Ready, Set, Trek! Essential Gear Guide for Beginner Trekkers
14 Jun 2024 Chandra Gurung
Welcome to all trekking lovers from all over the world who are excited to experience the adventure for the first time. Trekking is an incredible way to explore nature, challenge yourself, and enjoy the great outdoors.
Is it that you want to experience your first hike with perfect planning and want to know what trekking essential gear is required for beginner trekkers? Don’t worry, beginners, you will get all the trekking essential guides for your perfect trek in this blog.
So set your things ready to trek and explore nature adventurously with good memories bringing along all the trekking essentials gears.
Why Proper Trekking Essential Gear Matters for Beginners?
We all know that we all expect our first trek to be the best unforgettable memories without any problems. So, for this proper trekking essential gear is important for beginners as it ensures safety, comfort, and a more enjoyable experience. The right equipment, from boots to backpacks, prevents injuries, keeps you prepared for all uncertain weather changes, and enhances overall stamina on the trail. Being well-equipped allows beginners to focus on the adventure without unnecessary difficulties or discomfort.
Trekking Essential Gears for Beginners
1. Comfortable Footwear
Investing in authentic footwear is crucial as your feet are your most important asset when trekking. For most beginners, boots with strong soles, waterproofing, and breathable materials to keep the feet dry and comfortable should be considered while purchasing the footwear. Make sure they fit well and provide adequate arch support to prevent blisters and discomfort. Wear and carry extra wool socks to keep your feet dry and comfortable.
2. Clothing and layers
Mountain weather can be unpredictable. Dressing in layers is a key to staying secure on trekking trails. Pack synthetic fabric or merino wool, fleece jackets, and lightweight waterproof and windproof jacket. Choose comparable, durable trekking pants or shorts. If possible convertible pants that zip off into shorts are an option to make the backpack more light. Don’t forget a hat, warm gloves, towels, and sunglasses for added protection.
3. Backpack
A backpack is a must-have for carrying your trekking essentials. If you are going for day hikes, a 20-30 litre pack should be sufficient but for multi-day treks around 50-70 litre backpack is needed. Make sure it has adjustable straps to your chest length and a hip belt to distribute the weight. Find the backpack with features like multiple compartments, water bottle pockets, a trekking pole(sticks) holder, and a rain cover. Some backpacks also have hydration reservoirs, which can be very convenient.
4. Water Bottle or Hydration Pack
Staying hydrated is important on long treks. Buy a reusable water bottle or hydration pack (a transparent water pack that fits into the sleeve of a backpack with an attached pipe for drinking) to carry enough water for the journey. If you are in an area without guaranteed clean water, bring a water purification method like a filter, purification tablets, or a UV purifier.
5. Navigational Tools
You should carry a physical map, compass, GPS devices and apps even if you are on your way to well-known trails. It ensures you stay on track and can find your way back if needed. A map will help you plan your route while a compass will guide you through unfamiliar terrain if in case the device batteries are off. A GPS device can provide real-time directions to your current location and guide you to your destinations.
6. First Aid Kit
A basic first aid kit is a must-have trekking essentials so that you can cure some possible easy injuries during your trek. Your kit should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, spray, high-altitude sickness medicine, toilet paper and personal necessary medications.
7. Foods and Snacks
To keep your energy levels up, pack high-energy snacks like nuts, dried fruits, and energy bars. Also, you can bring a portable stove or camping gear if you have a plan to cook meals on the trail.
8. Trekking Sticks
Trekking sticks or trekking poles help you provide stability, reducing strain on your joints, and helping with balance on uneven terrain. Look for sticks with adjustable handles and soft foam grips for a comfortable fit.
9. Headlamp
A headlamp can be used in low-light situations. Choose one with adjustable brightness and a comfortable fit headlamp with extra batteries and make sure it’s fully charged before you start.
10. Sunscreen
Choose a broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen, and reapply every day of your trek. It helps you shield your skin from harmful UV rays, prevent burn and minimize the risk of skin damage.
11. Sleeping Bags
You should carry the sleeping bags rated for the lowest expected temperature on your trek. Downbags are lightweight and compressible, while synthetic bags perform better in wet conditions. Ensure it’s comfortably suited to the weather you are going trekking for a restful sleep. These can be used in case there might be uncertain circumstances due to uninvited situations and the need to spend a night on the way or want to take pleasure in spending the night under the sky with the stars.
Conclusion
Beginners should invest in authentic trekking essential gear for trekking as some of them would not only be used once but for a lifetime in your upcoming trekking journey. So think wisely about buying the trekking essential gear as there are many authentic trekking shops in Nepal with their best output, deals and durability.
All trekkers need to research the information related to distance, difficulty level, and weather conditions of their chosen trekking destination before starting the journey. Knowing what to expect will help you prepare adequately with the necessary trekking essentials gear and ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure for your first trek. If you are interested and still confused about your planning for your trek and want to kickstart your journey without any hazards with perfect planning then do remember the Manaslu Guide for your adventure.
