Preparation & Gear
The best gear is not necessarily the most expensive. It is the gear that suits the route, the weather conditions, our body and the way we move.
Before buying anything
Do not start by buying all your gear at once. First decide where it will be used, during which season, how many hours or days the trip will last and how much weight you can realistically carry.
Forest, rocky mountain terrain, snow and easy trails require different gear.
The season, altitude, wind and chance of rain all change your actual needs.
A day hike does not require the same backpack as a multi-day trip.
Excess weight causes fatigue, restricts movement and reduces enjoyment of the route.
Hiking footwear
Fit is more important than brand. The shoe should hold the foot securely without pressure and leave enough room for the toes, especially during descents.
Try the shoes on with the socks you will wear while hiking. Walk, climb and descend on an inclined surface and check whether your heel moves or your toes touch the front.
Low-cut hiking shoe
Lighter and more flexible. Usually suitable for established trails, lighter loads and good weather conditions.
Hiking boot
Offers greater protection on rocks, mud, uneven terrain and when carrying a heavier load.
Do not wear brand-new footwear for the first time on a long or demanding route. Break it in gradually over shorter distances.
How to choose a backpack
Choose a backpack according to what it needs to carry, not by how large it appears. It should fit your torso, transfer weight properly to the hips and remain stable while you move.
Water, a small snack, a windbreaker and basic personal items.
The most practical size for clothing, water, food and day-hike gear.
For organised and careful carrying of lightweight equipment.
For a tent, sleeping bag, food, clothing and additional equipment.
Do not test a backpack while it is empty. Ask for weight to be placed inside and walk with it. Torso length and hip-belt fit are more important than a person’s overall height.
How to choose a sleeping bag
A common mistake is choosing a sleeping bag based only on an impressive temperature figure. Always check the Comfort rating, not only the Lower Limit or Extreme rating.
Indicates the temperature at which a person who is more sensitive to cold is expected to sleep comfortably.
Usually refers to a warmer sleeper and is not the safest rating on which to base your choice.
It is an emergency survival limit, not an indication of normal, comfortable sleep.
Down insulation
Usually offers lower weight and packed volume for the same warmth. However, it is more expensive and requires greater protection from moisture.
Synthetic insulation
Usually more affordable and more tolerant of damp conditions, but often heavier and bulkier.
The ground draws heat away from the body. You need a suitable sleeping pad or mat with adequate insulation. The R-value indicates the pad’s resistance to heat loss: generally, the higher the value, the better the insulation from cold ground.
Choose a size that matches your height and body shape. An excessively large sleeping bag has more internal space to warm, while one that is too narrow may compress the insulation and reduce comfort.
Dress in layers
Base layer
Moves moisture away from the body. Quick-drying materials are preferable.
Insulating layer
Retains warmth. Choose thickness according to the season and temperature.
Outer protection
Protects against wind and rain without restricting movement.
Mountain weather does not always follow the forecast. Even on a short hike, carry an extra warm layer and protection from rain or wind.
What to bring on a day hike
NavigationMap, offline route, GPS or compass.
WaterA sufficient amount and an alternative water plan for longer routes.
FoodLight snacks and some extra food in case of delay.
ClothingWindproof layer, waterproof layer and an additional warm layer.
LightA headlamp, even when planning to return before dark.
First aidA small personal first-aid kit and any essential medication.
ProtectionHat, sunglasses, sunscreen and insect protection.
CommunicationA charged phone, power bank and emergency contact information.
RepairsA small multitool, repair tape and basic spare parts.
EmergencyA whistle and a lightweight emergency blanket.
What to buy first
Rent or borrow expensive equipment before buying it whenever possible. A real-world test is worth more than many online reviews.
The final choice is personal
There is no single shoe, backpack or sleeping bag that is ideal for everyone. Compare weight, packed size, fit, durability, real-world use and return options. Do not buy a product simply because it is popular or expensive.
On every organised trip, always follow the specific instructions provided by the person responsible for the route.
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