Alone or in a group, on foot, on skis or on a bike – it’s so good to get out in the mountains again. You’re looking forward to covering some ground. But where will you go? What’s the best option? What may seem like a simple case of choosing one of several tempting possibilities, is in actual fact a much more serious, complex process, which needs to be broken down into steps and is determined by various factors. Because planning a tour is an essential skill. It is how you can ensure you have done everything in your power to minimize the risk you and others will be exposed to. Do you know what these steps are and what the determining factors are? Do you check the weather and avalanche reports and know how to interpret them correctly? Can you read the terrain according to a map? Can you tell where any exposed or steep sections will be? No? Well, now’s the time to change that. Because planning and knowing what to consider and in which order, is a key skill for any keen outdoorsperson. Taking a structured approach and following clear rules will help prevent mistakes and could even save lives. Our Basecamp Tour Planning Guide has some useful strategies for planning a ski tour or bike tour.