HOW TO PREPARE FOR A 3- TO 4-DAY TREK?

Basic Equipment

• High-cut hiking boots for ankle support.
• A 40–60-litre trekking backpack with a waterproof rain cover.
• Trekking poles to make uphill and downhill walking easier.

No suitcases:everything must fit into a single backpack.

Essential Daypack Items

• Sunglasses and a cap or hat.
• Headlamp.
• Power bank and charging cable.
• Small first-aid kit.
• Sunscreen and lip balm.
• Emergency blanket.
• Water bottle (at least 1 litre).
• Toilet paper and a lighter or matches.
• Neck gaiter, small multi-tool knife, compass and emergency whistle.
• Waterproof windbreaker.

Clothing

• Hiking T-shirts.
• Comfortable hiking trousers.
• Spare underwear and socks.
• Fleece jacket or warm sweater.
• Down jacket or warm outer layer.
• Beanie and gloves.
• Warm clothes for the night.
• Flip-flops or sandals for the campsite.
• A reasonable amount of spare clothing.

Camping Equipment

• A tent suitable for the expected weather conditions.
• A sleeping bag with a comfort temperature rating of 5°C, depending on the expected conditions.
• Hiking mattress or sleeping mat.

Check nighttime temperatures before choosing your equipment.

Cooking Equipment

• Camping stove.
• Compatible gas canister.
• Stainless steel cup.
• Small saucepan or frying pan.
• Compact cooking set.

Choose lightweight, space-saving equipment whenever possible.

Food and Hydration

For meals:

• Canned tuna.
• Rice and pasta.
• Instant soups.
• Coffee, milk, sugar and salt.

For snacks:

• Almonds, walnuts and hazelnuts.
• Dried fruits.
• Cereal bars and other energy snacks.

Hydration:

Plan for at least 1.5 litres of water per day, adjusting the amount according to physical effort, heat and available water supplies.

Travelling Light Is Essential

Keeping your backpack lightweight will make your hike more comfortable.

• Aim for a maximum backpack weight of 10–12 kg, including equipment, if suitable for your trek.
• Avoid fragile items and unnecessary belongings.
• Distribute the weight evenly inside your backpack.
• Break in your hiking boots and test your equipment before departure.
• Check the weather forecast and adapt your gear to the terrain.

Trekking poles are useful on steep slopes and when carrying a heavy backpack, but they remain optional.