Planning a long trek into the great, wide open? A wilderness trip involves a heck of a lot of planning so you don’t, um, die. Check out the following tips to ensure your adventure is one you’ll be talking about for years and years.
Research
Study the area you intend to traverse before you do anything else. Become as familiar with it as you possibly can, which includes learning about weather patterns, area wildlife, routes into and out of the woods, etc. Ensure you’re able to handle the terrain, whether it involves lots of dry desert or steep mountain passes, and learn about the region’s edible plants in case of emergency.
Let Others Know
Let friends and family know where you’ll be if you’re traveling by yourself. Tell them when you’re leaving and when you expect to return. If you will be in cell phone range at various times, let loved ones know you’ll call with updates on your trip.
Pack the Essentials
Pack what the National Park Service calls the “10 essentials.”
- Extra food
- Extra warm-when-wet clothing
- Compass
- Pocketknife
- Sunglasses and sunblock
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Topographic map of the area
- First aid kit
- Matches in a waterproof container
- Fire starter or candle
Bring the Correct Clothing/Footwear
Face the elements by wearing layers of clothing. You can always take extra pieces off, but if you don’t have any to begin with, you’ll likely find yourself very cold and/or wet. Wool and polar fleece are two excellent materials, while cotton should be avoided, as it will keep you wet and very cold. Rain gear is another must and should include a quality raincoat, gaiters, and rain pants. Bring waterproof boots as well.
Procure a Tent with a Rain Fly
Purchase a tent with a rain fly if you haven’t already. Tents designed for three, if not all four, seasons are best.
Don’t Forget about this Other Stuff
Pack the following items for additional assistance when alone in the wilderness.
- Ice ax (if applicable)
- Cover for keeping your pack dry in wet weather
- Bee sting kit
- Water sanitation tablets
- Garden trowel for digging catholes
- Toilet paper
- Biodegradable soap
- Portable cooking station/utensils
- Extra water bottle
What are your best wilderness trip planning tips?
1 comments
Great checklist that I can use to keep track of the things I need for my next trip. I would like to add that knowledge and survival skills are equally important when you are planning for your wilderness trip. These skills will help you in times of need.