Folks who love going on adventures but are swamped with work or those who love the comfort of their home yet yearn to break the monotony are the ones who mostly resort to trips that only last a day.
Some people wing it and explore unknown places. And some will put together all the places they want to see and come up with a perfect schedule for a day.
But when it comes to packing, both these parties might stuff their bags with useless items.
If you don't pack right, lack of needs and abundance of non-essentials, end up marring your wanderlust.
Here is an ultimate region-wise checklist to avoid such mistakes
TROPICS
GPS
The old fashioned compass will come in handy when returning to base camp/starting point/exit point while on one-day treks. Waterproof and tear-resistant maps are also important for safe exploration.
Protection
The scorching heat and insects-bites can cause skin irritation. Large containers of sunscreen and repellents take up space, so it is better to pour some into a lens container which will consume little space in your backpack yet will be enough for the day. Do not forget to mark these with their initials. Here are essentials you might want to carry in the lens case.
Lip balm- Your lips are the most sensitive part of the face. The tropical climate will cause your lips to lose moisture and cause it to crack. Therefore, a lip balm is always a blessing.
Sunscreen– Staying out in the sun in a tropical region without a sun screen is a big no-no. Not only will you get tanned or skin-burnt but the strong UV rays are harmful for the health of your skin.
Insect/mosquito repellent- While you think a few mosquitoes will not hurt you, reality will hit you like a hurricane. Do not be fooled because in a tropical region you will be met by a great number of insects and mosquitoes and it is essential to protect yourself against the diseases they may cause.
Clothes
Hat/bandana/buff- When it gets hot, you will need something to wipe the sweat off from your face. A bandana tied around the forehead will also stop the sweat from running down your face.
Lightweight jacket/vest- When the temperatures drop, a jacket will protect you from the breeze. A light weight jacket makes it easier on the shoulders.
Cotton-polyester long sleeved shirt and pants- To keep you fully covered and protected from bugs and insects.
Shoes and tough waterproof boots– These will make your journey comfortable and bearable for your feet.
Gloves- While handling vines, shrubs and small trees, your bare hands might get hurt. Gloves will be your armour then.
Light Source
Flashlights and batteries are handy and that way you do not drain your phone out.
Safety first
Bandages and tweezers are essential in the case of injuries like cuts and bruises or in some cases for thorns getting stuck to your skin.
Fire Source
Lighters are more efficient than matches. So, pack them in a dry container to be used in case of emergencies.
Nutrition
Carry energy bars and packaged food. These give the extra energy that you need in moving forward. Having a nutrition/energy bar will be a godsend to your grumbling stomach.
Hydration
A day-long trip might get hectic so it is better to carry a water bottle of your own at all times. Energy drinks also give you that extra boost to keep moving.
Extras
A poncho- In the case of rainfall. A poncho will help cover your bag too.
A plastic bag/cover- Will help the rest of your things stay dry while your wet clothes are carefully packed inside the cover.
An extra set of clothes- Shirt, pants and underwear will be needed as you will feel uncomfortable travelling back in clothes dirty from the day.
A towel- To dry yourself off in case of sudden rain.
A camera/phone- Capture the beautiful moments. If you plan on using your phone, take a power bank so you do not end up with a dead phone.
BEACHES
GPS
Your phone will serve as your navigator. Carry a portable charger.
Protection
Sunscreen/sunblock- The beach is an open area without shade. Therefore, take care of your skin and prevent skin burns and other tanning and other harmful effects of the UV rays.
Lip-balm- Out in sun, you will be parched and your lips will be susceptible to cracks, so pack lip-balm or Vaseline with you.
Sunglasses- Protect your eyes from the direct sunlight at the beach with a pair of sunglasses.
Insect/mosquito repellent- The beach is no protection from mosquitoes and other insects, especially if its closer to vegetation. Therefore apply repellent and relax .
Clothes
Swimsuit- For a swim in the nice cold water.
Cover-up - A white t-shirt is the most comfortable option to use as a cover up in the sun after you are done swimming.
Shorts and a tank top – It is the most appropriate attire for a walk on the beach because it keeps you comfortable and lets you dip your feet in the ocean without wetting your clothes.
Flip flops - They make it easier to walk on the sandy beach.
Hat – Yet another protection from the scorching sun.
Safety first
Bandages and antiseptic creams.
Nutrition
Carry snacks. Most beaches have shacks that serve food.
Hydration
Water is essential in staying hydrated . Cold drinks beat the heat and refresh your body. Carry water in a thermos ( retains the cold temperature).
Extras
A beach towel- to dry yourself after the swim.
A book- if you are travelling alone, a book is the best companion.
Portable speakers- Music for the gang when travelling in a group adds good vibes to the trip.
A hammock- A great option to rest in on the beach. Tie the two ends to two trees and you have a makeshift bed at the ready.
Beach blanket- To lay down on and to set your bag down.
Plastic bag- Transfer wet clothes so that you do not wet the rest of your bag.
Extra set of clothes- To travel back clean and dry.
MOUNTAINEERING/ TREKKING
GPS
Waterproof and tear-resistant maps are very useful in such rugged terrains. A compass is a must, so learn how to use them efficiently too.
Protection
Carrying large containers of creams is work. Instead of their original packaging, pour some into a lens container. That will hold enough for a whole day. Do not forget to mark these with their initials.
Sunscreen/sunblock- As you go higher, you are closer the the heat and humidity.
Lipbalm- Take care of the sensitive skin in the cold climate.
Sunglasses- To protect your eyes because mountaineering involves ascends and looking up.
Insect/mosquito repellent- To protect your body from insect bites.
Insulation
Jacket/vest- To keep yourself warm and protect yourself from the chilly winds.
Hat/ bandana/buff- To keep the sweat off while on the move.
Full sleeved shirt and pants- So that you are shielded from insects and vegetation.
Shoes with grip and socks- To help you walk comfortably and also prevent slipping.
Gloves- To protect your hand in the cold weather.
Light source
Headlamps tend to be very useful as they are hassle free. Flashlights can also be used. Bring batteries.
Safety first
Carry all of the below, in a small container.
Bandages
Antiseptic wipes
Safety pins
Blister strips
Tweezers- if something like thorns get inside your skin, the tweezers will help get the thorns out.
Insect sting relief
Hand sanitizer
Aloevera gel- helps fight minor skin irritations, if any.
Knife- Big and sharp enough to cut ropes and vines to move through the terrain.
Fire source
Carry a lighter in case you need an emergency fire due to extreme cold temperatures.
Nutrition
Energy bars- These are the most compact form of carbs and protein.
Packaged food
Hydration
Water filter- to refill water so that you keep yourself hydrated. The filter will do its job in cleaning the stream water and making it drinkable.
Extras
Tent might be useful to set base.
Towel to keep yourself dry.
Plastic cover to transfer wet/dirty clothes
Gear required for the expedition
