If you’ve got a summer mountain trip on the books, you’re probably the envy of everyone you know right now, especially if you live anywhere that’s hot.
And rightly so, because there’s nothing in this world that beats the beauty, peace, and spiritual refreshment that can be had on a mountain retreat – and when you’re in the mood for some fun or excitement, the mountains have plenty of that, too.
If you’re like most people, you’ve probably paid a lot of money for this vacation Backpacking Trails Ultimate Backpacking Guide, and you may be spending valuable time off from work, too. So you’ll want to do everything you can to make your trip extra-special and problem-free-and that begins with some smart mountain travel trips:
One: Pack smart.
Summer mountain trips can be characterized by warm days, cool nights, and sudden rainstorms. If possible, get some clothing advice from the owner or manager of the property where you’ll be staying, or from friends or family who live in or have visited the area where you’re headed.
Also, be sure and read the weather forecast before you start packing. Other packing tips include:
• Pack a mix of short and long-sleeved clothing, as well as a mix of shorts and long pants.
• Bringing a light jacket (something you can tie around your waist if it gets warm) is highly recommended.
• Layered ensembles (ones where you can remove outer layers as it warms up) are always a good idea.
• Don’t forget your running shoes or hiking boots, as well as comfortable shoes for shopping or sightseeing.
• Other essentials include hats, broad-screen protection sunscreen lotion, and UVA-UVB-blocking sunglasses. (Bonus tip: Keep a sunscreen stick in your purse or backpack for easy and mess-free reapplication while you are out and about.)
• If you’re cold-natured, you might want to bring long johns or winter-friendly pajamas.
Two: Be prepared for the weather.
As mentioned above, there’s some unpredictability with mountain weather. Depending on where you’re going for your mountain trip and what you intend to do when you get there, you may need to consider bringing along the following;
• Compass
• Rain gear
• Extra mobile phone batteries
• Flashlight
• First Aid kit
• Matches
• Vacuum-sealed food and bottled water
Three: Figure out driving ahead of time.
Depending on the location and weather conditions, driving in the mountains can be tricky. If you’re going to drive while you’re on your trip, read up on some mountain driving safety tips and make sure your car receives the appropriate maintenance before you leave.
Four: Figure out what you want to see ahead of time.
You’ll want to spend your time relaxing or enjoying your activities while you’re actually on vacation, so take some time before your trip to research options and map out a game plan of your destinations and favorite things to do. The tourism bureaus of the state/region where you’re going to visit are excellent places to start.
Five: Have an emergency game plan.
If you intend to hike or do anything in the water while you’re on your trip, or if your mountain hideaway is rather remote, you’ll want to be prepared in the event of an emergency:
• Bring a first aid kit and other emergency supplies (see “be prepared for the weather” above).
• Make arrangements for someone to check on you via phone call or text.
• Find out where the nearest urgent care or emergency clinics are in advance.
• Make sure to pack appropriate amounts of essential medication.
