- Geordie Hiker
- Instagram: @geordie_hiker
- YoutTube: Geordie_hikers
In this issue, we're thrilled to feature an inspiring conversation with Steph, the adventurous soul behind the popular Instagram handle Geordie_Hiker. Steph's page is a captivating blend of hiking, wild camping, and travel stories that resonate with outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Her stunning photos and engaging videos invite followers to explore the breathtaking landscapes she discovers on her journeys. Join us as we delve into Steph's passion for the great outdoors, and the tips she has for fellow adventurers.
Q. What is one place you haven't explored that you would like to?
A. That’s such a hard question! There’s honestly so many places that I haven’t explored but are on my list. If I had to choose a couple it would be New Zealand, Malaysia and Africa, all for different reasons but they look like ideal adventure holidays!
Q. List your packing list for your camping trips? What's an essential item you can not live without and what's one item that you often see in these types of lists that you feel is overrated/does not need to be packed?
A. Warmth is absolutely key for me, I feel the cold really easily, so I make sure to properly pack a good layering system which includes base layers and insulation, down slippers and hat and gloves. Down slippers are an absolute game changer for camping trips. I also sometimes pack a small hot water bottle which keeps me extra snug!
I’d say entertainment such as books, offline Netflix series and music/speakers on camping trips is personally not needed. I think camping should be about enjoying what’s in front of you and surrounding you, including the sounds of nature, and it’s a great chance to put the phone down and have good conversations around the camp fire.
Q. How did you get into camping/hiking/outdoor activities? & What was the moment you fell in love with outdoor adventuring, and how has it shaped your life since?
A. I’ve always been ‘outdoorsy’, ever since I was a little girl, I was always climbing trees and adventuring, I just loved being outside. When I was 16 I went on a 5 week expedition to Mexico with World Challenge, that opened my eyes to multi-day hikes and adventuring abroad. Then when I was in my early twenties I travelled around Europe for a couple of months and moved to Australia for a year when I was 24, I actually lived in a camper van for 3 months which was hard work NGL haha!
After that, it wasn’t until the pandemic when I lived closed to the Lake District, I discovered the 214 Wainwright fells and that’s when I started documenting my UK adventures on Instagram. I had no idea where it would take me but I’m so grateful for the decision to set up an adventure Instagram!
Q. Can you describe a time when things didn't go as planned on an adventure, and what it taught you about adaptability and resilience?
A. I was in the Isle of Skye on a solo trip, I had slept in my car overnight and planned to hike to Sgurr na Stri, supposedly one of the best view points in the UK! The hike takes you around a coastal path and I remember it being rainy weather, I didn’t see another sole and I had no phone signal, there was a few slips due to the slippery rocks and I just remember being in my own head and thinking if anything happens to me, I have no signal and no one knows exactly where I am. Nothing bad happened, but I made the decision to turn back around 5 miles in, I was probably so close to reaching the top but it honestly isn’t worth it if you don’t feel safe.
The mountains will always be there and I can easily go back with my partner to tick it off. The one thing I always do after that trip is to tell someone exactly where I’m going and my estimated finish time which gives you that extra peace of mind.
Q.What’s one piece of advice you would give to people who are deciding to document and share their outdoor adventures online?
A. Do it! Don’t even think about it just do it! What have you got to lose? I’d say just be your authentic self, don’t try to be like another account that you think might be getting lots of interaction, the algorithm is always changing and what works for another account might not work for you. Authenticity is always best!
Q. Are there any books, documentaries, or resources you'd recommend to someone wanting to deepen their understanding and skills in outdoor adventuring?
A. At the moment I’m watching Robson Green’s weekend escapes which is giving me all the inspo for Northumberland adventures. YouTube is your friend for any outdoor skills but other than that, you learn as you go! Once you have the navigational side cracked, I think the biggest skill is confidence. I always tell people to start with a short but popular hike so you know there’ll be plenty of people around if you need to ask for directions etc, and research, research, research! I used to spend hours comparing routes, start and finish locations but it gives you that extra peace of mind of feeling prepared.
There’s also some amazing navigational courses all over the country.
