Backpacking is one of the most exciting recreations but can be risky. One must choose wisely of contents in the backpack as it is very helpful and pretty important for one’s health and hygiene. The 12 essentials for backpacking consist of a list that is critical and essential as insurance against unexpected when you are planning for your much-awaited Backpacking Trip.
Eye Protection:
Healthy eyes are critical for safe backcountry travel. Proper consideration of sun protection for your eyes is of utmost importance. The eyes can experience damage from the intensity of mountain skies, ultraviolet rays, etc.
As one Travels through the country on varied landscapes and on higher altitudes the intensity of ultraviolet rays also increases. Therefore, protecting your eye is a must. So make sure you are carrying Sunglasses with you.
First-Aid Kit:
First aid supplies for minor injuries are a must. One should carry bandages, antiseptics, paracetamols, a pair of scissors, cotton, basic medicines, etc. Carrying a first aid is very essential as it provides basic medical care in case of any mishap.
A lot of travelers do not carry first-aid kit so you can also help out someone in need.
Flashlight / Headlamp:
One must carry a flashlight/headlamp on the backpacking trip whether a day trip or night trip as is one of the essentials to carry. One never knows where one might need to spend the night.
Flashlight/Headlamp plays a very important role in finding a path at night in case of emergency such as loss of direction etc. One must always choose lights that are water-resistant and are functionally reliable in all weather conditions, always carry extra batteries along with lights.
Make it a point to also carry a small lightweight hand-held light in addition to a headlamp. A small light can be used for simple camp chores.
Extra Food
One must carry extra food even if it a day trip in case one gets delayed due to foul weather, or miss the path. Mountaineers carry at least one-day supply for any trek/camp. The food should require little or no cooking. Food items such as Biscuits, instant noodles, light snacks, chocolates, etc.
Extra Clothing
A backpack must contain a pair of extra clothes, bed sheets, tissue roll which would get you through unplanned worst conditions one might experience.
Camera
A camera is a must for any trip to capture memories during the journey. All the experiences, environments, moments can be beautifully captured and cherished for life with the help of a camera.
Trekking or camping is a lifetime experience and each one is different from others hence capturing important moments become lucrative. It is rightly said and believed few things complement each other perfectly like travel and photograph.
Water / Filter / Bottles:
One must carry plenty of freshwater, depending upon the area one is going to travel. One must carry enough water to keep oneself hydrated throughout the journey. Dehydration may cause fatigue & dizziness.
A mixture of Electoral powder or glucose in water will help to keep the energy level maintained throughout the journey. One must also make sure not to drink excess water during travel as it can make one feel more exhausted at times.
Zip Lock Bags
An ingeniously simple and cheap way to keep things like mobile phones and cameras safe is to carry Zip lock bags. For more extreme expeditions River crossing, kayaking, water rappelling, etc it is important to carry waterproof Zip Lock Bags.
Map & Compass
It might seem old school but it is very important to carry a detailed and elaborate map of the location one is going to visit and definitely one of the essentials for your Backpacking Trip. Carrying a map makes you prepare for the trip as well as helps one to know about the place. In case of any emergency, one can always refer to the map to find the path.
It is also lucrative to mark important nearby areas on maps such as hospitals, police stations, nearby villages, etc. This will help to contact with people nearby in case of any emergency. One must also carry a compass on the journey. Carrying a compass makes it easy to follow the map and instructions. Therefore, It is important to learn how a compass works.
Whistle
Whistle is helpful during emergencies like one is lost someone in the group is lost, or hurt and needs help, etc.
Pocket Knife & Tools
Pocket knife and other tools are an integral part of backpacking. It helps to keep one safe in any conditions. These tools can be useful in setting up a tent, cooking, hunting for food, or in any adverse conditions.
Tent / Sleeping Mat /Bag
If one is sure about spending some significant nights, carrying a tent is very important. However, it is advisable if it is one-night camping it is advisable not to carry too much load in the backpack. One can hire a tent depending upon the camping location.
Make sure when you plan next to check this list of 12 essentials for Backpacking trip and you can also check these preplanned Itineraries of Backpacking Trips.
Contributed By: Prachi Shah