Adventure is something everyone looks for, specially when it comes to trekking. Since the dawn of social media (Instagram, Flickr and even Facebook) people have been posting about their treks in the form of images and blogs and it has increased the interest of common people as well.
Trekking requires that you should be light-weighted. And this is what confuses the newbies. It should be around 7 to 8 kgs and not more than that. I remember I was confused about what to take and what to leave behind during my very first trek.
Below is the list that I have compiled regarding the necessary things to be carried with you on a trek based on my experience and experience of my fellow travelers and trekkers (based on a week-long trek):
1. Clothing
What is the perfect clothing for trek? How to optimize the number of clothing to take?
These are the questions that worries most of us.
Your clothes should depend upon the weather conditions. So it is better if you check the forecast and weather updates.
Stuffing your bag with too much clothes will make it difficult for you to climb. The best way to put your clothes in a bag is by rolling them. That it takes lesser space.
Shirts
Keep 3 shirts with you. No more than that.
Make sure they are full sleeved ones in order to avoid getting sunburned.
Dri-fit shirts are most suitable since they are easy to dry. Also, change your shirts whenever you feel it is getting to prevent yourself from catching cold. This is one of the mistake people do.
Pants
Don't go for jeans if you are not comfortable with it! It will not only hurt you, it will make your trekking miserable.
Personally I found stretchable jeans much comfortable. Other than that, cargo trousers are the best choice. Their fabric is as tough as jeans but more comfortable and the pockets will make your life easier.
Raincoats and Thermals
Raincoats are a must. You never when it is going to rain (or snow) in the mountains. So always carry a raincoat with you.
Thermals may be optional depending upon how one reacts to cold. Personally I prefer warm raincoats. It will help you in both ways.
One night during my first trek at Jahazbanda, while I was sleeping in a camp, I felt too cold that I wore all of thermals including socks and then covered myself in a raincoat as well.
2. Footwear
High-ankle, non skid trekking shoes (as is shown in the picture above).
A pair of light weight slippers.
Pair of warm socks. 1 pair for 2-3 days.
When you are in a vehicle and traveling it is better to change into your slippers to relax your feet. Shoes will eat up a lot of space. It is suggested to tie your shoes to your rucksack top handle with laces or any other traveling hooks available online.
3. Trekking Gears
A rucksack bag (larger backpack). They usually come with their rain covers.
A compass if you need to be aware of your exact directions, specially during night time.
A pocket torch along with spare batteries.
A pocket knife.
A camera (optional).
For UV protection: Sunscreen, a cap, UV protection sunglasses.
Trekking poles are essential. If you forgot to buy one earlier you will find plenty of tree branches which can come in handy..
EXTRA TOILETRIES:
Personal toiletries kit that may include mini washing soaps, facewash, tissue rolls, wipes, cold cream etc.
Don'f forget to include lip balm with your accessories!
4. Camp (Optional)
Unless there are already camps in the mountains prepared from locals for tourists and trekkers, you would want to take all the camping accessories with yourself. That may include:
A camping tent. They vary in sizes ranging from 2-person tents to as large as 12-person tents.
Sleeping bags. They are fold-able and can be attached with your rucksack. They come in different grades depending on the environment temperature. You should do your homework before buying sleeping bags.
Portable stove. In order to warm water or cook light food you may need a portable stove along with a small cylinder. It is quite suitable cause you will need a lot of tea up there in the mountains. It is optional as it will be a burden to carry.
5. Personal Medi-Kit
Personal medical kit is mandatory. In a group of 4, if a single person is carrying one kit, it is more than enough.
Following are mandatory stuff to be carried in a medical kit:
7 - 8 rolls of band aid.
1 small roll of cotton.
ORS packets with two packets per person.
Painkillers.
Medicines for diarrhea and vomiting.
Antibiotic in case of injury and infection.
Few meters of crepe band aid.
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