Wondering What to Pack for the Trek!
Trekking is a thrilling activity that lets you explore stunning scenery and establish a connection with nature. But, particularly if it’s your very first trek, packing might be an intimidating task. What to pack for the trek is a pivotal part of the travel plan.
When I first started my travel journey in April 2022, I was naive and did not know what to pack for the trek. Eventually as you start your travel journey you tend to realize the needs as per the altitude and number of days you’ll be travelling. I did a couple of trek without proper gears now after more than one year of travelling I have collected most the gears that is essential for travelling.
One must have the proper knowledge of what to pack for the trek before embarking to any journey. So, the following things should be considered before making any travel plan.
What to pack for the trek?
Clothes:
- Base layers that soak away moisture
- Fleece or down coats for protection at higher altitudes
- Rain jacket for protection against rain
- Quick-drying shorts and light pants
- Under garments
- Warm, cozy, and comfy trekking socks that wick away moisture to avoid blisters.
- Hiking Boots should be sturdy, waterproof, and have decent ankle support.
- A pair of slipper
- Sun hat, Sun glasses
- Cozy gloves
A bag pack
- A comfortable, well-fitting backpack with movable straps and hip belts.
- A bag cover
Gear:
- Trekking poles: Improve balance, ease strain
- A sleeping bag that is suitable for the trek’s anticipated temperatures.
- Flashlights and headlamps for nighttime navigation and early morning beginnings.
Food and Hydration
- Water purification: To make sure that the water is safe to drink, use filters or purification tablets.
- Reusable water bottles are a practical and environmentally friendly way to stay hydrated.
- High-energy snacks: energy bars, Dried fruits such as dates, apricots, raisins
- Oral dehydration Solution (OSR): Electrolytes and Glucose
- High energy snacks such such almond, walnut, dark chocolate etc.
First Aid and Health:
- Basic materials like bandages, and painkillers
- Before using Diamox (for altitude sickness), consult a physician.
- Lip balm and sunscreen
- sanitary products and toilet paper: Bring wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and toilet paper.
Others
- Camera
- Portable charger: Keep your devices powered up on longer treks.
- Travel adapter: Ensure your chargers can be used in the region.
- Trekking permits and identification: Keep your permits and identification handy.
- Carry cash: Many places on treks may not accept cards.
- Maps and guidebook: Useful for navigation and information about the route.
- Reusable bags: Helpful for segregating wet or dirty items.
Annapurna Base Camp | Solo Adventure
If you are going for longer treks, you’ll need to carry extra pair of clothes for changing. Besides that, you’ll need to carry sachet shampoo and liquid soap for washing in order to stay hygiene and travel healthy.
The most important suggestion is if you are travelling to higher altitudes you need to stay hydrated otherwise you’ll end up getting sick so one must drink at least 3 liters of water daily while travelling to higher altitudes.
In order to have a safe and comfortable trekking experience and to fully immerse oneself in the natural beauty of the outdoors, you should have the right equipment and necessities.
Do not rush while travelling. Just relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. Some people tend to over plan which might overwhelm them. So, you need to have patience and enjoy every moment while travelling.
Those of you who are travelling for the first time need not worry regarding what to pack for the trek. Even if you do not have all the required gears you can manage with limited resources and start from the shorter treks. I hope by reading this article you must have got slight idea of what to pack for the trek.
Also Read: Where to get trekking shoes in Nepal.