Most of us get excited when we start planning a nature adventure. That is, until you start thinking about what you should stock up in your day-pack bag, your teeny suitcase, or your weeny little suitcase. It can help if you jot down a list of the must-have items so that you do not leave any essentials behind. Having all the items you need can ensure you finish up your adventure on a high note. Look at these 6 items you need to fully enjoy the nature adventure:

Navigation Aiders

An adventure is meant to be full of trials and errors. At times it means going outdoors when the weather is inclement and when there is very low visibility. In such instances, GPS location devices can mean the world to you. Remember to have some extra batteries packed and get the right gear as it can make a whole difference to your adventure. You can have a compass direction, a GPS app on your phone, a topo map, and a triangulation pencil. Ensure you know how to use them otherwise it will be vain to have them and to carry them. Part of your planning for the adventure should include you going for orienteering classes on how to use these important navigation tools.

A First-aid Kit

You can customize your first aid kit or buy a prepackaged first-aid kit. You can save some money if you assemble your first aid kit yourself because you probably have most of the essentials you should stock in your kit with you. For convenience and for purposes of saving time, a prepackaged first-aid kit would be more suitable. Have some antibiotic ointments and pain-relieving medications in it. If you are under certain prescription drugs, ensure you carry them with you. Have some gauze pads, some band-aids, sports tapes, a pair of latex gloves, and some safety pins. Moleskin, burn cream, sports cream, and hand sanitizers are also essential. Sun protection items like sunscreens, sunglasses, protective hats, and lip balms are also a good thing to carry.

Ideal Clothing

Please carry extra clothing that will offer you maximum insulation in case the weather changes. Carry rain gear with you if it’s a rainy season. If it’s winter, carry some warm clothing, and if it’s summer, some vests can be a good thing. All the same, you wouldn’t want to burden yourself with a lot of weight as it can make you uncomfortable and ultimately you might not enjoy the adventure as you should. You should therefore ensure your clothes are lightweight and wicking. Avoid packing cotton clothes as they can absorb a lot of water when it rains, they can absorb some warmth from your body and they also take too long to dry. Wool and synthetics like propylene are good materials for your underlayers. Consider boots that are water-resistant so that you don’t feel uncomfortable with water in your feet.

Foods and Drinks

Pack some food for your nourishment and rejuvenation. Ensure you stock up healthy snacks that can supplement your dietary needs. Stock enough food that will carry you to the end of your adventure and have some extra in case your trip prolongs beyond the intended time. Don’t forget to carry excess water with you. You need to stay hydrated throughout your journey. Sometimes you can feel all worn-out and sweaty and pouring some cold water on your head can give you such a cooling effect. Store your water in insulated containers to keep your water cold if you are adventuring in the summer.

An Emergency Shelter

It can help if you pack an emergency blanket and bivy sack in case you need to rest somewhere and still want to keep warm. You will also need some fire in case you get stranded. Carry some water-proof matches and slow-burn candles.

Illumination

Have a flashlight as it can help you navigate various places when there is low visibility and when it is night. Ensure you carry extra batteries so that you do not get stranded in the dark when your active batteries run out.

Nature adventures are meant to be fun and thrilling. Have all the essential items that can enhance your safety and comfort. You can also carry extra items like ropes in case you’ll need to hang food storage dishes and for erecting shelters besides using them for hanging clothes. Ziplock bags are also essential for safely storing your items. Insect repellants, emergency whistles, warming packs, toilet paper, and flagger tapes are also basic items to carry with you. You can have a pocket knife with you as it can help you gather some wild fruits and vegetables. Dress appropriately to ensure your body is fully protected. Lightweight clothing can feel more comfortable.