So, you've made up your mind… you're finally going on your first trek! No more day hikes or short getaways. This time, you're heading off independently or semi-independently for one to two weeks abroad, into a desert or a mountain range. To make this kind of trip a real success, you need not only to prepare and train, but also to think carefully about your gear and kit. Of course, everything will depend on your destination, the season, and the type of trek you're doing — but here is a basic checklist of absolute essentials so you don't forget a thing.
Luggage
Plan for 2 bags:
- A small daypack for carrying daily essentials: windproof jacket, water bottle, documents, camera, first-aid kit and snacks.
- A large holdall or travel bag to pack all your belongings. Don't use a hard-shell wheeled suitcase — if animals are doing the carrying, it quickly becomes awkward and can injure them.
Sleeping gear
Don't cut corners on the quality of your sleeping bag: it's an essential element of your comfort. Depending on the climate, choose accordingly, from warm to very warm. Add a cotton liner for extra thermal and hygienic insulation. Also plan for warm synthetic underwear for the night, and even thermal leggings to keep your legs warm — where you're most likely to feel the cold while sleeping.
Clothing
- 2 to 3 lightweight travel trousers, to be complemented by shorts or roll-up bermudas: opt for mosquito-repellent, quick-drying fabrics.
- 1 lightweight, packable windproof jacket
- a very warm jumper or fleece for winter, along with a warmer jacket with good thermal insulation, windproof and water-repellent, for evenings or cold spells.
- a hat or cap (essential)
- a chèche or large piece of fabric to cover the back of the neck
- pairs of merino wool socks — always choose good-quality ones designed for hiking: don't forget that your feet deserve careful attention, they'll be your most valuable asset!
- jumper or sweatshirt: 1 or 2 depending on the season
- thermal base-layer tops, breathable and with effective moisture-wicking properties
- long-sleeved shirts rather than t-shirts: they offer greater versatility and a higher level of comfort.
Footwear
1 pair of light shoes for the evening, 1 pair of trekking shoes with good ankle support and suited to the type of terrain you'll be encountering.
Accessories
- 1 water bottle of at least 1 litre
- 1 torch (head torch if possible) with spare batteries and bulb
- A pair of sunglasses
- 1 knife, ideally a Swiss Army knife
- toiletries and a personal first-aid kit
- toilet paper and a lighter for disposal
- 1 pair of walking poles with wrist straps
- 1 compass: a real one, because in some places you can't rely too heavily on your smartphone
- water purification capsules such as Micropur to purify and sanitise water.
And one important piece of advice: don't leave it to the last minute to get your gear. You'll have more time to choose wisely, and also to get used to your new equipment. Whether it's new boots, new base-layer underwear or a pair of hiking poles… it's always better to break them in over a few outings: it avoids nasty surprises later and lets you get comfortable with your new purchase.
Buy specialist gear designed for the purpose! There's a world of difference between travel trousers designed by a specialist and a simple pair of canvas trousers you can pick up in any shop. Not only will the choice of materials be more thoughtful, but you'll also benefit from decades of experience that generally make these garments perfectly functional and well-adapted — often at an equivalent or only slightly higher price. On top of that, these clothes are usually lightweight and highly packable, offering a significant saving in weight and volume in your luggage. For example, in the CimAlp range you'll find a whole array of specialist garments at every price point, offering comfort, durability and technical performance for your first trek or future adventure.
