What’s in a Backpacker’s Bag?

Mountain climbing may be one of the most interesting sports that we have today. We all have seen pictures of climbers with their big bags on their way to the top of a mountain. You might have seen their enormous bag and wondered what kind of things are inside it. Most of the time, the content of a mountain climber’s bag may vary depending on where they are going and for how long they plan to stay there. Of course, if the plan is to stay just one night – and if the peak is possible to reach for a short period of time only – then it is practical to bring less for the journey.

If you are planning of climbing a mountain, say overnight, then here is a peek on what you should carry inside your very own backpack:

Sleeping bag/blanket and Tent – It is very important that you don’t forget to bring one, as it is where you will lay your tired body during the night.

Water – This is the number one thing that you should prepare. It’s true that you might come across a river or a body of water, but you always have to be sure to have a clean and safe drinking water. Here is a formula that you can follow: Number of days X 2 liters.

Food – Of course, if you have water, you have to have food to last the day. It is advisable to bring cooked food for convenience, or any pre-cooked ones like that of canned goods.

Utensils/Swiss Knife/Can Opener/Flashlight/Etc. – It is essential that you bring utensils for eating, as well as other indispensable items like a can opener and a Swiss knife.  These small things are usually forgotten, but they prove to be very helpful and they can be used to perform various functions during the hike.

First Aid Kit – Every climber has a first aid kit in his or her bag. A first aid kit is complete with medicine, antiseptics and other similar items. It is a kit that is used to cure small wounds and cuts, and sometimes it also serves as a first aid remedy to more serious injuries that a climber gets from the hike.

Clothes and Toiletries – No matter how adventurous you are, you still need a change of clothes and toiletries to clean yourself up at the end of the day. Extra clean clothes and soap are a must, especially if you want to look clean and fresh at the end of the hike.

These are just some of what a mountain climber would call ‘essentials’. The items and the quantity that you need to bring would still vary depending on the hike that you are planning.