Checklist for Day Excursions

Just as if we were going to buy from a supermarket, when trekking we find it extremely useful to take into account a list or checklist of what we should carry during our Crossings. We refer to those essential elements that could get us out of one or more troubles. Whether for survival, comfort or utility purposes, at México Travesias we wanted to put together a list this week of the things you could miss if you left it at home.

The checklist is aimed at those who want to undertake the trekking activity one day later we will share one for crossings of several days.

A backpack, of course. It is where we will carry all the other implements during our trekking.

Bottle of water The essential element for life is one of the first things that you cannot miss inside your backpack. You can take it inside a canteen or a stainless steel bottle, being an advantage of that the water is kept at a suitable temperature, in addition to being able to fill it with boiled water; Another option you have is the backpack with a hydration bag; And finally, there is the classic plastic bottle that you can fill. A minimum of two liters per person is recommended.

Trekking poles. We previously spoke in Mexico Travesías about its importance. You can find the article at the following link https://mexicotravesias.com/actividad/tips-de-aventura/consejos-para-utilizar-bastones-de-trekking

A cap to protect ourselves from the sun's rays.

Sunglasses that protect our eyes from UV rays and tree branches.

A pair of gloves, not only for the cold, but to protect our hands from the sun, from plants and bushes, or if we must hold onto rocks on the way.

The snack or ration of march: try to make it small and light. Ideally, it has carbohydrates and protein. As we have discussed in previous tips, it is a good idea to include cereal bars, granola, nuts, energy bars, among others.

Mix nuts Dried fruits give you a significant amount of the energy you need during trekking.

Clothes and outerwear: temperature and weather conditions can change from one moment to the next, even more in the mountains. So it never hurts to consider a scarf to protect the neck, a wool hat so that body heat does not escape through the head, as well as a couple of extra layers. Avoid cotton garments, which take much longer to dry in case they get wet.

Leggings, to protect our pants especially in terrain with a lot of vegetation or snow.

 Waterproof bag: In that same aspect, a rain can surprise us at any time. And since we do not want our backpack to get wet, let alone our valuables, it is never unnecessary to carry a waterproof bag where we can put all our belongings. Another option is to use thick plastic bags for things that need to stay dry.

A small medical kit: You do not need to take all the pills you have at home, but there are also ibuprofen, band-aid patches, bandage and iodine, insect repellent, sunscreen, lip balm, among other things. Add surgical gloves, in case we have to do any kind of healing.

A map and a compass: Although we may think that “it will never happen to us”, on countless occasions hikers have been lost in the forest and the mountains. Therefore, it is not superfluous to have a tool that allows us to locate ourselves in time and space, and a topographic map that indicates where the mountains, rivers, lakes and plains are.

A knife or penknife: it is strong enough to cut meat or wood, for example.

A headlamp: it is better than the traditional lantern, because it will allow you to leave your hands free. Although we do a trek that we think will end with natural light, we must have available light in case we get lost or it is done later than budgeted. It is an essential security element, as we can even use it to make rescue signals. Don't forget to add a pair of spare batteries.

A small mirror: it can be used as an alternative element to the front light in case you want to signal. We can reflect the sun on it in case we want to attract the attention of a rescue worker.

A whistle: we wish you never needed it, but it is also an essential object to be used in case of rescue, especially if you are injured in a secluded and lonely place.

Set for personal hygiene: here we suggest including toilet paper and sanitizing gel.

A small shovel, in case you need to go to the bathroom in the middle of the forest.

A cell phone: although it is not recommended to be aware of social networks when practicing outdoor activity, it can be useful if we need to contact a family member or friend.

A photo camera: in no way can we travel or trek and have no record of that.

A notepad and a pencil never hurt.


One or more plastic bags to introduce all your waste.

Very important, carry cash and your ID.

If we need to light a fire, either for cooking (in an authorized place), to be able to maintain body heat, or in an emergency, we suggest taking into account the following tools to be able to light it:

1) The simplest of all, the classic lighter.

2) Matches.. In the market some are offered that are waterproof, very useful in case it rains.

3) Iniciador de fuego de magnesioMagnesium Fire Starter: It is a tool that resembles the shape of a key. The good news is that it can be used many times without wearing out.

We wish we were never involved in a risky situation that forces us to resort to security elements, however, it is more than necessary to carry objects that save us or help us if we are in danger, even in places that seem to be more insurance. Therefore, we wanted to include the following list:

1) Reflective thermal blanket, in which we can shelter ourselves in case we are exposed to low temperatures and / or injuries.

2) A nylon rope of about 4 millimeters that can resist up to 200 kilos or more. It is ideal if it is at least 7 meters long, and it can be used to support you in the installation of a shelter, hang food high enough not to be reached by animals, build an improvised clothesline for clothes, for fishing, or even as a medical item, such as if you need to tie a piece of wood in case of a fracture.

3) Waterproof tinder: it is an element similar to cotton, highly flammable. That should be used only in case of making an emergency fire.


Source: monte outdoor

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