Budget Guide to Hiking

Hiking is one of the few sports which requires little expensive equipment and the variety of places around the globe is unending. The only things to watch out for are the conditions, suitability of your gear (there are some basics you'll always need), any land ownership issues, and accommodation if you're out on more than a day tramp.

Where to go

Just about anywhere in the world. The cost will vary depending on the difficulty of your trek (whether or not you need guides, specialist equipment etc), whether there are any charges to use trails eg. New Zealand, the cost of camp sites or huts, consider also the cost of insurance compared to the cost of removing you from the back of beyond should you get stuck.

Some top spots include:

Scotland - free access to any uncultivated land; free wild camping; free bothies; free potable water (check there's no dead sheep upstream first)

New Zealand - Trails and huts have a charge but this is to minimise numbers (and environmenta impact) and to repair damage so it's ok

Northern Europe - A vast array of marked trails run through the forests and mountains of Scandinavia and surrounding countries and they're all free to use

Himalayas - A guided trek of whatever level you can cope with to see (or stand on but that's not really low budget) the world's highest peaks

The Alps - Stunning scenery and a mixture of trails, plus with the rifugios / rifugis to stay in you can top it all off with some amazing local cuisine.

When to go

Always pay attention to local knowledge regarding weather patterns, things like avalanche risk, suitability of the water for drinking, local dangers etc.

Equipment on a Budget.

Hiking equipment needn't be expensive, the most important part is your boots. A decent outdoor shop should be able to advise you on what you need. Rucsac, tent, sleeping bags can all be borrowed, picked up second hand and often hired in many countries. You can sometimes pick up free maps from local tourist offices though if they do cost money buy one. You should also carry some basic first aid and a survival bag / foil bag, it's pretty easy to break an ankle even on slightly rough terrain.