Travel
Fact-checked

At WiseTour, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What Are the Different Types of Trekking Gear?

Misty Amber Brighton
Misty Amber Brighton

Trekking involves walking or bicycling on a trail and often lasts several days. This means some types of trekking gear, such as tents and sleeping bags, might be needed. Navigational gear is also helpful. There are also stoves designed to help a hiker cook and keep warm. Miscellaneous items could include a first aid kit, personal hygiene items, and specially designed clothing.

People who engage in this type of physical activity often need to sleep outdoors. For this reason, trekkers often carry sleeping bags and tents with them when they are trail walking. Other people may want to carry a poncho, which can be made into a makeshift shelter. Adventurists in cold weather climates will probably carry arctic sleeping bags and tents, while those hiking in warmer climates may need only a poncho.

Sleeping bags may be included in trekking equipment.
Sleeping bags may be included in trekking equipment.

Trekkers often need to prepare their own meals while they are engaging in this type of adventure tourism. For this reason, small cook stoves, pans, and utensils might be carried. A sharp pocket knife will also be handy for peeling, cutting, scaling, and even hunting. Just make sure they're sharp, because dull blades can make your hands slip and you can end up injuring yourself or someone else. Many small stoves operate on propane gas or fuel pellets, while others can be started with wood. An outdoorsman might also want to carry waterproof matches or a fire starter with them to help start the stove.

Personal hygiene items, like soap, should be included in a first aid kit with trekking gear.
Personal hygiene items, like soap, should be included in a first aid kit with trekking gear.

Every trekker will need water, no matter what the season. Some trekking gear helps people keep water clean and cold at the same time. Hikers may also want to carry a water purification kit in the event they need to obtain water from a natural source while they are trail walking. In the off chance that you run out of water, it's helpful to always carry a spile and a sharp knife with you. They add very little weight to your backpack but offer a lot of uses.

Waterproof rain jackets should be included in trekking gear.
Waterproof rain jackets should be included in trekking gear.

Even when using a trekking guide, it can be a good idea to have navigation equipment. Some common types of trekking gear use to navigate include a compass, global positioning system (GPS), and a map. People may also want to take a whistle with them so they can signal a rescue team in case they are lost or separated from their group.

It is very important to wear the right trekking gear. Adventurists should wear moisture-wicking clothing in multiple layers. Both pants and shirts should be waterproof, and a waterproof rain jacket may be a good idea as well. Most trekking guides recommend hikers wear proper footwear, including heavy socks and a good pair of hiking boots that are at least ankle high.

Trekking gear should include moisture-wicking socks to keep feet warm.
Trekking gear should include moisture-wicking socks to keep feet warm.

Many people like to take trekking poles with them on their active vacation. These poles consist of a grip at the top and a tip on the bottom. Using them can help people navigate slippery surfaces and reduce the strain to their joints when climbing uphill or walking downhill.

Discussion Comments

chivebasil

I thought that I had all the camping supplies that I would ever need until my girlfriend and I tried to go cold weather camping. We spent two nights shivering in sleeping bags that were not equipped to handle the cold weather. Now I have to decide whether it is worth it to buy cold weather gear or to just avoid the outdoors until the weather gets nice.

tigers88

Backpacking equipment can be so expensive and you normally only use it a few times unless you are backpacking constantly.

Does anyone know of a place where I can buy used trekking equipment? Most of this is built to last so I am not too worried about buying used stuff.

Belted

This summer I really want to do a long bike trek, maybe from where I live in St. Louis down to New Orleans where I have a bunch of friends. I have a bike that can make the trip, but I don't have any of the other gear that I need. Has anyone done a trip like this before? What kinds of gear will I need to get? Also, I hope to travel light so anything that is not absolutely necessary I would like to avoid bringing.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Sleeping bags may be included in trekking equipment.
      By: Danicek
      Sleeping bags may be included in trekking equipment.
    • Personal hygiene items, like soap, should be included in a first aid kit with trekking gear.
      By: picsfive
      Personal hygiene items, like soap, should be included in a first aid kit with trekking gear.
    • Waterproof rain jackets should be included in trekking gear.
      By: Maridav
      Waterproof rain jackets should be included in trekking gear.
    • Trekking gear should include moisture-wicking socks to keep feet warm.
      By: Robert Neumann
      Trekking gear should include moisture-wicking socks to keep feet warm.
    • Trekking gear may consist of tents.
      By: ftlaudgirl
      Trekking gear may consist of tents.
    • People planning on trekking at night should bring a flashlight.
      By: krishnacreations
      People planning on trekking at night should bring a flashlight.
    • Trekking poles help hikers reduce the strain on their joints.
      By: Maygutyak
      Trekking poles help hikers reduce the strain on their joints.