How to Be a Hiking Influencer: A Practical Guide to Turning Your Trail Time into a Brand

Becoming a hiking influencer sounds like a dream job. You're out in nature, exploring mountains, sharing your journey, and making a living from it. But there's more to it than taking scenic selfies and tagging brands.

If you love the outdoors and you're serious about building a brand around hiking, this guide will walk you through what it really takes—from content creation to making money, staying authentic, and growing your audience over time.

1. Start With Why

Before anything else, ask yourself: why do you want to do this?

If your only answer is "free gear" or "followers," you're going to burn out. Fast. The people who make it in this space have one thing in common: they genuinely love the outdoors and care about the stories they tell.

Start because you want to document your hikes, inspire others to go outside, or share real tips that help beginners. That kind of honesty shows.

The outdoors doesn’t care how many followers you have—your gear either works, or it doesn’t. That’s where Militarykart comes in.

We stock field-tested hiking gear that’s built for real conditions. Whether you need a high-lumen tactical flashlight, a survival kit that actually fits in your pack, or a hammock system that keeps bugs and rain out—you’ll find gear that’s tough, practical, and ready for your next trail.

Don’t just look the part. Hike prepared.

🛒 Shop Hiking Essentials at Militarykart

"Hiking" is a broad niche. To stand out, you need to find a unique take. Here are a few angles that work:

• Solo female hiking
• Minimalist gear + ultralight tips
• Fitness-focused trail content
• Family-friendly hikes
• Long-distance trails + through-hiking
• Wildlife photography on hikes
• Mental health and hiking

Pick one or two and build around that. It gives people a reason to follow you.

3. Build a Content Routine

You don't need fancy equipment to get started. Your phone, natural light, and consistency are enough.

Platforms to focus on:

• Instagram: For reels, stories, and photo journals
• YouTube: For long-form vlogs, gear reviews, tutorials
• TikTok: Quick tips, trail fails, packing hacks
• Blog: SEO-friendly space for in-depth guides and affiliate links

Content types to create:

• Trail reviews
• Packing lists
• Gear breakdowns
• Real moments (sore feet, failed hikes, bad weather)
• Educational tips (navigation, layering, Leave No Trace)

Document, don’t perform. Be honest and useful.

4. Monetize Your Hikes

This part takes time, but here are real ways hiking influencers make money:

a. Brand Partnerships

Outdoor brands are always looking for micro and nano influencers who feel relatable. Don’t wait for them to come to you. Once you have a few thousand engaged followers, reach out with a clear pitch.

b. Affiliate Marketing

Recommend gear you actually use. Use platforms like Amazon Associates or join programs like REI, Backcountry, or even niche stores like Militarykart. Write or film gear reviews with trackable links.

c. YouTube Ad Revenue

If you build a YouTube channel and stay consistent, AdSense revenue can become a steady stream. Combine it with affiliate links in your video descriptions.

d. Sell Digital Products

Offer trail guides, packing lists, or beginner hiking courses as low-cost digital downloads.

e. Photography Licensing

Sell your photos to travel brands, stock photo sites, or use them as prints.

f. Speaking Engagements + Events

If you build a reputation, local outdoor brands or events may invite you for workshops, panels, or community events.

g. Guided Hikes / Retreats

Turn your knowledge into offline value. Lead small groups or offer nature retreats once you build trust.

5. Stay Authentic. Always.

It’s tempting to fake it. But people can tell. The influencers who last are the ones who:

• Show real struggles, not just the views
• Disclose partnerships and affiliate links
• Keep learning and sharing
• Give more than they take

You don’t need to be a pro hiker. You just need to be real, helpful, and consistent.

6. Gear Up Smart (Not Expensive)

Don’t fall into the trap of thinking you need to buy the most expensive gear to be a "real" hiker. Instead, focus on what you use regularly and can genuinely recommend.

Tip: Partner with emerging brands who are looking for raw, honest feedback—not polished influencers. Platforms like Militarykart offer practical gear that’s functional and made for people who actually hike.

7. Manage the Unseen Work

Influencing is more than hikes and posts. You’ll need to learn basic:

• Photo editing (Lightroom, Snapseed)
• Video editing (CapCut, Final Cut, or Premiere)
• Copywriting
• SEO and hashtags
• Email pitching to brands

Treat it like a small business, not just a passion. Set a schedule. Track what works. Be professional with brands.

Final Thought: It’s a Long Hike, But a Rewarding One

Being a hiking influencer won’t make you rich overnight. But if you love the trail, are patient with your growth, and keep showing up, it can become something sustainable.

Keep walking. Keep sharing. And always pack smart.

Looking for reliable outdoor gear to start your journey? Explore field-tested kits and tools at Militarykart.