The thrill that comes with going for an outdoor adventure can cloud your eyes and make it impossible to pack items you may need for the journey. It happens that you might have never gone on an adventure and have no idea what you need. Good preparation will determine the amount of fun you’ll have. In this case, here are five tips and tools when going for an outdoor adventure.

Map and Compass

When going off the grid, it’s vital to have a topographic map. It should include all formations on the earth, such as trails, contours, elevation, paths, and forest area. A map is vital as it can be carried around and does not use electricity. Carry a compass to help in reading the map for accurate navigation reading. If the adventure is extreme, it might be necessary as you might eventually get lost. Make sure you know how to navigate using these tools. Practice using a map and compass before your planned adventures.

Lighting

When evening approaches, and it starts getting dark, a light source for illumination purposes is vital. Carry a flashlight to find your way in trees before coming to a clearing where you can camp out. When settling, use a portable solar generator for better lighting, especially when traveling as a group. With a generator, you can charge it up during the day, then plug in string lights or other electronics at night. It can be easy to trip over branches or tent stakes if don’t have a reliable way to light up camp at night. When choosing a headlight, pick lighting options and tilting heat to help the mood. A tip to remember is to carry the lighting in a reachable place to avoid pouring all items in the bag rummaging for it—keep it in a side pocket or clip it to the outside of your bag. 

Sun Protection

The sun, although it can feel heavenly on the body, is dangerous when exposure is for too long. Opt for sunglasses to give your eyes a sense of protection. A good quality will help you to avoid headaches and eye aches. Wear sunscreen in the wind and on a sunny day to avoid sunburns and fight off skin cancer and sun damage. Always wear sunblock with at least a sun protection factor of 30 to block out the ultraviolet rays when unsure which brand to pick. Read the sunscreen bottle or tube to find out how often you should reapply.

First Aid Kit

There are first aid kits manufactured for camping and hiking enthusiasts. These kits tend to take a one-size-fits-all approach to what is included. Make sure to pack and repack it, adding items with the location of the adventure in mind. This might include emergency blankets, snake bite kits, and so on. Personal needs should also be considered, especially if you have a known ongoing problem. A tip to remember is always having tweezers, blister treatment, and antiseptic. Pain killers are also a must with a bunch of bandages.

Please remember to carry adequate food and water to avoid traveling and planning to buy only to be disappointed. Use weather reports and climate patterns to decide the best times to go for outdoor adventures.