3 silent trekking fears no one tells you about (and how to overcome them)

When you decide to embark on a long-distance, multi-day route, such as any of the Trans-Pyrenees, it is normal to feel "butterflies in your stomach". But beyond the initial excitement, there are some silent fears that many hikers are reluctant to admit out loud. Beginners and veterans alike experience these uncertainties, and here's how to deal with them so that nothing stops your next trek.

Fear No. 1: Running out of money halfway along the route.

In your head it looked great, economical minimalism, but too many days away from home saps the strongest of wallets. And yours is already starting to suffer. You can't help but wonder if your pocket will hold out for the whole trip. No matter how many calculations you make, unexpected expenses always crop up. Here are three strategies for different budgets:

• Minimalist: Tent, free shelters and own food. Less than 30 euros a day, but sacrificing comforts and some "social" experiences. The problem can be loneliness. Recommendation: every few days spend a night in a shelter, it will help with comfort, plus it will allow you to socialise more with other trekkers.
• Moderate: Hostels, sheltered shelters and the occasional luxury in a town you pass through - like a pizza in a picturesque village. Between 50-60 euros per day, balancing comfort and expense.
• Comfortable luxury: Hotels, frequent restaurants and additional services. More expensive, ideal for those who value relaxation and absolute comfort, and are not so much looking at their wallet.

Key advice: Add an additional 30% to your estimated budget. This financial cushion will save you from unforeseen events and allow you to give yourself that "treat" that will revitalise your motivation in critical moments.

Fear #2: Losing logistical control

The obsession with controlling every detail of the route can become a constant source of stress. The reality is simple: plans often fall through the cracks.

Tips on how to better manage uncertainty:

• Book in advance only at hotspots (key shelters in high season).
• Leave open spaces to improvise and adapt to weather changes or unforeseen events.
• Take advantage of applications such as Wikiloc or Mapy to plan, but always with flexibility.

The real adventure begins when you accept that not everything can be predicted and you are willing to improvise with calm and good cheer.

Fear #3: Running out of transport (and having to hitchhike)

Perhaps the least recognised fear, but one of the most real: hitchhiking, which is often unavoidable if we arrive at a place where there is no public transport. But it is often the only viable option to get off the road.

Tips for safe hitchhiking:

• Whenever possible, hitchhike with a companion.
• It chooses regular spots known to hikers and locals.
• Send the vehicle registration number to a trusted contact.
• Trust your intuition; if something doesn't add up, wait for the next car or ask to get off.

LegalityIn the Article 125 of the General Road Traffic Regulations sets out hitchhiking is forbidden on motorways and highways.

Embrace the uncertainty as part of the adventure and be prepared to discover that the most incredible experiences often come when you step out of your comfort zone. So pack your backpack, put one foot in front of the other and let the road do the rest.