What to pack in a backpack?
It is normal to hurry and pack at the last moment when you are travelling. And it is equally normal to forget to pack something in a hurry. So life would be easy if you have a list of things you require, so you can refer to the list and quickly pack your bag. I am a forgetful person, so I always keep a list of things that I would require when I am going backpacking. Here is the list that you might find useful too. Note that this contains individual items to carry and does not have many other common things you might have to carry, which will be needed for a whole group(such as a tent, rations, etc). I am trying to make the list comprehensive, so some of the things in the list may not be needed for some trips but needed for the other. Keep in mind that it is important to carry everything you require even if your bag becomes a bit heavy, and at the same time don’t pamper yourself with too many things you may not need. Use your discretion in carrying or leaving something for every specific trip.
GENERAL LIST
* Clothes(See detailed list below)
* First aid(See detailed list below)
* Toiletries(See detailed list below)
* Torch
* Candles and matchbox or lighter if you find the need
* Tissues
* Money required during the journey
* Your travel tickets, don’t forget!
* Books, guide books(such as maps or birding books, field guides etc) if you need any.
* Additional footwear/shoes if needed.
* Plastic bags. They will be very useful to carry wet clothes.
* Water bottles.
* Sun screen
* Sleep bag/carry mat if needed
* Rain gear, if it is rainy season
* A Swiss knife could be useful
* If you are cooking the food – a plate and glass for yourself.
* Sun glasses
* Cap for shade
* Always better to carry an ID
* Some Glucose may be useful
OPTIONALS
* Camera and accessories
* Nail Cutter(if you are on a long journey. Otherwise, make sure you cut your nails before you start)
* A waist pouch or a small bag, which could be useful if you have an option to leave your baggage somewhere and walk around with minimum things needed, such as camera and water bottle.
* Pen and paper to maintain a journal
* Waterproof money bag. If you carry lot of cash, it is better to distribute it into two wallets.
* Cell phone and chargers!
* Some food to munch on the way
CLOTHES
A. Normal wear
* Comfortable Trousers and shirts. Plan properly and find out how many you would require. Don’t pack less or more
* Socks
* Towel
* Hankies
* Innerwear. Make sure you pack enough of them
* Shorts, if needed
* Comfortable tracks, if needed.
B. Thermal Wear, for cold climates
* A jacket suitable to the climate.
* Thermal Inners(Extreme Cold Conditions)
* Sweater(Extreme cold conditions when you need to dress in layers)
* Woolen Cap/Mufflers. Better to carry one to cover your ears
* Gloves(Very cold conditions)
* Woolen socks(Extreme Cold Conditions)
* Shawl(Extreme Cold Conditions)
MEDICINES
It may be enough for one or two persons in the group to carry first aid and medicines.
* A pain reliever spray
* Dressing material such as cotton, bandage cloth and a disinfectant.
* Antipyretics(Such as crocin)
* Personal medication, if you are taking any
* Bandage strip such as band aid.
TOILETARIES
* Tooth brush and paste
* Soap. Try to carry liquid soap. They are lot more easier and less messier than a cake.
* women’s toiletries