5 tips to hike safely in Hong Kong this summer
- Stifling conditions can put hiking enthusiasts in peril if they are not prepared
- Arm yourself with key knowledge and resources to stay safe on trails
Hong Kong and peak summer do not constitute the most obvious bedfellows when choosing a location and time to embark on a hiking expedition.
Forewarned is forearmed, however. With knowledge of necessary precautions and available areas to explore, it is perfectly possible to hurdle the heat barrier and savour the city’s diverse terrain.
Take note of the following five tips, then strap on your boots and start exploring.
1. Drink plenty
It is imperative to remain hydrated, which means sustaining a steady water intake throughout the hike. Aim to be fully hydrated before leaving home and carry enough water to last the duration of your trek.
Do not be duped if you are not feeling thirsty. Your body needs fluid to withstand the heat and has multiple ways of letting you know if it is not getting enough water, none of them especially pleasant.
Efficient hydration increases energy and alertness, ensuring you enjoy every step of your hike. And do not forget to bring food, too, because not every trail is populated with shops and cafes.
2. Slip, slop, slap
The mantra devised by Australian health officials to underline the imperative of applying sunscreen more than 40 years ago is similarly pertinent today.