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