What’s more exciting than a new rugged backpacking adventure? Packing for the trip! While daunting for many, the most experienced outdoorsy people breeze through their packing by doing one thing: simplifying.
Sleeping Bag Liner
If hiking is big on the agenda, you should carry a sleeping bag liner. A liner keeps things clean, whether you’re using your own sleeping bag or borrowing a friend’s. Liners also make sleeping bags warmer, giving you that much-needed good night’s sleep after a long trek.
Microfibre Towel
Cutting down bulky items is the key to traveling light. Choose a microfibre towel for your travels. They’re compact, dry quickly, and weigh next to nothing.
Portable Charger and Batteries
The chances are you’ll be taking a ton of pictures on the road. Never let an Instagram-worthy moment slide because your phone battery dies. Pack a portable charger so that you’re always camera-ready. It’s handy to have, especially in case of emergencies.
Water Bottle Filter
A downside of adventuring is that access to clean water isn't a guarantee. Bringing a water bottle filter with you mans you can stay hydrated with clean water for the entire trip!
Medicines
Stash away a packet with medication that can be useful on your travels. From stomach bugs and headaches to the flu, you want to be prepared for any eventuality. Remember to pack those allergy pills too!
Dry Bags
Ask any outdoor enthusiast, and they’ll tell you they never leave home without a few dry bags. It's your best defense against unpredictable rainy weather! You can use dry bags to keep your gadgets, food, and important documents safe. You could even use a large dry bag to stash dirty clothes until you wash them.
Snacks
Active travel requires extra calories. To avoid spending money on food all the time, pack some essentials with you: trail mix, nuts, energy bars, or fruit. You could even consider freeze-dried meals for something a little heartier.
Headlamp
Headlamps will make your life much easier on the road. Fixing a tent at night or rummaging through a backpack is a breeze when you have both hands free!
Swiss Army Knife
The swiss army knife is ubiquitous to adventure travel. It’s a one-stop tool that can come in handy on hikes, during a campfire cookout, or opening stubborn jar lids.
Recovery Sandals
When you’re on the go for days or weeks, the feet can really take a battering. Make sure to give them a little TLC by slipping into comfortable recovery sandals at the end of the day. Bonus points if the sandals are waterproof. Walking around campsites in comfy, cushioned sandals is just the thing for aching feet after a long walk.