Fancy taking up hiking but not sure where to begin? Good news: you don't need to be a seasoned athlete or spend a fortune to get out walking. With the right route, a well-packed rucksack and a few simple habits, your first outing can be a real pleasure rather than a slog.
We've pulled together everything you need to start hiking with confidence: the basic kit, how to choose your first hike, packing your rucksack, what to wear and how to plan for the weather. Let's walk you through it.
Kit for beginner hikers
Before you head off, a word on kit: there's no need to buy everything at once. For a first outing, three things really matter — a comfortable, well-fitted rucksack, good footwear, and something to keep you hydrated. The rest comes with experience. As for the rucksack, a lightweight 20 to 30 litre model is more than enough for a day out; a small belt bag keeps your essentials (phone, keys, snacks) within easy reach without having to open your rucksack. Here's our pick to help you get started:
Choosing your first hike
The key to a successful first outing is setting a goal within your reach. It's better to finish a short loop with a smile than to exhaust yourself on too ambitious a route. Here are a few pointers to help you choose:
- Distance. When you're starting out, aim for 5 to 10 km on a well-marked path. You'll average around 3 km/h over natural terrain, breaks included.
- Elevation gain. Stick to under 300 to 400 metres of ascent: this, far more than the distance, is what determines how tough a walk feels.
- Waymarking. Choose a well-known, clearly marked route (coloured paint flashes on trees and rocks), with a map or a GPS track on your phone so you're never unsure at junctions.
Also check the estimated walking time and build in a margin: in a group, or with children, you'll move more slowly. Set off early so you're not caught out by nightfall, and always keep a fallback option (a shortcut, a turnaround point) in case tiredness sets in.
Getting started with hiking: the video guide
To see the right techniques and the classic beginner pitfalls in action, this video runs through the most common mistakes - pace, kit, preparation - and offers practical tips to avoid them from your very first outing.
Packing your rucksack properly
A well-packed rucksack means a back that doesn't ache and gear you can actually find. The golden rule: the heaviest items close to your back and in the centre, lighter things at the bottom, and whatever you need often (water, snacks, a windproof) right at the top or in the pockets. Bring plenty of water — 1.5 to 2 litres per person — a small first aid kit, an energy snack, sun cream and your phone fully charged. A water bladder tucked into your rucksack lets you sip regularly without stopping, which makes a real difference to how the effort feels:
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Dressing for the trail: the three-layer rule
Out on the trail, the weather and your body temperature can change fast. The solution? The three-layer system, which you add to or peel off as needed. A breathable base layer against your skin wicks away sweat; a warm mid layer (fleece or a light down jacket) traps heat; a windproof, water-repellent outer layer shields you from wind and rain. Steer clear of cotton, which stays damp and leaves you cold. The aim isn't to wrap up as much as possible, but to be able to adapt: take off a layer on the climb, put it back on at the rest stop. Always pack a spare warm layer, even in fine weather.
Anticipating the weather and staying safe
Mountain weather can turn in a matter of hours. Before setting off, check the local forecast and the dedicated bulletin: the Météo-France mountain forecast gives details on wind, temperatures and risks by massif. Always let someone know your route and expected return time, keep your phone charged, and don't hesitate to turn back or call it off if the weather turns. A rain cover keeps your rucksack (and everything in it) dry when the downpour hits:
Rain Cover for 20-60L Rucksack
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Once you've got these habits down, what really matters is enjoying the moment. Hiking isn't a race. Take the time to look up, take in the scenery, and pause to catch your breath and have a snack. Walking at your own pace, feeling the air change as you gain height, reaching a viewpoint after the climb: that's the real joy of walking. The more short walks you do, the more ease, stamina and confidence you'll build for tackling longer or more demanding routes later on.
The essential kit at a glance
To help you see clearly before packing your rucksack, here's the kit that really makes a difference on a first hike. Nothing superfluous: every item has its purpose, and our guidelines help you avoid overloading your rucksack needlessly. Keep in mind that good beginner's kit is, above all, simple, lightweight and well-fitted — you can build on it later as you go, depending on the terrain and seasons you discover. There's no need to invest in high-end technical gear from the start: comfort and common sense matter more than performance when you're starting out. Here's the summary:
| Item | Why | Our beginner's checklist |
|---|---|---|
| Rucksack | Carry water, layers and snacks | 20 to 30 L, well-fitted to your back |
| Boots | Grip and ankle support | Grippy sole, comfort above all |
| Water | Staying hydrated throughout your walk | 1.5 to 2 L per person |
| Clothing | Adjusting to cold, effort and rain | 3 adaptable layers |
| Rain protection | Keeping your rucksack and yourself dry | Rain cover + windproof jacket |
Our tips for a brilliant first hike
- Go with company. Walking with one other person or in a small group keeps spirits up, makes the experience more enjoyable, and is safer than going solo for your first hike.
- Keep a steady pace. Walk at a speed that still lets you hold a conversation - no sprinting, and no stopping every five minutes.
- Eat and drink before you feel hungry or thirsty. Small, regular sips of water and a snack every hour help you avoid that sudden energy slump.
- Choose the right rucksack. An ill-fitting rucksack can ruin a day out: our guide to choosing a hiking rucksack helps you find the right size, and you can compare models in our hiking rucksacks collection or our small rucksacks for day hikes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What gear do you need to start hiking? The essentials come down to three things: a well-fitted, lightweight 20 to 30 litre rucksack, a good pair of walking boots, and enough water to stay hydrated (1.5 to 2 litres). Add three clothing layers and some rain protection, and you're good to go.
How far should your first hike be? Aim for 5 to 10 km with less than 300 to 400 metres of ascent, on a clearly marked trail. It's the ascent, more than the distance, that determines how tough a walk feels.
What should you wear for hiking? Stick to the three-layer rule: a breathable base layer, a warm mid-layer, and a windproof, water-resistant outer layer. Skip the cotton and adjust your layers to suit the effort and the weather.
Which rucksack is best for starting out hiking? A lightweight 20 to 30 litre model is plenty for a day out: enough room for water, extra layers and snacks, while staying comfortable. Just make sure it adjusts properly to your shoulders and waist.
