Properly distributing items in your backpack can make a hike much easier—and the opposite is also true. Essentials (money, ID, smartphone, sunglasses, hiking map) and health-related items (blister plasters, sunscreen, tick remover, first aid kit, mosquito spray) belong in the top section of the backpack. Light items (sleeping bag, clothing) go at the bottom, heavy items should be placed as centrally and high up as possible, close to your back; the lighter the item, the further from the body and lower it should be packed. Don’t forget things like: rain protection, water bottle, snacks, hiking poles, flashlight, binoculars, seat cushion, pocket knife, functional underwear, sun protection, warm clothing, and much more.
Small equipment checklist
Check your shoes before starting (tread, seams and glued areas, fit) and waterproof them, as well as the locking mechanisms and straps on your hiking poles. Breathable functional clothing—lightweight, quick-drying, and odor-neutral—should be worn close to the body, and a wind- and waterproof jacket is a must.
Warning: Danger
Always check the weather forecast before heading out; the higher you go, the faster weather changes can occur. In case of an approaching storm, seek shelter as quickly as possible. Fog impairs orientation, and climbing routes should be strictly avoided during thunderstorms—lightning in the mountains is life-threatening. Keep your distance from cows, especially mother cows. If a cow attacks, try to scare it off with loud noises and movements. Always keep dogs on a leash, and don’t forget a poop bag.
In case of emergency
Even though hiking isn’t a high-risk sport, accidents can happen—falls, scrapes, blisters, animal attacks. Always carry an emergency first aid kit; it’s lightweight but can provide crucial help. 140 Mountain Rescue. 112 European emergency number. 144 Ambulance, but not for alpine emergencies. No signal? Turn your phone off and on again and enter 112 instead of your PIN.
Most travel insurance policies from Europäische include alpine rescue and recovery—please check your coverage. https://www.europaeische.at/en/we-cover/vacation-in-austria https://www.europaeische.at/en/we-cover/worldwide-and-europe
Book tip
Christian Hlade, *The Big Book of Hiking*. All the tips and tricks to ensure meaningful encounters with nature, other cultures, and yourself. Published in 2019 by Braumüller Verlag. Highly recommended!