Which ‘expert’ is in your group?
Every hiking group has one.
The one who says, “We’re almost there,” with absolutely no evidence.
The one who checked the weather yesterday.
The one who thinks Google Maps works everywhere.
The one who packs confidence instead of water.
The funny part is we’ve probably all been at least one of these people.
The good news? Most hiking mistakes are completely preventable if you recognize them before they become problems.
That’s why I make all these hiking tip videos, so that we can all hike a little smarter.
Now, which one is your hiking partner… or… which one are YOU?
Hiking with a group can be an incredible experience, but it also comes with unique challenges. I've definitely been in hikes where someone confidently says, “We’re almost there,” without any real proof—only to realize the trail still stretches far ahead. It's so common to rely on yesterday's weather forecast or trust our phones blindly, yet mountain weather and signal coverage can change rapidly. One time, my group was relying solely on Google Maps, and we found ourselves off-trail because the app didn’t update recent path closures. That taught me to always carry a physical map and compass as backups. Another lesson learned: confidence can’t replace essentials like water. I've seen experienced hikers underestimate hydration needs because they felt sure the water sources were nearby, which isn’t always true. Recognizing these habits—whether in your friends or yourself—can prevent many mishaps. Before every hike, I recommend double-checking weather forecasts the morning of, packing adequate water regardless of confidence, and familiarizing yourself with the terrain through reputable trail guides. Remember, hiking smarter means being prepared for the unexpected and supporting each other to stay safe as a team. So next time you hit the trail, think about which “expert” you’re hiking with and whether you’re ready to tackle those common mistakes head-on.