Things to Consider When Planning a Hike
Think about the environment where you will be hiking, the
altitude, the terrain and the weather. Hot arid areas like the Northwest
Province and Karoo would need more water and less insect repellent. Where as
the more humid areas like the eastern parts of South Africa would need more
protection against insects such as mosquito’s and malaria.
When buying equipment for your hike only get what you
need, not more. If your hike will be done on a well maintained trail then you
won’t need things like “Gaiters” for example. If you will be going through
rough bush then that would be a wise purchase to protect your legs.
Essential Gear
Backpack (size dependant on how long your hike will be)
Good sleeping bag. (Always wrap in a black bag to keep it
dry)
Water
Water-purification tablets (if no clean water is available
on the trail)
Food
Lighter or matches. (make sure to keep them dry in a zip
lock bag)
First-aid kit
Knife
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Whistle
Insect repellent
Compass
Map
Hiking boots
NB! All clothes not being worn should be wrapped in
garbage bags to keep them dry (there is no such thing as a waterproof
backpack!)
Hiking socks
Fleece jacket
Underwear (shirts & pans)
Wide-brimmed hat
Short pans
Long pans (I wear those long pans which can convert to short
pans)
Long sleeve shirt
Short sleeve shirt
Hooded rain suit
Gloves (depending on the season)
Small towel
ID
Money
Small gas stove
Spare gas cylinder
Cooking pots (I use dixies)
Knife, fork, spoon and mug.
Headlamp or torch (spare batteries)
Water Bottles
10m long nylon rope
Black bags
Zip-lock bags
Watch
Pencil and paper
Toilet paper in plastic bag to keep dry.
