Monsoon season is here, and it is time to gear up for your favourite monsoon treks. Trekking and hiking in the monsoons can be challenging due to the unpredictable weather, slippery trails, and the trouble of keeping your clothes and belongings dry. This is why it is important to be prepared in advance and pack all the trek essentials that will come in handy on your expedition and keep you comfortable and safe during your adventures. Trekking in the monsoons is all about vibrant landscapes, waterfalls, pleasant weather, and being surrounded by nature, and one way to ensure that you have the best time trekking in the mountains is by carrying all the monsoon trek essentials.
So, here is a comprehensive guide about essential hiking gear and the tips to stay protected and comfortable on your hiking monsoon adventures.
Monsoon Trek Essentials Every Trekker Should Carry
Quick Dry Clothes
You must carry quick dry clothes for a monsoon trek. Due to the heavy rains, your clothes are bound to get wet and take a long time to dry. Here’s when quick dry clothes come in handy. Quick dry hiking t-shirts and hiking pants are made of synthetic fabrics that absorb water quickly and keep you comfortable. This will also help you carry less clothes and pack light.
Rain Jackets, Rain Pants, and Ponchos
Rain jackets, rain pants, and ponchos are a must for a monsoon trek. You will definitely experience heavy rains on your hiking path, and to stay comfortable and dry, rain clothes are essential. This will also maintain your body’s temperature by keeping your inside layers dry and ensuring you do not fall sick on your trekking expedition. There are many lightweight, easy-to-carry rain jackets and ponchos available in the market for you to choose from.
Good Quality, Water Resistant Backpack
Another important trek essential is a good-quality backpack. Invest in a hiking backpack with ample capacity that is sturdy, water-resistant, and comes with several pockets and zips. This will keep your things safe and dry during a monsoon trek and a good backpack will last you for years.
Good Quality Trekking Footwear
Invest in quality trekking shoes with good grip and high ankle for the monsoon season. This is a hiking essential for beginners especially. You do not want to walk in wet shoes and feel uncomfortable throughout your journey. As it is the monsoon season, you should expect your shoes to get a little wet. For this reason, carry a pair of floaters or sandals that you can wear on the campsite and roam around freely.
Dry Bags for Your Electronics and Backpack Covers
For monsoon treks, dry bags and backpack covers are a must. These will keep your electronics, like phones, cameras, power banks, and other electronics safe and dry. Dry bags and backpack covers are made of waterproof material, so even in heavy downpours, your electronics will be protected. Along with these, you also should carry a bunch of plastic bags to put your wet clothes in during treks.
Spare Clothes, Socks and Undergarments
Always carry a few spare clothes, socks, and undergarments during a monsoon trek. Carry at least 5-6 pairs of socks and undergarments, so you do not have to worry even if they get soaked.
Trekking Poles
A trekking pole can help you a lot during a monsoon trek. Trekking poles provide proper grip and stability while walking muddy, slippery paths, and will ensure you do not strain your legs or fall while ascending or descending a trail.
Other Trek Essentials to Carry
Apart from the essential hiking gear mentioned above, you should carry a good water bottle, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, energy snacks for the journey, and necessary toiletries. These are little things that can make your hiking adventure easier and wholesome.
Tips to Remember While Trekking During the Monsoon Season
- Before planning your trek, check the weather forecast of your trekking sites. This will give you a fair idea of the trek essentials you must carry and make your preparation easier.
- Monsoon treks can be difficult due to the unexpected weather and muddy, water-prone hiking trails. Hence, prepare yourself mentally and physically to overcome any challenge that comes your way.
- Make sure to stay hydrated while trekking. Carry at least 2 water bottles and some energy bars, to keep your energy levels high while walking. This will ensure you do not faint, and you will also maintain a good trekking pace.
- You should carry bugs and mosquito repellent with you. On treks, you will encounter a lot of bugs that can cause you irritation. So, be prepared and carry bug sprays to fully enjoy your hiking expedition.
Conclusion
Monsoon treks are extremely enjoyable. The trails are full of lush greenery and vibrant landscapes. You can ensure a comfortable, safe, and pleasant trekking journey by preparing in advance. Carry all the monsoon trek essentials and follow the tips mentioned above, and you are good to go! Happy trekking!
If you are looking to invest in premium quality trekking and hiking clothing, explore Reccy’s multi-functional clothing collection perfect for all outdoor adventures. Whether you need hiking pants, light quick-drying t-shirts and shorts or base layers, you will find all hiking essentials for this monsoon season.