How to Avoid Blisters when Hiking

Blisters are a common and serious problem when backpacking or hiking. Learn how to prepare for and avoid the onset of blisters so that your backpacking trip can be a safe and enjoyable one. You need to pay attention to the basics--footwear and socks--to keep your feet blister-free.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Make sure your hiking boots fit comfortably and are broken in before a long hike. Take several weeks to break the boots in by wearing them on trails with the same socks you'll wear on the longer hike.

2. Wear good, thick socks with your hiking boots. Thin, cheap socks wear out and give you blisters. Be sure to fit new boots with the same thickness of sock you'll wear when hiking. Thick wool socks lift sweat away from your feet and help them stay dry.

3. Remove any rocks that get inside your boots while hiking. Even small rocks can cause blisters if left inside the boots for any length of time.

4. Dry out socks when taking breaks by removing boots and letting socks air out for a while. Doing this two or three times a day will help keep the socks dry.

5. Carry a small first aid kit with you while hiking. Include blister pads and adhesive bandages, and apply as soon as you notice some rubbing. The sooner this is done, the less chance you have of forming a blister.

6. Change into a dry pair of socks if you find that your socks are very wet during hiking breaks. Preventing blisters is easier than treating them.

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