How To Prepare For A Month In The Mountains
Travel isn’t just about sitting on beaches in foreign countries while wait staff brings you drinks. It’s also about exploring the limits of who you are and what you can do.
That’s why more people are choosing to use their time off work for adventure instead of leisure. Feeling like you’re up against the elements offers the biggest thrills and payoff.
But how do you prepare for a month in the mountains? That’s the topic we broach in this post. We look at some of the things you’ll need to take with you and how to prepare if you intend to remain self-sufficient for several weeks.
Research The Area
First, you’ll want to research the area you will explore and find out more about it. Learn the climate, temperature fluctuations, topology, and terrain. Take note of the altitude and likely weather conditions as these will determine the type of gear you take with you. Also, investigate the local wildlife and plants and be on the lookout for hazards. Check for things like bears, poisonous berries, and wild cats.
Upgrade Your Physical Fitness
The next step is to upgrade your physical fitness. You need to be able to cope with the challenges of living in the mountains for a month and possibly hiking around. Climbing to elevation is physically challenging, especially with a fifty-pound backpack on your back.
Go to the gym and practise smaller climbs if available in your local area in the weeks and months running up to your trip. Ensure you achieve a minimum fitness level so you don’t feel like you are playing catch-up when you finally decide to go on your adventure.
Check Your Gear
Next, you’ll need to bring suitable gear for mountain conditions. This includes proper hiking boots that repel water, multiple layers of clothing, and a tent you can pitch in case of a storm or blizzard on open terrain. You should also consider taking some sort of face protection to prevent sun and windburn, such as UV goggles, a balaclava, and sunscreen.
Pack Your Navigation Tools
You will also need to pack various navigation tools to ensure you know where you are at any given moment. Triangulating yourself relative to the closest roads and facilities is essential in case of an emergency.
You can use GPS, compass, and map. If you are spending a long time in the wilderness and don’t want to carry solar panels and battery packs with you, then using old-fashioned methods can be just as effective.
Don’t take a road atlas with you. It won’t help in the wilderness.
Bring A First Aid Kit
Another essential item is your first aid kit. While you should always have a satellite phone with you, owning a first aid kit can be helpful for treating minor issues or patching yourself up while you wait for help to arrive. You should also bring any regular medications you need with you to take on your trip.
Take A Water Filter
Lastly, don’t forget to bring a water filter with you. You won’t be able to bring enough fresh water from ground level to last you a month.
