. You just need to be aware of a few simple tips and prepare accordingly. In this article, we’ll show you how.

Embracing Summer Walking Trips

When it comes to the ideal season for a walking trip, summer often gets a bad rap. The main reasons are the heat, which can be challenging if not handled properly, and the crowds—popular tourist destinations can be particularly busy in summer. So, what should you do if the only time you have off is in the summer? Our advice: don’t be discouraged! Plan your walking holiday with a few simple guidelines in mind, and you’ll have a fantastic, enjoyable, and safe trip. We’ve also included a special section dedicated to mountain trips because there are unique considerations beyond just the heat.

1) Choose Less Touristy Destinations
This suggestion can greatly enhance your trip. Choosing to visit popular tourist spots in summer means dealing with crowds, limited availability if you book last minute, full restaurants and museums, and more. Opting for off-the-beaten-path destinations helps you avoid large crowds and fully enjoy your chosen location. Plus, you can always plan to visit popular spots during the off-season, in spring or autumn. It's also a sustainable choice, helping to spread tourism and support the economies of lesser-known areas.

2) Stay Hydrated and Eat Smart
Staying hydrated is crucial when walking in summer. Check your daily route to find out where you can refill your water bottle (or better yet, use a hydration pack with a straw to encourage frequent sips). Always carry plenty of water, along with supplements and electrolytes to help you cope with the heat. If you don't have these on hand, adding a pinch of salt to your water bottle can help, even if it doesn’t taste great.

Eating properly is equally important. The heat can suppress your appetite, but it’s essential to eat a healthy breakfast and snack frequently throughout the day. Bananas, dried fruits, energy bars, and water-rich foods like fruits and salads are great choices to keep you fueled.

3) Apply Sunscreen
We’re not your mother, but we care about your skin. Sunscreen is a must for walking in summer without unpleasant surprises. Choose a high SPF (at least 30, preferably 50), and don’t forget your face. Reapply every two hours, and be generous with the amount.

4) Cover Up (We’re Not Kidding)
Ever wondered why people living in deserts or hot climates often cover their bodies with light, breathable clothing? Covering your skin protects you from the harmful effects of the sun. Sunglasses and a hat are essential, and lightweight, technical fabric clothing can protect your legs and arms from insect bites or tall grass. Convertible pants that zip off into shorts are perfect for varied terrain.

Avoid tight clothing or anything made of cotton or synthetic fibers—they don’t breathe well, can make you sweat, and react poorly to heat and direct sunlight.

5) Start Early in the Morning
Yes, getting up early on vacation might not sound appealing, but it’s one of the best ways to enjoy your summer walking trip. You’ll walk in cooler temperatures, avoid the midday sun, and, if you’re on a shorter route, you might reach your destination by lunchtime. This gives you the afternoon to relax and explore.

For longer routes, plan a break in a shady spot to avoid the hottest part of the day and resume walking when it cools down.

6) Enjoy Local Events and Festivals
Summer is also a time for local festivals and celebrations. Research the areas you’ll be traveling through beforehand—you might find a special event or festival to attend. One of the joys of summer travel is experiencing everything your host region has to offer!

And What About the Mountains?

We dedicate this part of the article to mountain trips because some hikers think they’re safe from the challenges of summer hiking. However, there are important rules to consider here too.

1) All the Above Rules Apply
Yes, the tips above are just as important for mountain hiking. Stay hydrated, protect yourself from the sun (you’ll be closer to it), start early, and eat well. These are essential rules for any situation.

Don’t forget gloves and a hat, and study the terrain to know what type of clothing to bring. Dressing in layers is key—higher altitudes can mean encountering snow or much cooler temperatures, so be prepared.

2) Pay Attention to the Weather!
Always pay attention to the weather, because summer doesn’t guarantee perfect conditions. A rain jacket should always be in your backpack. In the mountains, this is even more critical as no one wants to be caught in a storm on the trail.

Starting early helps avoid afternoon thunderstorms, but it’s crucial to check the weather forecast daily and adjust your plans accordingly—even if it means shortening or canceling your hike. Safety should always come first.

3) Safety First
Speaking of safety, it’s vital to ensure you’re always in safe conditions, especially in the mountains. Start with the right footwear and stick to known trails or work with a guide. Always have a map, be prepared for trail conditions, and have a charged phone for emergencies.

We hope we’ve reassured you: summer hiking can be wonderful, and the rules to follow are simple and logical.

Now all that’s left is to choose your destination and set off—and if you need advice, we’re here to help!