Here is the gear to bring for a nature expedition
Heading out for a day of hiking in the wilderness? Find below our quick practical checklist. Here are the items you must pack in your backpack:
- Water (enough for more than a day)
- Flashlights and headlamps (2 and check the batteries)
- Multi-tool with a Swiss knife
- Enough food for the day
- Emergency food pack or ready-to-eat meals
- First aid kit
- Compass
- Survival blanket (one per person)
- Lighter and box of matches
- Map of the area
- Long rope / paracord bracelet
- Waterproof jacket
- Small mirror to reflect the sun (easy to see in the sky on a clear day)
- Mobile phone with emergency numbers. If you don't have a network, you are still prepared thanks to the above items.
What to wear:
Hot days / cold nights
Comfortable, breathable, and waterproof hiking clothes. Leggings, a pair of warm socks, a warm waterproof jacket, or something light but with good insulation. For nights below 14°C, you will need more than a sweater/t-shirt, depending on the wind. A waterproof and windproof jacket should always be in your bag, no matter where you are, as any wet clothing can lead to hypothermia when the temperature changes. Also, make sure your backpack is waterproof or that you have a waterproof cover. A clear cloud cover can also be easily seen from the sky. In case of trouble, it can be useful!
Hot days / warm nights:
Comfortable, breathable, and waterproof hiking clothes. If there is any chance of rain, bring a waterproof jacket. Make sure your bag is also waterproof or that you have a waterproof cover. Don't forget insect repellent suitable for the region and, if possible, covering but breathable clothing depending on the potential presence of mosquitoes. Even in warm periods, nights can be cool or even freezing in some deserts.
Cold days / freezing nights:
Comfortable, breathable, and thick hiking clothes. Leggings should be breathable and prevent your skin from retaining moisture. If you don't wear a jacket while hiking, always bring clothing that can withstand freezing temperatures. Don't forget a pair of insulating and breathable gloves, as well as a pair of waterproof gloves if there is a risk of snow. In extreme conditions, it is best to wear insulating and waterproof boots, an extra pair of dry wool or moisture-wicking socks. Bringing an insulating hat and even a balaclava would be a good idea. Pants should be comfortable and warm, worn over leggings. It is best to hike with waterproof pants with gaiters. If you don't have them, don't forget lightweight waterproof pants that you can wear over your bottom in case of snow or rain. If your warm jacket is not waterproof, always bring a rain jacket that you can wear over your warm jacket. Make sure your backpack is also waterproof or that you have a waterproof cover.
In extreme conditions:
Polar or desert, tropical or high altitude. These expeditions require meticulous planning and precise equipment. Never attempt to conquer such places without real training and specialized equipment.
Additional information:
Weather and circumstances can change in seconds or minutes. Always be aware of the weather and geographical outlook of the place you are going and make sure you are always well equipped. The above recommendations are only intended for basic survival in the event you get caught by nightfall. If it is possible to be caught by more than one night, double your equipment and consider turning your day hike into a multi-day excursion. Remember that the sun sets earlier half of the year. The further you are from the equator, the faster the sun will set. Additionally, mountains and hills will darken earlier than flat terrain. Be vigilant that the duration of your hike matches the duration of daylight to avoid being caught by nightfall, noting the terrain and slope on the way back.