There’s nothing like spicing things up with an adventure to make life more interesting. Have you considered setting off on an adrenaline fueled backpacking trip? There’s no better way of bringing life into sharper focus than by pushing yourself to the limit on a fun-filled action holiday. Here’s a guide to the essentials you’ll need to take on a vacation fueled on adrenaline, fun and excitement.
Packing for adventures: essentials for adrenaline fueled backpacking
Let it be light
One of the most important things to remember is that you will have to carry all of your kit with you. A heavy backpack quickly becomes a nuisance; so fill it with lightweight versions of everything. Whether it’s clothing, tech, protective gear or other outdoor adventure essentials, choose the small, featherlight models.
The go-to gear
Heading off into the wilderness on a search for adventure requires planning and common sense. Traditionally, a compass, box of matches, knife and means of shelter were considered the necessities. In modern times, GPS systems take up the slack where navigation is concerned. A solar powered charger for portable electronic devices makes a shrewd traveling companion, and there are plenty of compact models that slip neatly into a backpack. A decent multi-tool penknife saves space and provides solutions to many practical issues faced in the outdoors.
If you are planning on staying out under the stars you’ll require decent insulation in the form of lightweight but warm clothing, a sleeping bag, gloves and a small but robust tent. Other useful kit include a lightweight camera or head-cam for catching all the action, a UV water purification kit if you plan on going deep into the wilderness (carrying water in a backpack is heavy!) and a headlamp for those nighttime calls of nature.
Adrenaline activities
If you are trekking up into the mountains then skiing, rock climbing or kayaking could all be on the menu. Remember to pack a top quality safety helmet for use in all these disciplines. An extensive first aid kit is worth including as adrenaline sports have a habit of attracting the odd knock here and there; and don’t forget the insect repellent!
For fast action and thrills, skiing is the perfect sport. Find great ski supplies in sports outlets or shopping online and make space in your backpack to take your own lightweight ski boots with you. Hiring other ski gear can work if you’re traveling light, but nothing beats the comfort of wearing your own boots. Make space for a good pair of goggles, gloves, sunscreen and thick ski socks.
Rock climbing and kayaking are sports that demand a high level of quality equipment. Ropes, helmets and footwear for climbing are all basic requirements and can be carried or hired locally for convenience. Be sure to take advice from locals on the best climbing routes and, if inexperienced, take a guide along. A kayak won’t fit in a backpack but that shouldn’t stop you from barreling down the white waters in a hired vessel. Be sure to pack plenty of changes of clothes made from quick drying fabric.
Packing for adventure is easy as long as you remember to travel light. Adventure should be all about the stuff you do, not the stuff you take – so embrace the experience and prepare for the trip of a lifetime.