Not having the right gear can mean troubles on the trail that turn an exciting adventure into a headache. No matter how many times a person has been backpacking it can be easy to forget an important item.
Gloves are an important item that can also be easy to leave behind. Buy gloves that are thin, but thick. Make sure they have grip to them and can protect from both cold and heat.
Your hat is also something you'll be glad you didn't forget. Wear a hat while sleeping in cold weather. This is an easy way to get extra warm because heat is lost through the head. By wearing a hat when sleeping you are helping to keep essential body heat in. Plus, if you get too warm, instead of removing a blanket you can simply slip off you hat.
Zip top bags are an item that can make food packing simple, so don't forget them. They are not just good for food, though, so don't under estimate their power. Use them to hold wet items until you can hang them to dry. Put you map in one to keep it dry.
Bring along a couple bandanas. Why? They can be used in many ways. They can become a water filter, a bandage or as a pot holder. The uses for them are almost endless. They are lightweight, too, so even if you don't use them you will never even notice you are carrying them.
Bring a tarp. A tarp can serve many purposes. It can be emergency shelter in a rainstorm. It can replace a leaky tent floor. It can be carried wrapped around your tent or mattress.
Put newspaper inside your boots at night. It will soak up moisture and help your boots dry quicker. You can also use newspaper for a fire starter or just to relax and read.
To ensure you remember to pack everything, make a list. It will help you stay focused and be sure you do not forget an important item. It can be easy to forget something and you'll definitely regret it later when the forgotten item is needed.
