Trek essentials – For people to venture on their own.
While on a trek, whether you are doing an alpine way or through any trek guiding organizers, there are few basic essentials that are very much needed on the trek, it is important that you make a checklist of all the gear that would be needed based on the terrain and the conditions, one should never go out without preparing for the unexpected as treks are for long days and harsh outdoor conditions, so it is always advised to go prepared. On a routine trip you may use only a few of them, it is important to carry all the essentials in list irrespective of their usage. Listed here are few trek essentials that should be carried.
Navigation
- For Navigation one should carry a topographic map of the region intended to trek. A map helps you with the details of the terrain you are venturing into, a compass along with it helps in the directions.
- A Compass with a good map reading knowledge is important that allows you to keep you on the right track
- These days some rely on the GPS receivers which makes life little easier with the position/coordinates and navigation, the problem of GPS is they rely on batteries and not always a major bet on your venture, therefore a humble and classic compass that weighs little could be your best bet to depend on which also comes with mirrors which can be used to reflect flash for a rescue.
Camp and Kitchen Gear
- A good Pair of high grip rubber Trekking boots with good ankle support, cushioning and should be waterproof, No Sneakers.
- A pair of gaiters that would help in keeping slush, snow, dirt which may enter your boot, its used to cover the ankle and lower leg. Gaiters would be useless if they are not worn properly, ensure they are pulled down around the boot and tightened to form a seal.
- A good Backpack to carry all your trek essentials.
- Tent/Tarp a good shelter system based on the terrain you are venturing into.
- Sleeping Bag to give warmth and some quality sleep.
- Sleeping Pad for thermal insulation.
- Based on the technicality of the terrain there are few other gears needed like Trekking Poles, Ice Axes, Ropes, Carabineers, Gaiters, Crampons.
- Camping Stove and fuel a good camping stove which is durable and carry sufficient fuel to last your time in the wilderness.
- Cooking pot, utensils with spatula and pot grips it would be easier to handle cooking outdoors with these.
- Dishes and Cup for eating/drinking.
- Water treatment, boiling is the best way to treat water, there are few filters and other alternatives available in the market these days, and we recommend Aquamira drops (Read instructions before it is used).
- Hydration system or Water bottles a water bladder is more convenient for your venture.
- Rations – Try and procure dry rations, organize and calculate the right amount of nutrition and rations needed to keep you energized for your trip. Carry things that are easier to cook and healthy.
- Some extra foodstuff for energy during treks like Chocolate Bars, Dry Fruits.
- Lighter/matches/fire starter for starting a fire.
- Lightweight or Nylon cord to hang food (protect from bears) away from the campsite and other uses.
Safety Essentials
- A First Aid kit which should consist of the following (link) for emergencies.
- Knife/Multi-tool.
- Whistle.
- Identification band with Name, Address, Blood group, Allergy and Emergency contact.
- Repair Kit and duct tape to repair minor repairs in clothing or camp gears.
- For lighting, one should carry a Head Lamp or a torch with Extra Batteries.
- Sunscreen/Lip balm/Insect repellent to prevent sunburns and insect bites.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Clothing (for warm/cold) conditions.
- Quick dry T-Shirts/Long-sleeved.
- Hiking pants/Soft-shell pants for colder conditions.
- Quick dry Underwear/Thermals or base layer upper and lower
- Sun Hat
- A good pair of woolen socks, an additional pair of socks used only for the night.
- An insulating top (down feather) jacket to keep you warm at a campsite.
- For protection against rain and wind a Wind stopper, Rain Jacket, Rain Coat and Pant, Poncho, Umbrella.
- Warm cap/Balaclava.
- Gloves warm and waterproof.
Personal Items and other items
- For Toiletries Tissue Paper, Towel, Hand Sanitizer, Eco-Friendly Soaps, Liquid soap bottle and Paste. Sanitary napkins for women.
- Apart from the above trek essentials, it is optional to carry the following items like Camera, Binoculars, Outdoor journal, pen/pencil, Cell Phone, Two Way Radio, Floaters, Solar Powered Charger, Altimeter or any other communication devices.
- Trek Permits/Route description and Permissions.
- Backpack covers
- Bear spray if the areas are bear-prone.
- Carry few Waterproof Covers and Zip Lock plastics for protecting your sleeping bags or electronics.
- A small amount of cash.
- Inform about your trip Itinerary to a friend or family to be contacted in case of emergency.
- Bag for collecting trash.