Traveler’s Equipment

Hiker’s Equipment

Having the right personal equipment is essential for a successful trip. It’s often challenging not to forget anything, so below, we mention a list of equipment that will help you prepare your travel backpack and be useful during your stay.

We immediately think of the sun and sand but often forget about the chilling wind and cold that can be encountered, even in these latitudes.

For hiking, you lose a lot of body heat, so it’s important to protect yourself. Here is a list of equipment, clothing, and small items that will facilitate your travel preparation.

Hiking Clothing:

For the Head:

• A cheche to protect from heat and sandstorms.
• A beanie for cool evenings and nights.
• A hat, headscarf, or cap for hot days.
• Sunglasses.

For the Torso and Legs:

• T-shirts.
• Long-sleeved shirts.
• Second layer, such as fleece or a shirt.
• Jacket: Rain is very rare in the desert, but wind is often present.
• A “Gore-Tex type” jacket that provides protection against wind and rain.
• Tights are very useful for evenings and can be used for sleeping in the sleeping bag.
• Hiking pants. There are lightweight materials available today; choose a loose fit to allow air circulation.
• Long shorts or capri pants. Capri pants for both men and women are generally acceptable and do not offend the local population. However, shorts are completely inappropriate.

For the Feet:

• Socks (anti-blister hiking socks).
• Hiking boots (properly fitted to your feet).
• Sneakers for walking on sand.
• Sandals or flip-flops.
• Bring appropriate shoes for walking in water.

For the Hands:

• Lightweight gloves: fleece, stretch, or silk.

Backpack:

A lightweight hiking backpack, 30 to 35 liters. During hiking hours, a small backpack of this size is sufficient. “Camera, sunscreen, water bottle, a light sweater, and sometimes part of the picnic will be the only necessary items for the day.”

Travel Bag:

A soft travel bag without wheels, 50 to 90 liters. A soft bag is ideal to avoid injuring pack animals. However, if luggage transportation between stages is done by vehicle, there is no harm in using a wheeled bag, which is more practical for movement in stations and airports.

Sleeping:

• Sleeping bag, with a comfort temperature ranging from -5 to +5 °C.
• Sleeping bag liner or silk sheet, small pillow. “The liner helps keep the sleeping bag clean and provides extra warmth.”

Miscellaneous Equipment:

• Water bottle or hydration bladder.
• Plastic bags for protection, like freezer bags.
• Reinforced emergency blanket.
• Toiletry kit.
• Towel.
• Small sewing kit.
• Knife (Swiss Army knife, Opinel, etc.).
• Spare shoelace.
• Toilet paper.
• Lighter.
• Moist towelettes, like baby wipes.
• Know that a washcloth and a small bowl of water are sufficient for personal hygiene, which is more environmentally friendly.
• Travel book.
• Spare contact lenses or prescription glasses.
• Headlamp with spare batteries and bulb.
• Scissors.
• Nail clippers.
• Binoculars for birdwatching enthusiasts.

Hiking Shoes:

Have good hiking shoes that are already fitted to your feet, such as medium mountain shoes with a sufficiently rigid and well-treaded sole that provides ankle support. You can find them at sports stores. Above all, you should feel comfortable in them. If they are new, it is always recommended to break them in by walking as often as possible before your departure to avoid discomfort and blisters.

Walking Poles:

Telescopic walking poles can be a valuable addition for mountain hikes. They will assist you in uphill climbs and, more importantly, provide stability during descents or tricky passages.

Remember, this list of equipment is meant to help you prepare for your journey and ensure your comfort and safety. Adapt it according to your specific needs and the nature of your trip. It’s always a good idea to check the weather conditions and terrain of your destination to make any necessary adjustments to your equipment.

Additionally, don’t forget to pack other essential items such as personal medication, first aid kit, insect repellent, sunscreen, travel documents, money, and any specific items relevant to your trip, such as camping gear or navigation tools.

Properly preparing your traveler’s equipment will contribute to a more enjoyable and hassle-free experience during your journey. Happy travels!