Packing list for hiking is an essential component of a trip and here we are going to list out what to pack for a successful trek in the Himalayas. Especially if you are a newbie. If you have been bitten by a travel bug and wish to hike soon, it is always advisable to make a checklist of essential items for a successful trip. Backpacking trips to some remote locations will help unwind the constant pressure of always being available for everyone. It will also give you the courage to handle responsibilities to test your limits. Trekking in the wilderness has always rejuvenated the lost energy of monotonously hardworking souls, indeed.
Go solo or plan with your travel mates. It is perhaps the best way to celebrate and enjoy life. As people say, nature heals and nature brings out the best in you even when you aren’t ready for it. To start it off, the goal isn’t just reaching the destination with swollen legs and an empty stomach. To make it worse, if you are a rookie traveller, you might end up with a 33-lb (15 kg) backpack for an overnight hike and without a plan.
Packing List for a Successful Trekking Trip:
Wondering where to start? Avoid cramped legs and being lost in the middle of nowhere without a standby plan. As referenced by frequent backpackers and professional mountain climbers, this packing list for hiking will certainly help you to hike like a pro. The essentials you should bring are:
1. Right Hiking Boots:
Choosing the correct hiking boots is the primary diligence to ensure a comfortable and safe hiking experience. Make sure, you have the correct size that offers enough room to wiggle your toes. Oh yeah! Don’t forget to wear and pack proper socks too.
Know your pace and settle into your natural rhythm, since enjoyable hiking depends on stamina, not speed.
2. Map and Compass/GPS:
As old-fashioned as it may seem, you must carry a map and a compass or satellite GPS all the time. Yes, offline maps and various apps can be great resources, but you need to be prepared for the chances of a lack of reception or a dead battery, especially if you have thought of trekking in Nepal in the future.
3. Food and Water:
When it comes to hiking, staying well-hydrated and eating well are equally substantial. Travel with foods that are high in energy, compact and easy to cook. If you are planning for a multi-day hike, it is advisable to carry a portable water filter or a purifying solution to treat water from outdoor sources.
4. Rain Gear and Quick-drying Layers:
Weather is as unpredictable as a mood swing. Agree? We can never be sure of the weather forecasts, especially in the mountains. Hence, it is better to hike with essential gear where a versatile, lightweight and breathable rain jacket is the saviour.
5. Safety Elements:
As an assurance of your safety, don’t forget to carry a small flashlight, a whistle and a lighter. These are for the extreme situations you might find yourself in. In case of emergency, be alert and if you’re going to start a fire, you must be aware of the rightfulness of doing so while considering the environmental conditions.
6. First Aid Kit:
Accidents happen when we least expect them. And when it does, having a basic first aid kit is a requisite. The Red Cross has a list of easy-to-find items to stock up on your essential kits. Add on your specific needs, whether that’s a prescribed medication, Odomus, Pepto Bismol, or just some extra Band-Aids.
7. Sun Protection:
Sunscreens are underrated! Every hiker or mountain climber who’s been victim to dark spots and tan lines will advise you to apply enough and suitable sunscreen before you begin your hike with a hat and sunglasses, even when it’s cloudy. It is a must!
8. Shelter:
If you are going for a multi-day hike, make sure that you are well-informed about lodging facilities and have a camp or lodge reservation before the trip. Just in case, carry a space blanket for emergencies.
9. A Trash Bag:
Hiking to remote places is rewarding, personally and communally as well. You are contributing to the economic and social life of the people living in that area. It is a win-win state of play for all. So, make sure you carry your trash off the trail with you. Even better, you can contribute to collecting the trash and be amazed at how much you can help for a tidier trail.
What Should I Wear on a Hike?
Confused about what to wear on the trail? Firstly, decide how long you are going to hike. Is it a 3 to 4 hours hike or more than 6 hours? Make sure your clothes are comfortable and well-suited for the journey. Next, consider doing a little research on the ecosystem of the trail. Is it for a higher altitude region or at sea level? Is it dry or humid? Then, check the weather forecast, although you can’t fully depend, you sure can anticipate.
1. Choosing Appropriate Layers:
You can go with a base layer of a comfortable T-shirt or a tank top, mid-layer with a lightweight jacket, fleece or a long-sleeve t-shirt and a top breathable wind/rain shell. If you are planning to hike to a colder destination, upgrade your layers accordingly as choosing layers highly depends on the weather of the destination.
2. Choosing Appropriate Fabrics:
You need to completely avoid buying cotton if you are planning for a hike or trek. Owing to its nature, you will feel sweaty in warm weather and get chills in the cold as cotton absorbs and retains water.
Then, what type of fabric should I choose? You can go for synthetics as it is commonly available, and allow airflows and movement. Or you can opt for eco-friendly merino wool instead. Rest assured, it is not scratchy! It is fully natural, soft against your skin, and decreases odour. Also, fleece made from recycled materials is a great option.
Tips for What to Pack for a Successful Trek Gear:
You do not wish to struggle with a broken zip and heavyweight in the middle of nowhere. So, just like your shoes and clothes, you need to carry a backpack with a perfect fit. While packing your bag, make sure you can handle the weight and access your necessities without any difficulties.
Quick Tips:
- For a comfortable and balanced hiking experience, keep the heavier items in your backpack, in the centre and close to your back while the lighter ones can fill in the space around the heavier items.
- Don’t over-pack and also don’t underprepare when it comes to packing. You need to find the perfect balance between them. It only comes when you are well-informed and well-prepared for the trip.
- Keep things like water, snacks, phone, sunscreen and extra layers where you can easily reach, rather than submerged at the bottom of the bag.
