| When planning any backpacking or hiking trip | | | | has been used as soon as possible. |
| there are certain items that you really | | | | |
| should include as part of your Backpacking | | | | WATER. Always carry as much water as you |
| Gear List. O.k. so there are a load of new | | | | possibly can, hiking is thirsty work. Also if |
| gadgets on the market that are supposed to be | | | | you can include a water purification kit ( |
| the best thing since sliced bread, but you | | | | one that will filter and than sterilise the |
| should not forget the traditional, tried and | | | | water,) this means that you are able to |
| tested essential items. The things that you | | | | re-stock along the way. |
| really should not go without. | | | | |
| | | | EXTRA FOOD AND CLOTHES. Try to pack some |
| A GOOD MAP. One that covers the area that you | | | | spare clothing as well as some extra food. |
| will be travelling over, and detailed enough | | | | You never know what is going to happen on the |
| to show all the minor tracks, trails, rivers | | | | trail, so always be prepared to expect the |
| and streams as well as the main roads. | | | | unexpected and carry enough for an extra day |
| | | | or two, in case of emergencies. |
| A COMPASS. Using a map alone is not going to | | | | |
| work very well without a decent compass. | | | | KNIFE. It doesn't have to be a huge hunting |
| Knowing what direction you are travelling in | | | | knife, but a good pocket knife or multi-tool |
| is vital. Try to buy one that is accurate but | | | | can be invaluable for many uses and should be |
| rugged enough to stand up to some rough | | | | included in your kit no matter how short your |
| handling in the wilds. | | | | trip may be. |
| | | | |
| FLASHLIGHT. Not only useful for seeing where | | | | FIRE. You should carry a spare lighter or |
| you are going, but a must when you are trying | | | | waterproof matches, and keep them in a |
| to find something in the middle of the night | | | | waterproof container. (Imagine not being able |
| in a pitch black tent. And very handy for | | | | to cook your food or have a brew up, just |
| signalling in the event of an emergency. | | | | because you cannot light your stove). |
| | | | |
| FIRST AID KIT. Possibly one of the most | | | | These are just a few ideas of what to include |
| important items in your backpack. Accidents | | | | in your Backpacking Gear List, you can of |
| can happen at any time anywhere, from minor | | | | course add to them, but always think through |
| cuts and scratches to sprains and more | | | | what you are going to take. There is no need |
| serious injuries. You should always carry a | | | | to pack your backpack full of items that you |
| first aid kit that is well stocked with a | | | | will never use, so try to stick to the |
| variety of supplies, plus any personal | | | | essentials. |
| medication. And ALWAYS replace anything that | | | | |