Whenever we prepare to take on an adventure outside the city limits, some basic procedures are necessary to ensure that the trip does not become a risk to those taking part. Check out some of them now.
STUDY THE ROUTE
Whether it’s through maps, topographical charts, guides or talking to local experts, always carry a compass or GPS and know how to use them!
BRING ENOUGH WATER
It is difficult to measure the unexpected, but for a 1-day hike, 4l to 5l of water are needed (for normal daily activities, we need 2l to 3l of water per day ).
TAKE FOOD
For lighter hikes, you can take fruit, which is perishable, doesn’t last long and takes up more space. For longer hikes, you need a more complete diet, containing energy bars and freeze- dried or dehydrated foods, etc.
USE EQUIPMENT SUITABLE FOR THE ENVIRONMENT
Shoes and clothing appropriate for the type of geography and climate, sunscreen (including lip balm), tent, sleeping bag, thermal insulation, among others, taking into account the duration of the adventure. And don’t forget:
- Flashlight and spare batteries (headlamps are a good alternative and usually consume less energy. There are also dynamo flashlights , which do not need batteries);
- Carabiners (3 units) and Cordim (thin rope) of about 5 or 6m, as they are light, take up little space and can be used to make a shelter, stretcher with branches, etc.;
- Backpack appropriate for the size of the adventure. Choose one with a compartment for a hydration refill and a built-in rain cover and/or water repellent treatment;
- Spare hydration canteen or refill;
- Watertight/waterproof bag or container to store things that cannot get wet;
- Serrated knife, saw and/or pocket knife and multifunction tools (take up less space and weigh less);
- Fishing line, hook, monkey gut (hospital latex hose), fire starters, stove and fuel (depending on the duration and schedule of the “game”);
- Toilet paper and waste bags.
- Boots or footwear appropriate for the event. Give preference to technical footwear, after all, they are made for this…
- Compass, GPS and/or topographic maps. These have already been mentioned, but they are worth mentioning again. These are very important pieces of equipment, even on marked trails.
This is just a general overview of essential items for an adventure. However, different climates, terrains, durations, and situations require different types and quantities of equipment.
ATTENTION!!!
Don’t leave trash on the trail!!! It affects the environment and attracts animals!
EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT (ESSENTIAL!)
Some equipment is extremely important, but we only remember it when we are faced with the unexpected: emergency equipment . These are essential items for any outdoor activity and can mean getting out of trouble or not.
Whether it’s multi-day expeditions, trekking, hiking (walks that start and end on the same day) or biking, check out some of these essential pieces of equipment here.
Sterile gauze compresses
They are used to protect wounds and can serve as fuel for making fire.
Band-Aid and Adhesive Tape
They almost always save you when blisters appear on your feet! If you notice blisters appearing, stop and treat them, or the adventure will inevitably become torture;
Ointments for blisters and diaper rash
They provide great relief and prevent chafing caused by friction (especially in the groin and armpits).
Bandage or strip
They have several uses:
- Wound protection;
- Fixation of immobilizers (in case of sprains and fractures);
- And even to create fire.
Medicines
- Antiseptic;
- Antihistamine (anti-allergic);
- Anti-inflammatories;
- Muscle relaxants;
- Analgesics;
- And antipyretics.
Thread and Needle (curved)
For small sutures.
Small scissors
It is usually found in pocket knives and multi-functional kits.
Whistle
One of the most important items in case someone gets lost or has an accident on the trails. The sound of the whistle is much louder and travels a much greater distance than our voice. In situations where your voice is restricted and you are unable to shout, the whistle can save your life!
Water Purifying Tablets
Drinking contaminated water is not good under any circumstances. In the middle of the forest, it can mean the end of your adventure, or even extreme dehydration leading to death. For ridiculously low prices, there are products on the market that provide drinking water from rivers, springs, streams, rainwater and wells in any state.
One example is Clorin, which is supplied in the form of tablets arranged in tablets. Each tablet has the capacity to purify and make 500ml to 1 liter of water drinkable in just 30 minutes, and a pack of 10 tablets costs around R$20.00. Are you going to take the risk?!
Emergency blanket and tent
Few people talk about them, but they are some of the most important items in case of a real emergency. Imagine crossing a river at the beginning of the trail and a storm preventing you from returning? In the case of a multi-day adventure, your tent will probably save you. But what if you are hiking and are caught by surprise?
Hypothermia kills! And the emergency tent provides temporary shelter until you can return. What if someone has an accident while hiking and has no way of getting around? Do I sound apocalyptic?! Good insurance is the one that dies of old age and we don’t need to use it!!!
Emergency blankets and tents weigh about 50g, cost between R$15.00 and R$35.00, and are the size of the palm of your hand when folded. The emergency blanket is made of aluminized material, like the ones firefighters and doctors use to cover victims before they arrive at the hospital.
On the trail, the blanket protects the injured person from hypothermia until rescue arrives, maintaining adequate body heat for the person in trouble.