You must use a backpack rain cover on rainy days
Most people are familiar with backpack rain covers. Those with experience know they only provide partial waterproofing and cannot prevent rain from gradually seeping through the shoulder straps and back. They are also prone to damage or loss. In comparison, packing your gear inside a large plastic bag offers better waterproof protection and is more convenient and cost-effective.
You must wear hiking boots for hiking
Hiking boots are indeed designed for hiking, but there are many different types. Some may be slippery on regular trails, and certain off-road models are closer to everyday casual or running shoes. Many long-distance hikers prefer lightweight running shoes—they’re light, breathable, and easy to wash and dry during trips. If long hikes don’t always require hiking boots, why must short hikes?
Waterproof breathable jackets prevent internal dampness
Outdoor rain jackets often come with high expectations. They’re more expensive than regular raincoats and emphasize breathability, so you’d expect 100% comfort during hiking, right? In reality, current technology means that waterproof-breathable performance is highly dependent on the environment. In Taiwan’s humid conditions, even when wearing a waterproof breathable jacket in heavy rain, you may still experience “heavy rain outside, light rain inside” conditions.
Carrying less gear is more dangerous
This is similar to the old belief that “ultralight = dangerous.” Carrying more items doesn’t necessarily make you safer, and carrying less doesn’t automatically mean more risk. In fact, bringing unnecessary gear can increase danger. For typical hiking accidents like slipping off cliffs, the weight you carry is one of the most significant factors affecting safety.
You can casually dispose of food waste and fruit peels outdoors
While most people carry out their trash when hiking, some assume that natural waste like fruit peels can decompose on its own. Over a very long time frame, occasional disposal might be acceptable, but in most cases, natural decomposition cannot keep up with the rate of disposal. In particular, in cold high-altitude environments, any foreign matter becomes a burden to the ecosystem.
If you get lost, follow the river downstream to find an exit
Following a river downstream can be one way to descend and, in gentler terrains, may serve as a route indicator. However, in Taiwan’s steep and fast-flowing mountainous environment, following streams downstream often leads to dangerous terrain. Without proper equipment, crossing these areas is nearly impossible, increasing the risk of slips and other accidents.
