Feel like getting out and about this weekend? Going for a walk in the countryside is a great way to get some exercise, blow off some steam and take in some nature. And you can reward yourself at the end with a stop at a country pub too.
With that in mind, we’ve rounded up a few routes to try. And we’ve chosen a load of walk-friendly tech and handy apps to make your walk a super one, no matter where your feet take you.
Getting prepped for your walk
Water at the ready
It’s especially important to stay hydrated in the heat. Otherwise you’ll end up feeling tired, achy and generally not your best. But if you’re only drinking when you’re thirsty, you could be already dehydrated.
So why not try a smart water bottle, like this Hidrate Spark Steel Smart Water Bottle. Just sync the bottle with an app on your phone that has your age, weight, gender and workout plan (like the walk you’re going on). Then it gives you personalised reminders of when to drink and how much. Hydration heaven!
Walk smart
Whether you’re walking for fitness or just enjoying the great outdoors, a smart watch can be a big help. So before you set off, strap on a Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 or an Apple Watch Series 7. You can track your step count, monitor your heartrate, see how many calories you’re burning and even get a mini-map. But it also keeps you connected hands free. No digging into your backpack every time your phone pings!
And don't forget to stay smart after your walk is finished too. A sports massage can be great for recovery, especially after more intense uphill hikes. That's where an at-home massage like this Theragun can really come in handy.
Get apped up
If getting lost in a field full of cows doesn't appeal, make sure you don't leave the house without apps that make navigating the countryside a breeze.
AllTrails
This one's great when you want to get off the beaten track. AllTrails features 300,000 detailed and clearly marked maps. It'll even warn you when you're straying onto private land - so you won't go wrong. Don't worry about a mobile signal either. As it uses GPS, it'll make sure you're heading in the right direction. It's free, but there are also pro features like being able to download maps or an alert when you've taken a wrong turn.
Met Office
No matter what time of year it is, it's always vital to keep an eye on the British weather. You’ll get extreme weather alerts, hourly updates, rainfall maps and there are even warnings when the pollen count is high too. And if the plan is to conquer a peak, there are mountain weather forecasts too.
Google Maps
While Google Maps is generally better for towns or walking in parks, it's still a great app for a day out. If you're heading out intothe countryside on public transport, it gives you an easy guide to local train and bus times. And of course you can search locally for that perfect country pub or cafe at the end of your walk.
Tip:
The problem with the countryside? Not enough plug sockets. So we'd recommend throwing a power bank into your backpack too. Why not try this BELKIN 10000 mAh Portable Power Bank? Not only does it support rapid charging, but it can power up 4 smartphones.
