| When planning your backpacking trip, you | | | | case. You could get lost, or encounter |
| need to think carefully about what | | | | bad weather, or you might just get stuck |
| equipment to take and what you can | | | | and not be able to get back. You must |
| afford to leave behind. | | | | always be prepared for the unexpected, |
| There are some things that you simply | | | | and extra food and clothing will help |
| must have. Whilst there are plenty of | | | | you cope. |
| new gadgets and devices that are | | | | First Aid Kit |
| supposed to enhance your backpacking | | | | This is a really important item. There |
| experience, when it comes down to it, | | | | are many things which can happen out in |
| there are some traditional items that | | | | the wilderness. Even if you are |
| you should never leave home without, | | | | traveling in a very well kept area, you |
| regardless of what new technology you | | | | can still find a need for a first aid |
| may have in your pack. These essential | | | | kit. Make sure you get a kit that is |
| items are listed below. | | | | well stocked with a variety of supplies. |
| Map | | | | Knife |
| The key here is to choose a map which | | | | Ideally you should have a multi-function |
| has sufficient detail to clearly show | | | | knife which incorporates several |
| the trails and area details of where you | | | | different tools. Such tools can prove |
| will be backpacking. Apart from that, | | | | to be very important and their uses are |
| it really does not matter what type of | | | | endless when backpacking. At a minimum, |
| map you choose. | | | | a nice sharp knife that can cut through |
| Compass | | | | fabric and cord is necessary. |
| You will need a good quality compass | | | | Matches |
| that will withstand the elements | | | | Matches can prove to be a lifesaver, |
| outside. The fact is you have to know | | | | particularly in cold weather conditions. |
| which direction you are going. Just | | | | You should either get waterproof matches |
| taking a map is not going to work. | | | | or carry your matches in a waterproof |
| Flashlight | | | | container. |
| It is very important that you always can | | | | Water or water treatment |
| see where you are going. A good quality | | | | Drinking water is essential as you must |
| flashlight is essential, plus batteries. | | | | stay hydrated while backpacking. If you |
| You can now buy wind-up torches, which | | | | do not carry water, an alternative is to |
| remove the need for batteries. Remember, | | | | have the necessary supplies to |
| it can be very dark in none-rural areas. | | | | adequately treat water. |
| Not having adequate lighting can | | | | These are the essentials, but as you |
| contribute to falls or injuries which | | | | plan your trip you will quickly find |
| can really ruin a good backpacking trip. | | | | there are many considerations when |
| Extra food and clothing | | | | deciding on what to take. Make sure you |
| Instead of packing just what you need, | | | | seek good advice from the many resources |
| you should try to pack extra just in | | | | available to you. |