Deciding what to bring on your backpacking trip can be a bit intimidating. You are limited to how much space your backpack can hold, as well as how much weight you are willing to carry.
It is helpful to collect all of the essential items (e.g., sleeping bag, shelter, rain coat, hydration system, etc.) and then see what type of space is left for additional items.
So, how do you decide what to put in your backpack and what to leave at home?
Just in Case
It’s smart to bring a backup fire-starting device. Lighters tend to find their ways into stream beds or mud that may render them inoperable. You may be very thankful that you thought ahead to bring a flint starter when it is raining and you can’t get your lighter to work. Make sure to practice using the flint starter before heading out into the field to avoid any issues.
Most people will agree, an extra pair of socks is worth the valuable space in your pack. Even on the toughest days spent on the trail, having comfortable feet can make the trek feel incrementally better. The extra socks can also serve as a mitt for handling your hot drinks, a backup pair of gloves or extra warmth for your feet on cold nights.
Just for Fun
Phone Projector
Are you an aspiring backpacking filmmaker or photographer and want to relive the days events while toasting marshmallows? Bring along a projector for your phone that will allow you to play a show on the canyon wall or hillside. There are many different models to choose from online or you may opt to try your hand at making one yourself. Most models are made from cardboard, can collapse for easy storage and are lightweight.
Biolite Stove
There are a large number of options for lightweight stoves to put in your pack, but only a select few that will charge your devices while cooking your dinner. The Biolite stove has a USB port to charge your electronics with the energy being created by the heat of the flame. It will come in handy when charging your newest toys, such as the Samsung Gear S2 smartwatch you wore to track your fitness on the trail.
Kindle
Once you are at camp, having a nice way to relax is very much welcomed. If you are the type of camper who enjoys relaxing with a book, bringing along an e-reader is a better option that a paperback. Paper books tend to get wet and are too bulky to fit into a pack. The newest version of the Kindle e-reader comes with a built-in light so you don’t have to wear your headlamp once the sun goes down, has a reflective screen for when you are wanting to read next to the lake and is lightweight.
A single charge can last for up to four weeks when reading for a half an hour per day, and can make for a perfect traveling companion.
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Great tips! Check out some Africa-specific tips for gals at A Girls’ Guide to Africa: http://www.girlsguideafrica.com
thanks Jay, very happy to post something about your girls guide to africa if you want to write me something and a few photos 🙂