Last reviewed and updated: March 2026
Starting hiking seems simple.
You imagine a nice walk, decent views, maybe a bit of fresh air. Nothing too complicated.
And to be fair, it is simple.
But there are a few things no one really tells you at the start. Small things that you only figure out after a few walks, usually the slightly uncomfortable ones.
A lot of beginners end up spending money on gear that doesn’t actually improve their experience.
It Feels Harder Than It Looks
From a distance, walking up a hill does not look particularly difficult.
Then you try it.
It is not extreme, but it is just hard enough to make you question your fitness about halfway up.
This catches a lot of people out. It is normal. It gets easier fairly quickly, but the first few walks can feel more like effort than enjoyment.
You Will Probably Wear the Wrong Thing
This is almost guaranteed.
Too many layers, not enough layers, the wrong material entirely.
You either end up too hot and slightly sweaty, or just cold enough to be uncomfortable.
It takes a few attempts to get it right.
If you are unsure, it is worth reading:
What to Wear Hiking in the UK (Beginner Guide)
The Weather Rarely Does What You Expect
You check the forecast. It looks fine.
Then it changes.
Rain appears, wind picks up, or it just feels colder than it should.
This is part of hiking in the UK. You get used to it, but it takes a few walks before you stop trusting the forecast completely.
You Do Not Need as Much Gear as You Think
At the start, it is easy to assume you need loads of equipment.
In reality, you don’t.
For most walks:
- decent shoes
- a waterproof
- some basic essentials
That is enough.
You figure out what you actually need over time, usually by carrying things you never use.
You Will Overthink the First Few Walks
Planning, checking routes, worrying about distance, second guessing everything.
It all feels more complicated than it is.
After a few walks, it becomes much simpler. You stop overthinking it and just go.
Not Every Walk Is Amazing
This is probably the biggest one.
Some walks are great. Good views, good weather, everything works.
Others are just… fine.
A bit muddy, slightly cold, nothing particularly memorable.
That is normal.
The good ones are better because of the average ones.
It Gets Better Quite Quickly
Once you get past the first few walks:
- you dress properly
- you choose better routes
- you pace yourself
Everything improves.
What felt difficult at the start becomes fairly straightforward.
Final Thoughts
Starting hiking is simple, but getting comfortable with it takes a few walks.
Most of the things that feel awkward at the beginning disappear fairly quickly.
You just have to stick with it long enough to get past that stage.
If you are just getting started, it is worth reading:
How to Start Hiking in the UK (Beginner Guide)
and
Beginner Hiking Mistakes to Avoid
