It can be difficult to know what to take with you when traveling. On the one hand, you don't want to take anything too heavy, especially if you have to carry it around with you, as when you're backpacking. There is also a risk that whatever you take on your trip, you could end up leaving it behind. Nevertheless, there are certain items that are essential to the success of your trip. The following items can prove very useful when you're traveling on outdoor adventures, such as camping, hiking, fishing, etc.
Seasonally Appropriate Clothing and Outerwear
Depending on where you go during what time of year, you may encounter a wide variety of weather conditions, sometimes even during the same trip. You need to pay attention to what the weather is likely to do and pack accordingly. If it is likely to be cold, you need to be sure to pack appropriate outerwear, including a wool hat and waterproof jacket to stay warm and dry regardless of the elements. On the other hand, if it is likely to be warm, you should think about packing shorts and tank tops. You can be ready for just about anything by packing and dressing in layers so that you can add or remove articles as dictated by the conditions.
First Aid Kit
It's never a bad idea to keep a first aid kit with you at all times. That way, you can treat minor injuries as well as stabilize people with more major injuries until help arrives. It becomes even more important to have a first aid kit with you while traveling in the wilderness because it can be more difficult to summon help. Look specifically for first aid kits made for travel. These kits pack all the essentials as recommended by the American Red Cross in an incredibly small and portable case. Of course, you hope that you never need a first aid kit, but if you do have a need someday, you'll sure be grateful to have it.
Sleeping Bag
Nothing makes you feel more self-sufficient than carrying around your own sleeping bag and then settling down to sleep in it while you're ready to camp for the night. Sleeping bags are comfort-rated to certain temperatures to give you an idea of how well they will keep you warm. If you plan to go on an overnight adventure in the winter, you should definitely check the comfort rating to be sure that it is appropriate for below-zero temperatures, which you may encounter after the sun goes down.
If you only plan summer adventures, the comfort rating doesn't matter so much. If you tend to sleep hot, you may want to get a sleeping bag rated to a higher temperature. However, if you plan adventures for all times of the year, you're better off getting a sleeping bag that is comfort-rated for winter. You are unlikely to get too hot using this bag during the summer because the outdoor temperature can see a dramatic drop after the sun goes down, especially up in the mountains.
Tent
While you try to keep careful tabs on the weather forecast, conditions can change unpredictably. Therefore, it is always a good idea to have a tent to sleep in for shelter from an unforeseen nocturnal rainstorm. Tents range in all shapes and sizes. Some are extremely basic, while others resemble nylon mansions. Some are easier to set up than others. There are even some tents designed for the roof of your car or to hang like a hammock to prevent you from having to sleep on the ground. If you want to be able to see the stars as you drift off to sleep, choose a tent with a sky window. That way, you remain protected from the elements while still getting the authentic experience of sleeping out under the stars.
A lot can happen when you are out in the wilderness. It is important to think about what may happen and plan accordingly.
