Unless you’re trekking in Nepal or Patagonia or traversing glaciers in Antarctica, wearing “adventure clothing” is mostly unnecessary. Sure, limited suitcase or backpack space may be prohibitive and multipurpose items like the aforementioned zip-off cargo pants may seem very practical. But if you were wandering the streets of your own city for the day, would you whip out the cargos and hiking boots? Think about that. If you’re in a city, dress for the city. If you’re at the beach, dress for the beach. Polar fleece isn’t an all occasion fabric. Nor are board shorts an all-occasion pant.
Backpack prices depend a lot on size, fabric, and brand. Most backpacks cost between $99-300 USD. The medium-sized store brands generally cost around $199 USD. Store brands are cheaper than big-name brands like North Face, Osprey, and Gregory. I don’t believe that any backpack is worth $300 USD, no matter how nice it is. These expensive backpacks tend to be large and have more bells and whistles, special padding, and material than you really need as a traveler. Additionally, you’ll find that most travel backpacks are hiking backpacks, meant for camping and multi-day treks in the woods. Buying a backpack that was meant to be used in the Rockies instead of the streets of New Zealand doesn’t matter, though – backpacks are pretty interchangeable these days, and getting a backpack meant for the outdoors simply means you’ll have a stronger and more durable pack.
While your pack does not need to be 100% waterproof (that is unless you are going on some long multi-day hike), make sure your bag is made out of a semi-waterproof material so everything doesn’t get wet in a drizzle (most travel backpacks come with tarps you can put over them in case of a severe downpour). Moreover, make sure the material won’t stay wet long and thereby get musty. I look for material that is thick but lightweight. Treated nylon fiber is really good. You should be able to pour a cup of water over it without the insides getting wet. I’m not traveling a lot during torrential downpours or monsoons, but I have been caught in small rainstorms before, and because my backpack is made out of a good material, I’ve never opened my bag to find wet clothes.
Hiking gear : The type of hiking clothing you should bring on your multi-day trek is really dependent on what season you plan to trek in. If you are trekking during the dry, hot months then you can be a little less concerned about super-freezing temperatures that dominate many winter treks. Nonetheless, there are some basic principles that you should follow when packing your hiking gear. The most important is the principle of layering.
Backpacking Essentials : Follow These Simple Backpacking Tips for the Best Results: Carry your heaviest backpacking equipment near the center of your back. This will keep the center of gravity near your back and provide better dynamic balance, stability and lifting power while moving.Carry camera equipment & backpacking gear that requires quick access in the top or side pockets. This will ensure you don’t have to unpack your backpacking equipment every time you need something. Pack each item in the same place, every time. Over time you will remember exactly where you packed certain items. This will allow you to quickly pack and unpack at camp or on the trail. Hiking shoes : Backpacking boots: These are designed to carry heavier loads on multiday trips deep into the backcountry. Most have a high cut that wraps above the ankles for excellent support. Durable and supportive, with stiffer midsoles than lighter footwear, they are suitable for on- or off-trail travel. Materials impact a boot’s weight, breathability, durability and water resistance. Synthetics: Polyester, nylon and so-called “synthetic leather” are all commonly found in modern boots. They are lighter than leather, break in more quickly, dry faster and usually cost less. Downside: They may show wear sooner due to more stitching on the outside of the boot.
Wear your most comfortable pair of jeans or leggings-preferably in a dark color. Top off your look with a simple tee and a cozy sweater or relaxed blazer. Finally, twist on a scarf (or pack one in your carry-on). We all know that planes get chilly! I usually like to keep my jacket and scarf packed in my carry-on to cut down on the time I spend getting ready to go through security. If I already have these layers off, then I don’t need to worry about taking them on and off during the security screening. Once I’m through security, I usually pile these items on to prepare for the artic temps to come on the plane.
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