The 10 Commandments of Trekking: The Backpacker Bible

🥾 1. Thou Shalt Break In Thy Boots Before the First Blister Breaks You

Fresh-out-of-the-box boots look cool in airport selfies but will absolutely ruin your life by day two of a hike. If you're planning to walk for 5+ hours a day, your feet deserve better.

How to do it right:
Start wearing your boots on long walks, short hikes, and even around the house (seriously). They should feel comfy, not tight, with zero hotspots. Blister plasters? Pack them. Everyone’s a hero until the first heel starts burning.

💧 2. Thou Shalt Hydrate Religiously (Even When Not Thirsty)

You sweat more than you think, especially at altitude — and dehydration will sneak up on you like a ninja. The headaches, the fatigue, the dry mouth? Not a great feeling.

What you need:

• Minimum 2–3 litres of water per day

• Refillable bottle or hydration bladder

• Water treatment tabs or filters if the trail doesn’t offer clean sources

Rule of thumb: If your pee is dark yellow, drink more. (Sorry, but it had to be said!)

😵‍💫 3. Thou Shalt Not Underestimate Altitude

Altitude sickness doesn’t care how fit you are. You could be a marathon runner — if you gain elevation too quickly, it can hit hard. Headaches, nausea, dizziness — all of it can knock you down fast.

Play it smart:

• Ascend slowly

• Rest on arrival days

• Avoid alcohol (we know, but trust us)

• Drink tons of water

• Know the symptoms, and tell your guide if something feels off

Coca tea helps. So do electrolytes. But nothing replaces a good pace and common sense.

🧻 4. Thou Shalt Always Carry Toilet Paper (and a Ziplock Bag)

Public bathrooms? Rare. Toilet paper? Rarer. And nature does not appreciate you leaving little white flags in the bushes.

The holy bathroom kit:

• Toilet paper or wet wipes

• Hand sanitiser

• Ziplock bag for used paper (yes, you’re packing it out)

• Trowel if you’re really going off-grid

You’ll feel weird the first time. Then you’ll feel like Bear Grylls. Circle of life.

🎒 5. Thou Shalt Pack Light — Then Lighter Still

You do not need four t-shirts. You do not need that extra book. You really don’t need full-size shampoo. If your pack is heavier than 10kg, you’ll regret it — especially on steep climbs.

Tips to lighten the load:

• Quick-dry clothes, one of each

• Travel-size toiletries only

• Leave the “just in case” items at home

• Share gear with a travel buddy when you can

You’ll thank yourself later — usually while walking uphill in the heat.

🛌 6. Thou Shalt Take Rest Seriously

Rest days aren’t lazy — they’re survival. Your legs, back, and brain need time to reset. And so do your feet (especially if you're dreaming of wearing sandals again someday).

What rest looks like:

• Sleeping early

• Elevating your legs

• Eating well (yes, even if it’s pasta three nights in a row)

• Stretching before and after hiking

Listen to your body. It’s the only way to make it to the end without falling apart.

🧠 7. Thou Shalt Train Thy Mind as Much as Thy Quads

Trekking isn't just physical. It’s a mental game — especially on the fourth hour of an uphill slog, when your shoulders hurt and the summit still feels miles away.

Mental prep checklist:

• Know your “why” — remind yourself when things get tough

• Break the day into sections: "just make it to the next water stop"

• Music helps. So do good trekking buddies.

• And remember: moving slow is still moving forward!

You’ll have highs. You’ll hit lows. That’s what makes the journey worth it.

🐢 8. Thou Shalt Not Rush the Trek

Altitude is real. So are injuries from pushing too hard. Your pace should match your body, not the Insta-fitness influencer ahead of you.

Golden rule:
Go slow. Take breaks. Enjoy the view. Your legs will last longer and your brain will actually remember the scenery.

Some treks, like the Inca Trail or Kilimanjaro, are paced for you. Others (like El Chaltén) are more DIY — so self-manage like a boss.

🤝 9. Thou Shalt Respect the Trail (and Everyone On It)

This one’s simple but important. Don’t be that person.

The basics:

• Leave no trace (yes, even banana peels)

• Keep noise down

• Let faster hikers pass

• Say hi to people you meet — especially locals and porters

• Follow the rules of the trail

You’re not just hiking — you’re sharing a space with nature, with other travelers, and with communities who live nearby.

👣 10. Thou Shalt Be Real With Thyself

Not every trek is for everyone. Know your limits. Choose the trail that fits your level, not just your Instagram feed.

Ask yourself:

• Am I ready for 6–8 hours of hiking per day?

• Am I OK with no showers for a few days?

• Can I handle altitude?

If not — no stress. There are amazing day hikes and easier treks that still bring the magic. It’s about adventure, not ego.

Trekking is one of the best things you can do for your brain, your body, and your travel stories. But it's also a challenge — and it hits differently when you're prepared. So follow these commandments, pack smart, and don't forget to enjoy the journey (even when your calves are screaming).

Now go forth and hike like a legend. Your future trail self will thank you.