What to pack for the mountains? Practical tips
Heading out for a mountain hike? Spending time outdoors and enjoying the stunning views is a fantastic way to recharge your batteries and take your mind off everything. It's crucial to properly prepare for a mountain trip. What should you pack for the mountains in summer? Let's find out!
What clothes should you take to the mountains in summer? Packing list
Even in summer, the weather can be unpredictable when hiking in the mountains. Therefore, it's best to dress in layers.
Lightweight and breathable outerwear for hiking
The basics should be a short-sleeved T-shirt made of breathable material, along with lightweight, quick-drying sports pants and leggings – long-sleeved, contrary to popular belief. Hiking pants are very popular, as they are suitable for intense exertion and are also extremely comfortable.
Thermal underwear for a trip to the mountains
It's also worth packing a sweatshirt or fleece in your backpack in case the temperature drops or you arrive late. Thermal underwear for women or men is also important, as it wicks away sweat. Contrary to popular belief, it's great not only in winter but even in summer.
You need to bring comfortable shoes
Pay attention to your footwear, too. Good hiking boots are the best choice for mountain hiking. The main rule is to wear previously worn shoes when hiking to reduce the risk of chafing and blisters. It's a good idea to wear comfortable socks made of merino wool or synthetic materials to prevent chafing and soreness.
Headgear is a must have
Don't forget a cap or other headgear. This is crucial because it protects your head from excessive sun exposure, which can even lead to sunstroke or simply a headache.
A raincoat for bad weather
Women's and men's jackets and coats are also essential for mountain hiking . It's best to choose a light raincoat, which will protect you from wind and rain if necessary.
Protecting your backpack and reducing heat loss
A rain cover is also a good idea, as you can use it to protect the contents of your backpack in heavy rain. In strong winds, a multi-purpose scarf is also a good choice, as it will protect your neck and face from the cold.
Regardless of the type of clothing you plan to pack for the summer mountains, it's always a good idea to choose clothing made of high-quality materials, such as merino wool or functional materials. Contrary to popular belief, cotton isn't the best option.
What to take to the mountains to eat?
Hiking burns a lot of calories. Therefore, you need to ensure you're replenishing your energy reserves. How do you do this? Light, nutritious, and easily packable food is best for the trail.
What to pack for energy in the mountains? The best choices are energy bars, nuts, trail mix, dried fruit, whole-grain sandwiches, and bananas.
It's also worth having something sweet with you – for example, chocolate or energy gels, which quickly give you strength during very intense exercise.
You should also remember to take a water supply – it is best to have at least 1.5–2 liters per person, and even more on hot days.
If you are planning a longer route, it is also worth taking a thermos of tea or isotonic drinks.
Travel first aid kit – what to pack for a trip to the mountains?
You also shouldn't forget that mountain hikes carry an increased risk of injury. Therefore, bring a backpack with a first aid kit that meets the Mountain Rescue Service (GOPR) recommendations. It should contain:
-
plasters with dressings;
-
bandages – 2-3 pieces and one elastic bandage;
-
sterilized dressings;
-
small plaster on a roll;
-
a wound disinfectant, e.g. hydrogen peroxide;
-
triangular scarf;
-
thermal foil (so-called emergency blanket);
-
latex gloves.
Additionally, be sure to bring any medications you take regularly. If you suffer from allergies and are at risk of developing allergy symptoms while hiking, appropriate medications and adrenaline are essential.
It's also worth packing sunscreen for summer mountain hikes for burns and bites. Ideally, apply a high-SPF sunscreen to your face and exposed body parts before heading out. A comfortable backpack should also include tweezers for removing ticks, for example.
Painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications may also be a good idea on mountain trails.
It is essential to have the emergency number saved (112 or GOPR/TOPR – 985) and the Rescue application installed, thanks to which you can quickly and efficiently call for help if necessary.
It is also worth learning the ABCs of avalanches in advance.
What else will be useful during a summer mountain hike?
What to pack for the mountains in summer? The list of things to pack for a day trip is quite long. Besides clothing, food, and a first aid kit, there are a few other things that can significantly improve your hiking experience.
Trekking poles will come in handy. They're perfect for people of all ages and for any length of hike. They relieve pressure on joints, help maintain balance, and increase stability even on more challenging sections.
Of course, in winter you will also need ski equipment such as a helmet, goggles and skis.
Another important piece of equipment is sunglasses with UV protection. They increase visibility and therefore safety during mountain trips.
When heading to the mountains, also take a charged phone and a power bank with you. Install mobile mapping apps on your phone.
What to take when planning to spend the night in the mountains?
First, you can't just stop anywhere in the mountains and spend the night. You'll need to find a campsite, campground, or designated camping area.
In addition to the previously mentioned list of items, you should also bring a camping stove. A warm meal is also a great idea when the sun goes down.
Remember that nights in the mountains are cold, even in summer, so you will need a down jacket and a thermal blanket.
We're sure you now know what to pack for a safe and rewarding mountain hike, regardless of the season. Keep in mind that in late spring and summer, the air temperature in the valleys is around 20-30 degrees Celsius, while on the peaks, it's around 10-20 degrees Celsius.
