How do you prepare for a long walk in the cold?

A long walk on a cold, clear winter's day is a delight. Crunching grass, low sunlight, and a warm drink halfway through. But without proper preparation, that same day can quickly turn into cold hands, wet feet, and an early trip home.

With a little planning, it doesn't have to be that way. Here is how to prepare for a long walk in the cold.

Plan your route around daylight

In winter, the days are short. In December, it is already dark in the Netherlands before four-thirty. Therefore, plan your route so that you are back well before sunset, allowing extra time for breaks and slippery patches.

Also, let someone know what route you are taking and what time you expect to be back. This is not unnecessary caution, especially if you are heading out alone or walking through a quiet area.

Look beyond the temperature

Check the weather forecast before you leave, and don't just look at the temperature. Wind makes a big difference. At a few degrees below zero with a strong wind, it feels much colder than the thermometer indicates.

Also, look at precipitation and ice conditions. Wet snow or freezing rain require different clothing and footwear than a dry, cold day.

Start feeling slightly cool

It sounds contradictory, but it is better to start feeling slightly cool. After ten minutes of walking, you will already be much warmer. If you start bundled up, you will start sweating, and sweat will make you cold later on.

Dress in layers so you can adjust along the way. A moisture-wicking base layer, a warm mid-layer, and a windproof and waterproof jacket form the foundation.

Good shoes and socks

On a long walk, your feet are everything. Choose shoes that are waterproof and have good grip, especially on wet or snowy paths. On ice, spikes or snow chains for your shoes can make a big difference.

Wear warm, well-fitting socks. Socks or shoes that are too tight restrict circulation, which will make you get cold faster. If you are going on a long trek, consider bringing a dry pair.

Eating and drinking on the way

In the cold, you are less likely to feel thirsty, but your body still loses fluids. Bring a thermos with tea, broth, or hot chocolate. It warms you from the inside out and is simply enjoyable.

Your body also uses more energy to stay warm. So, bring enough food. Nuts, a sandwich, or a chocolate bar will keep your temperature up and keep you going.

Smart breaks

A break feels wonderful after a vigorous walk, but you cool down quickly when sitting still. Therefore, put on an extra layer as soon as you stop, before you start feeling cold.

Preferably keep breaks in the winter short, and find a spot out of the wind. A bench behind a hedge or a forest edge makes a big difference.

Keep your hands warm

Hands are the first to cool down in the cold. Wear well-insulated gloves and don't keep taking them off to use your phone. Every time you do that, you lose warmth that is difficult to regain.

Are you going on a really long hike, or do your hands get cold easily? Then heated gloves are a solution. You can turn the heat up during a break and down again when you continue walking.

Bring a light

Even if you aim to be back well in time, a walk can run over. A wrong turn or a slippery slope can quickly take extra time. Therefore, bring a small headlamp. It weighs almost nothing and provides peace of mind if it gets dark earlier than planned.

Your phone and the cold

Batteries don't like the cold. A phone can run out of power much faster than normal at low temperatures. Therefore, keep your phone in an inside pocket, close to your body, and start with a full battery.

After the walk

Once home, the temptation is great to collapse on the couch immediately. First, put on dry clothes, especially if your base layer is damp with sweat. This way you warm up faster and more comfortably.

Set your shoes to dry at room temperature, not directly on the heater, and remove the insoles if possible. Do the same with your gloves so everything is ready for the next trip.

Frequently asked questions

Should you also drink enough in the cold?

Yes. You notice it less, but you still lose fluids in winter, including through your breathing. A warm drink in a thermos makes staying hydrated a lot more appealing.

What do you do in case of ice?

Walk calmly, with small steps, and choose paths with grip where possible. Spikes or snow chains for under your shoes help a lot on ice.

How long can you walk in the cold?

That depends on your fitness, clothing, and the weather. With good preparation, a day hike is perfectly doable. If you notice you are shivering or your fingers are becoming numb, head indoors and warm up gradually.

In conclusion

A long winter walk requires a bit more preparation than a summer trip. Plan around daylight, dress in layers, keep your feet dry and your hands warm.

Then it will remain exactly what it should be: a wonderful day out in the fresh winter air.