Pro Trekking Tips- --> Watch this video to learn some trekking and back-country camping tips:
Final plan check 1. Find out as much as you can about your trail and campsite:
Is there a latrine to use or will you dig your own primitive toilet holes?
What permits, permissions, additional adults, training classes (CPR, Lifeguard etc.) are needed?
How will you get to the trail head and do you know where to park?
What is the weather and are you prepared?
Are their any alerts posted about the area? (Insects, water problems, bears...?)
Are there fees involved and if so, how will you pay for them?
Are there rules you must follow in the area you are hiking/camping?
2. Leave your travel plans, hiking route, destination and time with an adult back home.
3. Pack!
DO THIS --> 1. Use the list to the right as a guide for creating your own packing list. (You may copy/paste the provided list onto your own word document so you can edit the list.)
Once you have made your list, mark the items you have already with an "O" for own.
Mark the items you can borrow with a "B".
Mark the items you need to purchase with a "P". Visit a camp gear or sporting good website to get an estimate on how much these items will cost. How will you pay for the remaining items?
2. Share where you are going on your adventure, what you plan to do while there, and any special preparations you will do before going!
Sample packing list- Miscellaneous-
Reservations, back-country permits if necessary
Maps (See station 4)
Insurance cards, permission slips
Cash, credit card
phone with extra batteries, charging cord
Emergency Phone numbers/ contacts
Clothing- (wear one outfit, pack the other)
2 pairs of shorts or pants
2 T-shirts
1 long sleeved shirt and/or fleece jacket (depending on temperature)
1 light weight rain repellent jacket
2 pairs of hiking socks
2 pairs of underwear, bras
1 sleepwear
1 bandana
1 hat with brim
1 fanny pack
sunglasses
Boots- water proofed or smear mink oil on them yourself.
athletic sandals for when at base camp
Personals-
small travel size deodorant stick
suntan lotion (squeeze packets)
bug spray (roll on or lotion)
sample size shampoo
lightweight personal washcloth & biodegradable bar soap
toothbrush/paste (travel size)
floss
comb
Personal medications
Headache medicine
Immune vitamins(such as EMERGEN-C)
Diarrhea medicine
Lip balm
Blister & medical kit: moleskin, scissors (pocket "army' knife), Antibacterial ointment, surgical tape, bandaids, roll bandages, tweezers etc.
Biodegradable toilet paper and a number of plastic baggies to put waste toilet paper and feminine items in. Leave No Trace! That means you haul out any waste products and trash when not using designated latrines.
Antibacterial lotion/wipes.
Food- Add your list from Station 2
Add Water purification tablets and/or system. Don't forget your water bottles and collapsible bags. (See Station 3.)
Gear-
Small mirror or reflective surface (in case you need to signal for help)
Backpack with detachable rain cover- Suggested- an internal frame and with adjustable straps.
A detachable day pack or separate day pack for side hikes away from base camp where you can store your larger pack for the day.
Tent (lightweight!)
Self inflatable air mattress and/or sleeping pad
Sheet and/or sleeping bag (depending on temperature)
2 Adjustable, Hiking/trekking poles (not the same as skiing poles! These help alleviate 60-80% strain and stress on one's knees and increase stability on the trail. Practice using these before your adventure!
Flashlight
Headlamp (Yes- you want at least 2 sources of light, plus matches to light a fire for a third.)
Plastic trowel for toileting (digging a pit toilet)
Collapsible bucket or extra large mouthed water bottle to collect water to purify.
"Army" knife with multiple types of blades, tweezers, scissors, etc.
Duct tape (good to have to repair tents, gear, and even create a splint if necessary)
Relaxing/Fun- Add your list from Station 1 for the activities you would like to plan for. Pack part of a book (Rip off the cover and pages you have read to reduce weight.)