| Perhaps more than most trips, preparing to undertake a walking vacation
requires quite a bit of advance planning. We have separate pages about what you should plan to take and picking
your itinerary. On this page we'll discuss our recommendations for
your trip personal trip preparations. Of course, you'll want to make sure your
passport (and visa if required) are in order, check your health insurance to make sure
you're covered on such a trip, etc., etc.
But what we really want to talk about is getting YOU ready for the trip.
Unless you walk 10-15 miles per day in your usual routine, you need to spend some time
getting in shape. Your overall conditioning is important, but being physically fit
does not mean you're in shape for a long walking trip with pack. What is really
critical is that you have good footwear that is well broken in, and that your feet are in
shape for extended daily walking. There is really no other way to do this than to
simulate the walking you'll be doing and to work yourself up to being able to comfortably
walk the number of miles that you plan to do on your vacation. you should work up to
that distance carrying the amount of weight you'll have on the actual trip. If
anything you should be a little overly aggressive with this, because when you get to your
destination, you'll also be walking around seeing the sights, shopping, or just taking
care of basic chores -- all on your feet.
So that's it; end of sermon. But we urge you not to shortchange yourself
here. You'll be glad you made the extra effort! Now if you haven't already
been there click those other trip planning links. |
