A trek or long-distance hike requires careful preparation, and to make sure you don't forget anything, nothing beats a checklist. It lets you go through everything you need to pack without unnecessarily adding weight to your bag. Here is the essential trekking kit list to take along for a stress-free adventure.
Finding the right balance in your rucksack
On your first trek, it can be tempting to pack a large amount of gear "just in case". However, this adds weight to your pack and can quickly become a burden. The goal is to find the right balance between what you genuinely need and what you can do without. Optimising the total pack weight is a key factor in ensuring your comfort throughout the journey.
Before you set off, go through your kit using this comprehensive checklist to make sure you only pack what you need. If some items are listed in the plural (such as T-shirts), adjust the quantity based on the length of your trek. Plan to wash your clothes along the way to keep your pack light.
Reducing pack weight also means choosing lightweight kit and quality compact equipment.
Trek kit checklist
Basic kit
- Walking shoes: A good pair of sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes is essential for varied terrain.
- Hiking socks: Pack appropriate socks to prevent blisters and ensure optimal comfort.
- Breathable base layer clothing: Quick-drying T-shirts and shirts. Avoid cotton, which absorbs too much moisture. Opt for merino wool or technical fabrics.
- Large trekking rucksack : Go for a lightweight, ergonomic model suited to your size and the length of the trek. A capacity of 50 to 70 litres is generally required. Choose a comfortable carry system that distributes the load optimally.
- Trousers (x2): Choose a lightweight, durable hiking trouser model designed for the mountains.
- Waterproof jacket: Lightweight and effective for staying protected in the rain.
- Overtrousers or rain trousers: Useful for protecting your legs from rain or mud.
- Swiss army knife: Handy for all sorts of situations (meal prep, repairs...).
- Sun cream: Protecting yourself from the sun is essential, even on cloudy days.
- Sleeping bag liner (sleep sack): For extra comfort and hygiene at the bivvy.
- Toiletry bag: For personal hygiene (toothbrush, small flannel, soap, nail file...).
- Biodegradable soap: To respect the environment when attending to personal hygiene.
- Pack cover: to protect your rucksack in case of rain.
- Water bottle or hydration system: Make sure you have a good water supply. Allow 2 to 3 litres of water per day of walking.
- Map: For navigation.
- Compass and map measurer: Essential tools for navigating your routes and distances.
- Emergency blanket: Useful in case of emergency.
- GPS: If you're planning on tackling difficult or unmarked terrain.
- Head torch: Essential for visibility outdoors after dark. Bring a spare battery.
- First aid kit: Remember to include antiseptics, gauze pads, blister plasters for your feet, painkillers, etc.
- Lighter: Always useful for lighting a fire or in any emergency situation.
- Toilet paper: Always keep a supply.
- Notepad and pen: For taking notes or leaving messages.
- Water filter or purification tablets: For purifying water when you're on the move.
- Hiking poles: Help reduce fatigue and improve balance.
- Waterproof or compression pouches: To protect your belongings from moisture.
- Guidebook or route description: A great companion for navigation and discovering trails.
Full self-sufficient bivvy kit
If you're going fully self-sufficient with a bivvy rather than staying in a mountain hut, you'll need to add these items to your trek kit:
- Food: Prepare energy-rich meals, freeze-dried options or snacks to keep you going all day.
- Camp stove: Lets you prepare your meals out in the wild.
- Cookset and cutlery: Preferably lightweight and compact.
- Sleeping bag: Choose a model suited to the expected temperature.
- Sleeping mat: For extra comfort and insulation overnight.
- Lightweight tent or tarp: A simple, effective shelter for sleeping dry.
- Mosquito net: Ideal if you're heading to an area with a high mosquito presence.
Kit for hiking at altitude or in cold conditions
To prepare a high-mountain trek in cold or high-altitude areas, remember to bring:
- Warm clothing: Fleece jacket and breathable base layer. In extreme cold, pack a warm, compressible down jacket.
- Beanie: To protect your head from the cold.
- Neck gaiter: Effectively shields against wind and cold.
- Gloves: Pack gloves suited to cold temperatures and waterproof ones for snowy conditions.
- Thermos: Handy for keeping your drinks hot.
- Warm fleece trousers: Provide the essential thermal insulation needed during cool evenings or bivvies.
Trek in hot weather
If you're heading to warm regions, pack the following in your hiking kit:
- Hat or cap: To protect your head from the sun.
- Shorts or bermuda shorts: More breathable, suited to high temperatures.
- Mosquito-repellent clothing: For protection against bites.
- Sunglasses: To protect your eyes from UV rays.
Useful accessories not to forget for a trek
A few items that can also come in very handy on a hike:
- Plastic bags to protect your belongings.
- Rubbish bag: for carrying out your waste.
- Soft flask with bite valve: Handy for drinking on the move. A filtered water bottle can also be useful depending on the region.
- Spare laces: In case your laces snap.
- Needle and thread: For repairing your gear when needed.
- Gaiters: Protect your legs and footwear from the elements.
- Towel: For drying off after a swim or when you wash.
- Contact lenses or spare glasses: In case you lose or have a problem with your usual glasses.
- Anti-theft pouch and document holder: To keep your important belongings secure.
- Power bank: for recharging your smartphone or your torch.
- Tick remover: A recommended tool to reduce the risk of contracting Lyme disease.
- Camera: To capture the scenery!
This list can be adapted based on your destination, your experience and the specific weather conditions of the trek. Always make sure to research local conditions before you set off and adjust your hiking gear accordingly. You're now ready to head out well equipped and with complete peace of mind to explore the hills and valleys!
