If you’re visiting a new and unfamiliar part of the world, then you might find that the best way to get from one place to the next is by walking. Many destinations are designed to be navigated on foot, and by doing so, you’ll be able to enjoy an up-close experience, without the barrier of a car door or a train cabin getting in the way.

But, as rewarding as these kinds of trips can be, they can often also be exhausting – especially if you haven’t equipped the right gear. Fortunately, with a little planning, you can avoid this problem, and get the most from your adventures on two feet.

Think Function Over Fashion – But Not Instead Of It

There are several practical differences between modern sportswear and the kinds of clothes you might wear on a day-to-day basis. Of these, arguably, the most important is breathability. If you’re exercising, then you’ll want moisture to be able to flow away from your skin. This way, you’ll be comfortable, even while you’re ascending a gruelling slope.

Loose-fit linen, woven bamboo, and technical fabrics of the kind you find in replica football shirts: these all work well, and will allow you to stroll from place to place while still looking the part when you settle down for dinner. You don’t need to sacrifice style in order to look your best!

Stay Fresh on the Move

While you’re moving from place to place, you might not have access to a shower or changing facilities. For this reason, it’s worth taking a small bag of toiletries, so that you can stay fresh. These might include facial mists, dry shampoos, and wet wipes.

Pack Footwear You Trust

If you’re going to be spending hours on your feet every day, then you’ll need a pair of boots that are up to the task. This doesn’t always mean going for something heavy and specialized for hiking, but it does mean that flimsy sandals should be ruled out. There’s nothing as likely to ruin your walking tour as a series of blisters. You might upgrade your existing footwear easily, by simply installing the right insoles.

Layer Up for Versatility

You might find that the weather changes over the course of a single day. Madeira walking tours, during summer, might see you walk through thirty-degree heat, before the temperature plummets in the evening.

The way to deal with this is to pack a versatile wardrobe. Bring along a number of lightweight layers, which can be combined easily. Avoid thick ones that are difficult to stuff into your rucksack!

Accessories That Make a Difference

Several accessories can make walking much more enjoyable. During summer, a wide-brimmed hat will prevent the top of your head from burning. You might also don polarised sunglasses to deal with the glare, and a quality lightweight backpack for carrying all of the items you’ll need on a given day.

In Conclusion

You don’t need to go to massive expense and effort to get the best from your walking holiday. Just consider the places you’re going to be walking through, and pack accordingly. What’s required for a ten-day hike through the wilderness might be very different from what’s needed if you’re strolling around the middle of Rome – but in either case, footwear and sun protection will help you to enjoy the break, without suffering any injuries!