Sand Hiking Made Easy: Tips, Tricks, and Gear You Need

Finally, we’ve got some rain here in Germany! After nearly two months of barely any, it’s definitely a welcome sight. Of course, that means the mud from the dogs is starting up again — but honestly, it’s still better than having sand everywhere.

Speaking of sand, today I want to share some tips and tricks I’ve picked up from multi-day hikes on sand dunes and sandy trails on the Fishermen’s Trail in Portugal. Hopefully, these will come in handy for anyone planning to tackle sandy terrain.

Today’s Roundup:

• Gear Tips for Hiking in Sand (Particularly Fishermen’s Trail)

• Hiking Tips for Sand

• Video 👉 Austria’s Olpererhutte Suspension bridge hike

Welcome to your next Adventure! Each week, we demystify the confusing logistics of walking and hiking holidays in Europe by offering quick hiking and training tips, sharing experiences and highlighting hidden travel destinations. If you were forwarded this message, you can receive the free weekly email here.

Equipment For Hiking in Sand

Walking on sandy trails can be tricky, and super annoying. Prepare for slower pacing and dealing with sand in your footwear. It's also more challenging on your Achilles' tendon than harder surfaces.

Gear to Make Sandy Hikes Easier

• Keep sand out of your shoes with: low lightweight gaiters

• Avoid blisters with: moisture wicking socks

• Keep blowing sand out of your face with: a buff

• Protect your eyes with: wrap around cat 3 or higher sunglasses

• Stay cool with: a ventilated backpack

• Stabilize ankles and knees with: trekking poles

Sand Hiking & Training Tips

Beyond the basic equipment, there are a few additional tips and considerations specific to hiking in sand that can help improve your experience:

1. Choose Firmer Sand When Possible
   Walking closer to the waterline on beaches or in areas where the sand is moist tends to be easier because the sand is firmer and less energy-intensive to walk on. This also helps reduce the risk of ankle rolling.

2. Train Your Muscles
   Hiking on sand requires more effort because your feet sink and slip, engaging different muscles than typical trail hiking. Training by walking or running on sand beforehand can help build the necessary strength and endurance.

3. Plan for Temperature Extremes or Wind
   Sand can get extremely hot during the day, so plan hikes during cooler parts of the day (early morning or late afternoon) to avoid heat exhaustion and burns on exposed skin or feet.

4. Protect Your Ankles
   Sand is unstable and uneven, increasing the risk of ankle sprains. Wearing supportive footwear and possibly ankle braces can help, as well as using trekking poles for balance.

5. Expect Slower Pace and Increased Effort
   Because sand shifts underfoot, expect your hiking pace to be slower and your energy expenditure higher. Factor this into your planning for distance and water needs.

6. Keep Sand Out of Your Gear
   Sand can get into zippers, electronics, and other gear causing damage or inconvenience. Use sealable plastic bags or dry sacks inside your backpack to protect sensitive items.

7. Navigation
   Sand dunes and beaches often lack clear landmarks, so bring a reliable GPS device or map and compass, and be prepared for limited shade or shelter.

Incorporating these sand-specific considerations along with the right gear will make your sand hiking safer and more enjoyable.

Austria’s Most Famous Suspension Bridge Hike

This day hike is one of Austria’s most famous, and we chose to go in September to avoid the crowds — it was absolutely spectacular.

We even brought along some of those pesky flying dresses (which were quite heavy to carry up the trail) to capture some fun, girly photos.

I definitely recommend staying overnight at the Olpererhütte or Dominikushütte huts if you can, rather than driving up the same day. This way, you’ll beat the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.

It’s so beautiful — you simply have to go!

• ⚡️ Olpererhutte Austria September Hike Video

And if you are on Youtube, please help me out by liking and subscribing to the channel to help it grow in the algo.

🚀 In case you missed it: 👉 Dolomites Hut to Hut Hiking Trip Available for 2025 on Alta Via 1

Happy hiking, and I hope to inspire you to explore the beauty of Europe’s trails!

Let’s see how this trail unfolds…

x-Morgan