Essential outdoor gear to enjoy your holiday

As we’re heading into the summer season local and international adventurers are looking at the options of outdoor camping, experiencing the splendour and unspoilt beauty of Zimbabwe.

There are stunning landscapes to explore from Victoria Falls, Kariba, and Mana Pools in the north to the majestic rocky outcrops and the hills of Matopos in the south. Options include Hwange in the west of Zimbabwe to the breathtaking scenery of Nyanga and Bvumba in the east. And in the centre of the country is Antelope Park in Gweru and, of course, Great Zimbabwe which is unique and should be on every traveller’s list.

There are so many exciting and special places to visit and lots to see and enjoy. Camping is a great option to experience the wonders of the country without being stuck in a hotel or lodge. It also gives you the freedom to explore and stay as long as you like, or move on when you’re ready. But whether it’s a one-day hike through the wilderness, a weekend adventure, or a longer stay, there is some essential outdoor gear you need to take with you.

Especially if you’re travelling to more remote areas, a good old-fashioned map is essential as the phone or internet signal can be unreliable and you really don’t want to get lost in the wilderness, however romantic it might seem! Other techie stuff you might want to take with you would include a compass and some kind of GPS devise. Sun protection is pretty important so a wide brimmed hat is recommended as well as sunglasses and sunscreen cream. It’s easy to get sunburnt without even noticing and the results can be painful. Sun protective clothes, like long sleeved shirts and long trousers, are also a good idea. For a longer stay, not just a day trip, include something warm for the evenings. Even if the days are hot the nights can sometimes get quite cold. Something waterproof, like a jacket or rain coat, can keep you more comfortable in an unexpected downpour. If you can afford the extra weight a small tarpaulin can provide good protection against the vagaries of the weather.

While on the topic of clothing – sturdy boots or shoes will keep your feet comfortable and safe. A nasty thorn or an insect or snake bite can ruin your trip. Sandals or open shoes are not recommended even if they feel a bit cooler.
A small First Aid kit is a great addition to your packing – not necessarily too big or heavy – just the essentials like plasters, bandages, antiseptic cream and insect repellent. If you’re planning on a longer trip you might consider a more comprehensive kit including cleaning wipes, scissors, clips and pins and an aluminium blanket for emergencies.

Always take more water than you think you’ll need. It’s easy to get dehydrated which will make you feel weak and disorientated. Not a great feeling when you’re in a remote area!

For longer stays you might consider adding rehydration salts and water purification tablets to your First Aid kit. Water from a river or a dam might look clean but can still carry bacteria and micro-organisms that
can cause upset stomachs or worse. Extra food is also a good idea to boost your energy – snack bars, chocolates and trail mix can boost your energy as well as boosting your mood. A small square of chocolate can be really comforting when you’re feeling the need for a bit of a lift.

A trusty knife, like a Swiss Army knife, can be used for so many different needs, from fixing small
problems like loose screws on your sunglasses, or removing thorns, to chopping, cutting, or opening tins
or bottles. It even has a cork screw so you can open your bottle of wine! It’s a whole tool kit in a small
lightweight form. If you’re away from civilisation a screw driver or a pair of pliers could be essential for minor repairs.

Fire starting equipment is also a good idea to include in your packing. Matches, a lighter or fire starting briquettes can really help you out for an overnight stay, or even for a warm meal on a day trip. A small fire is great for a feeling of security, warmth and comfort at night as well as for cooking and heating food and water.

For longer stays a small gas burner is more useful than collecting tinder and firewood and so much more convenient. It can be a bit heavy to carry for a day trip or a weekend stay but for longer trips it’s invaluable. It’s great to wake up and make your morning coffee and breakfast without the fuss of making a fire.

So whether it’s just a day trip or a few days of adventure make sure you’re well stocked and well packed.

From: Destination ZW 12