As the days start to get longer and the end of Winter is in sight, now is the perfect time to get into hiking! As always, safety is paramount, so whether you’ve tried it before or are a total beginner, planning can be hugely helpful in keeping you safe and on track while out hiking. We’ve put together some tips and guidelines to get you outdoors while staying safe in 2025!
First things first - plan ahead
Quite simply - be sure to make a plan before you head out anywhere. Check your weather in advance, using apps like Mountain Forecast, Met Éireann, Accuweather.or YR - a personal favourite at Outwest. Be sure to check things like temperature, visibility, and rainfall, as weather can change fast on a mountain.
Find the right route
Whether you are exploring the trails alone or with friends, always have a clear route plan and estimate how long it will take beforehand. You can use a smartphone app like All Trails, but if you are, it is also worth downloading the map before you go on a hike as phone reception could be patchy. As a back up, a physical compass and a map are crucial to help you navigate your route to ensure you stay safe, even in the digital age!
Get Packing
No one wants to be caught out on a mountain trail without the right equipment, or reach the summit before realising you forgot your snacks! When it comes to gear - we recommend always packing up sufficient layers, a beanie and a rain jacket. Water is essential as well as some filling snacks. If you’re heading out in the spring or summer time, don’t forget SPF and insect repellent to keep the bugs at bay. Not sure what else to pack? Check out Shane’s video here to make sure you’re fully equipped before your next adventure!
Safety First
Ensure your phone is charged up before heading anywhere, and if you have a power bank - be sure to bring it. If you have one, a first aid kit is always a great idea, but if you don’t, a few basics like plasters, antiseptic wipes, pain relief, antihistamines and a compression bandage will be handy to have in your bag.
If you’re heading hiking on your own - always let a friend or family member know your route, expected return time, and consider sharing your live location. If you’re heading out during sunrise or sunset, plan your timings carefully to avoid getting caught in the dark - and always pack a torch, headtorch or use the light on your phone to see where you’re going.
Enjoy it!
Hiking offers a chance to escape the rush of daily life, find peace in nature, and explore beautiful places at your own pace. With the right preparation, solo adventures can build confidence and deepen your connection to the world around you.
If you find the idea of heading out on your own a bit daunting, meeting some likeminded people to share the adventure with could be a great way to get started. We’re so lucky that across Ireland, there are many great social and hiking groups that are beginner friendly.
If you’re looking for company, The Outwest Outdoor Club is open to all! We host regular events and hikes, with some exciting ones planned for this year - you can check out our events page or join our WhatsApp group for updates.
We’ve also been lucky to partner with some amazing groups such as Soul Stuff Adventures, Sliabh Hiking or Galz Gone Wild, who organise hikes across Ireland (and beyond)! Joining any of these groups, you’re guaranteed to meet some amazing people and have a great time in the outdoors too.
We hope to see you on an outdoor adventure soon. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for more tips, and let us know if you use this guide on your next journey in the outdoors!
