Planning and Essential Equipment for Trekking
The success of a trekking experience begins with good planning. A comfortable and properly equipped backpack is essential to ensure safety and well-being during the activity. The selection of necessary gear will depend on various factors: the type of hike, duration (number of days), places where you plan to sleep, the time of year, and the expected weather conditions.
What equipment should I include in my backpack for trekking?
This question is quite personal, as needs and habits vary from person to person. However, I’ll share my perspective on the essential items for a one-day trek or multi-day trek with overnight stays. While the lists may vary according to personal preferences, the fundamental thing is to ensure that the backpack is suited to the hike and includes all the indispensable items for safety, comfort, and managing unforeseen situations.
Backpack for a one-day hike:
- First-aid kit
- Survival kit
- Thermal blanket
- Spare batteries (for GPS)
- Power bank
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Whistle
- Gloves
- Map of the area and compass
- Cap or beanie
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Spare pair of socks
- Tissues
- Plastic bag (for trash)
- Sufficient food and water
- Spare T-shirt
- Poncho or raincoat
- Pocket knife
- Walking poles
- Mosquito repellent
Backpack for two or more days of hiking (with overnight stay):
In addition to the items mentioned for one day, you should include:
- Personal hygiene kit
- Microfiber towel
- Clothing suitable for the season and weather conditions
- Extra pairs of socks (one for each day)
- Lighter or matches
- Sandals or flip-flops (for resting at the end of the day)
- Tent
- Mattress or sleeping pad
- Sleeping bag
- Camping gas and portable stove
- Reusable cup
- Specific technical equipment (like helmet, harness, crampons, or ice axe, depending on the terrain type)
Survival and Trekking Kit: Essential Tips
Survival Kit:
- Thermal blanket: “I always have one in my backpack. It’s lightweight, takes up little space, and is extremely useful, whether to protect from cold or heat.”
- Water purifiers: Tablets or devices that make water potable.
- Other essential items: Spare mobile phone turned off to save battery, spare batteries, duct tape, strong ropes or cords, fire starters and matches, as well as small sugar packets.
First-Aid Kit:
Items may vary depending on the activity, but the basics include:
- Medications: Antibiotics, antidiarrheals, mineral salts, anti-inflammatories (tablets and ointment).«
- Skin care: Suturing strips, moisturizing ointment, various sizes of bandages for blisters, abrasions, and wounds.
- Fundamental materials: Antiseptics, gauze compresses, bandages, surgical blade, tweezers, and scissors.
- High altitudes: Include specific medications for altitude sickness if necessary.
Choosing the Ideal Backpack:
Capacity:
- One-day trekking: Backpacks with a capacity of 20 to 30 liters.
- Multi-day trekking: 45 to 60 liters.
Comfort and functionality:
Opt for a backpack that distributes weight well between the shoulders and hips. Models with a rigid frame, adjustable straps, and a waist belt are recommended.
Padded, anatomical, and ventilated straps are crucial for greater comfort.
Prefer backpacks with accessible pockets and good internal organization.
Waterproofing:
If the backpack is not waterproof, use a rain cover or protect items with sturdy plastic bags (garbage bags also work).
Proper Weight Distribution:
- Total weight: Ideally, the backpack should weigh between 10% and 20% of your body weight.
- Internal organization:Place heavier items at the bottom and close to your back.
- Medium-weight objects should be stored in the middle.
- Lighter and frequently used items should be positioned at the top.
- External pockets: Use them for quick-access objects like a map, headlamp, pocket knife, mobile phone, sunglasses, hat, or gloves.
Final Tip:
The secret to a successful trekking experience is to carry only the essentials and avoid overloading. As experts say: “Simplify as much as possible so that the journey is light and enjoyable.”
