05 July,2026 09:45 AM IST | Mumbai | Isha Ganesan
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Take your first step (again) with a beginner-friendly hike during the monsoons. You don't need to be a mountaineer to enjoy the rains, feel the cool weather, watch the scenic views, and take a memorable trek up the next hill. Here's a checklist of basics to carry along:
Deliciousness and hydration cannot be stopped, even on the rise to your next hill stop. Carry dry, healthy foods, and non-perishable items such as protein bars and trail mix, alongside a large water bottle to keep your strength up. But remember, do not litter by throwing wrappers around.
Now, to help you carry everything, including food, water, extra clothes, and raincoats, get yourself a nice backpack that isn't too bulky but lightweight and spacious. Fun fact, backpacks actually help maintain balance by keeping your hands free, and preventing shoulder strain by distributing weight evenly. So, if you don't want to end up carrying everything in your tiny jacket pockets, bring a backpack, and you're next in line to be the new Dora the Explorer.
If you've been told to wear sneakers for hikes, DON'T. That's a slippery slope nobody wants to walk on. For trekking, please wear specialised shoes with rubber soles that help you stay stable and comfortable on rough, wet terrain.
Does your phone battery die faster than the change of a tide? Don't let that kill your sense of direction. For safety, carry a small compass to provide simplistic directions back to your original location. Simply remember, unlike Google Maps, your compass doesn't need network, just natural magnetism.
Bring an umbrella only if you wish to be pulled into the rains and the winds like Mary Poppins. Better to cosplay as Jaadu instead, with a raincoat or poncho that will at least keep you dry. Instead of hearing supercalifragilisticexpialidocious, you'll hear Ohm, Ohm, Ohm, Ohm.
