Hiking is an activity that is typically very affordable as it’s very accessible. For the most simple hikes, all you need is a basic set of equipment and then you can simply start walking through the terrain and set off on your adventure - then, as you begin having bigger budgets to play with, you can look into hiking holidays, which are based over a few days or weeks (depending on the duration you would like to do).
Hiking on a budget doesn’t mean you aren’t going to have a good time. In fact, with sites like Facebook marketplace or eBay, you can get some great deals on very reputable brands, giving you the same experience as everyone else. Quickly search used hiking boots, and used hiking gear and see what pops up - before buying anything, confirm the condition of the equipment you are thinking of buying.
There are many ways in which you can save money when hiking, which is why we’ve put together our guide on easy tips for hiking on a budget.
Buy used walking boots
What you will find when looking in the secondhand walking boots market, is that a lot of people buy a new pair of boots, use them once or twice and then never again. These boots will still have many years left in them, making them the perfect purchase if you are trying to save some money. Often the prices will be a lot cheaper than if you bought them new and the condition is good enough that you won’t damage your feet using them. Before buying second-hand walking boots, make sure you try them on and check for any damage - you don’t want to be on an 18-day hiking break to find out the soles are falling apart.
Buy used hiking clothes
Hiking is a tiring exercise, but more often than not, won’t ruin your outfit or put it through testing conditions. Just like your used walking boots, this means there is a good market for used hiking clothes. With a quick search on a used marketplace, you will find many hiking t-shirts, hiking trousers and hiking leggings. If you don’t want to go down the secondhand route, try shopping in budget-friendly sports shops as these will have good sale items that you can take advantage of.
Make your own first-aid kit
When going on a hike, it’s important you have a first-aid kit with you, in case something happens on your travels (we hope you don’t need to use it). Most pre-made first-aid kits are going to be more expensive than if you put your own together. In most cases, you can create your own first-aid kit, using own brand of plasters, painkillers and antibac. Branded ones tend to be a lot more expensive, which isn’t ideal when hiking on a budget.
What tips would you suggest to someone looking to hike on a budget? Which of the above tips did you find most useful? Is there anything you would like to share that will help our readers? Let us know in the comment box below.
