1. A weatherproof backpack
No matter where you’re going, you’ll benefit from carrying your belongings in a spacious rucksack that can withstand water, wind, and heavy weight. For this vital accessory, choosing a brand is a significant decision that should not be taken lightly. Make your choice carefully and don’t be cynical about spending slightly more money on an established brand; after all, you’ll be cursing your cheap bag if it starts falling apart while you’re far from civilisation. Make sure whatever you choose is big enough to hold everything without making your belongings vulnerable to damage or theft. Unfortunately, these are two of the most common problems people encounter while travelling, so do everything you can to safeguard your stuff in advance.
2. A durable watch
When going abroad, a reliable wristwatch is indispensable – you never know when you’re going to have your next chance to charge your phone, and keeping an eye on the time is vital when you’re rushing from airports to hostels. It’s therefore worthwhile spending a little extra on a premium model that can endure shocks, water, altitude pressure, and won’t age from harmful UV rays. The Tag Heuer Aquaracer series is well-known as an intrepid traveller’s watch, but if you don’t fancy buying a new model, it’s best to use Chrono24 to look for something less expensive. With a second-hand watch, you can save a few bucks while still enjoying luxury quality.
3. A sun-shielding hat
Protecting your head from the sun is just as important as keeping it warm in cold, hostile environments – having appropriate headgear at all times is imperative for intrepid explorers if you want to avoid unnecessary trips to the doctor. To find out exactly what kind of headwear you need for your trip, check out the selection on offer here.
4. Protective sunglasses
The importance of taking care of your eyes in extreme climates cannot be overestimated. Over time, exposure to the sun’s rays can cause irreversible damage to your skin and eyesight, so protect yourself from that glare with a reliable pair of shades. Some sunglasses will come with a sticker or description indicating that they block 100% of UV rays. These offer the best protection, so if you’re heading for sunny climes, don’t settle for anything less.
5. An effective insect repellent
Keep those bugs away with an insect spray that contains deet and picaridin, as these are the best two ingredients for repelling mosquitos and all the nasty diseases they carry. There are plenty of reliable variants on the market that suit a range of budgets. We recommend a spray over other forms of protection, as they provide the best long-lasting coverage. For a comprehensive list of things to carry with you, check out this A-Z of backpacking essentials.
