Backpacker Travel Insurance

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Backpacking through Europe survival kit seems to be a popular search these days with lots of people looking out for them on the web. I’ve noticed a lot of traffic here from people looking for backpacking survival kits and trying to find out what should be in them. Some of the items listed in the article are more suited for travelers visiting more remote parts or out in the wilderness. Those of you visiting the likes of France, Germany the UK etc might not need everything that’s listed.

Perhaps the most important thing is a first aid kit. At least a very basic first aid kit and supplies should be taken with you which should contain:

Ibuprofen
tweezers
alcohol wipes
antiseptic hand cleaner
medical adhesive tape
sterile gauze (four inch squares are best)
elastic bandages
several sizes of adhesive bandages
insect bite swabs
triple-antibiotic ointment
hydrogen peroxide
bandage scissors
triangular bandages
instant cold packs

These are the basics required for an emergency first aid kit.

A compass is also required or even better a GPS system especially for those of you planning to do any hiking. If you by a GPS system it’s best to stick to one of the named brands such as Garmin as you’ll get excellent product support. Another thing I can’t emphasize enough is making sure you know how to use it before you go! You don’t want to be sitting out in the wilderness somewhere trying to work out where you are or where you’re going! They come with detailed instructions so take the time before you leave to go through it and familiarize yourself with the technology. It’ll pay dividends in the end. I can recommend the Garmin Oregon 400t which is a bit pricey but will cover all your needs.

Insect repellent is well worth the investment especially if you’re visiting somewhere like the Highlands of Scotland. The insects there are awful in the summer and insect repellent is a must! I’ve come across a few people on my travels that swear by homemade insect repellent or use eucalyptus based insect repellent. I myself have never bothered with this and stuck with named brand like Deet Insect Repellent! You can get all natural or even sunscreen insect repellent which brings me on to my next point! Sunscreen! Never leave home without it. You can get the lightweight sprays now which are easy to carry around and do the job perfectly. Just ensure it’s of a have enough SPF for your skin. You know what they say, everybody’s free to wear sunscreen! On a similar train of thought, lip balm is useful to protect your lips from the sun. Once again just insure the lip balm SPF is high enough to provide proper protection.

Make sure you take trash bags and Ziploc for food and other supplies. Ziploc storage bags are fantastic for backpacking there’s just so many uses for them. Trash bags are quite self explanatory! Keep the countryside tidy or wherever you are! Speaking of countryside, if you’re out in the wilderness backpacking there might be a chance you have to start a fire to keep yourself warm. Waterproof matches come in extremely handy for this. Why waterproof? Well, who wants to take the chance of bad weather. Backpackers should be prepared for all types of weather! Emergency tinder should also be packed as this will light even when wet. Don’t take any chances!

A flashlight is also an essential requirement of a backpacker survival kit. No matter if you’re backpacking through Europe or not you should always have a flashlight with you! I’ve always stuck with Surefire flashlights which have never let me down. Just make sure you have spare batteries in your backpack with you. Chem-lights are also extremely useful and can be re-used night after night.

A good quality survival knife is also an important part of your backpacking survival kit. I think you’ll find you use it far more than you’d expect. In fact some would claim it is the most important survival tool that you can carry. Survival knives come in all shapes and sizes but don’t think you need to go straight out and buy yourself a Rambo survival knife. It looks cool I’ll admit but you’ll regret it when it’s weighing down your backpack out in the wilderness! I’ve always found Gerber survival knifes to be excellent. Some of them have been developed by military instructor Frank Heyl and have been tested under military conditions. You could potentially use your survival knife to aid in the construction of a shelter, cut firewood or spear dinner! Most of them come with a safety strap or belt which are useful for carrying it around.

Now if you’re really out in the wilderness and you have to catch your own dinner then please make sure you take a small fishing kit with you. Fishing gear can be fairly expensive and you’re looking to take the basics with you. It’s not like we’re going largemouth bass fishing or peacock bass fishing! Remember at all times respect the fishing regulations. If there’s signs up telling you not to fish then don’t do it. I’m not sure if your backpacker travel insurance covers you for breaking fishing regulations and having to bail yourself out of the local jail!

I’d also recommend taking emergency blankets with you as you never know what kind of weather you’ll get. As I said before, backpackers should be prepared for all types of weather and emergency blankets come in handy. Emergency survival blankets again come in all different types and brands. I’d recommend Coleman Emergency Blanket as they’re lightweight and get the job down. Keep the weight in your mind at all times when you’re packing your backpack as you’re the one who has to carry it around! Make sure you pack a whistle with you for safety as well as a rescue signal mirror.

A saw is also useful for cutting wood and I have heard things about the BCB Commando Saw which will cut through wood, plastic, bone, rubber and soft metal.

For food take some energy bars, water packets and water purification tablets. These are of course essential items for your backpacking survival kit!

In conclusion this is meant as a basic guide to what you need for your backpacking through Europe survival guide. There are lots of resources online for what you need where I feel I have covered a broad range of possible trips ensure you look around to get your specific needs before you travel! Remember don’t take any risks and ensure you’re well prepared.

There are the usual backpacking survival kit ideas that have stood the test of time. Almost everyone agrees that some way to start a fire, some medical supplies and some kind of blade are necessary. Other items, ranging from saws to signal whistles can be very useful, but their necessity in a basic kit are argued.

The following are the usual things that survival kits may have. After that you’ll find a few new ideas. The usual survival kit items: Fire starter (like a magnesium stick), waterproof matches, signal mirror, sewing kit, foil blanket, water purification tablets, fishing line and hooks, compass, fire tinder, plastic bags, duct tape, knife, bandana, nylon cord, paper, pencil or pen, dental floss, and a condom (the latter for carrying water in a wilderness emergency).

First aid items usually include bandages, aspirin or other pain killers, gauze pads, tweezers, and antibiotic ointment. More extensive first aid kits might also have splints, medical tape, sun block, safety pins, and a snake bite kit. Of course, any crucial medications you need are a good addition as well.

New Survival Kit Ideas

Here are some ideas you may not have heard of. First, why not have two survival kits? Make one for all-around use on easy hikes and when using a vehicle (ATV) or bicycle. These are the times when it is easier to carry a little extra weight. Of course, the problem is that we tend to leave a kit behind – or even leave a whole backpack behind – when we want to avoid the weight, like when you see a summit you want to climb up to. That is where the second kit comes in.

The second survival kit can be kept inside the first, so there is no unnecessary repetition of items. The point of this one is to have the most crucial items in the smallest lightest package. It can include bandages, a razor blade or small knife, aspirin, water purification, duct tape, pencil stub and paper. It should comfortably fit in the pocket of your pants or jacket. An altoids container can hold all of this, and has a mirrored surface inside as well, for signaling rescuers in the case of getting lost.

Another good idea for a survival kit is a couple small photos of those who are important to you. Survivors of wilderness disasters often report that thinking of their loved ones kept them alive. A photo or two to look at makes this even more of an inspiration.

Notes are a good survival kit idea too. First aid kits have tiny guides to help you in medical situations, but you might also want a reminder of survival techniques. My own notes have the most common edible and useful wild plants listed, so I’ll remember what to look for and why. You can fit a lot of information on one piece of paper.

Then there is your “mental survival kit,” meaning the knowledge and practiced attitudes of your mind. Practice thinking of how to survive, for example, rather than about how bad a situation is. Read and recall a few good true survival stories, too. You’ll feel more confident in your abilities and chances, and telling such stories to others in your group might lift everyone’s spirits.

Apply these new survival kit ideas – they’re cheap wilderness emergency insurance for your next backpacking trip.

By: Steve Gillman

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Copyright Steve Gillman. Visit the Wilderness Survival Guide and get the free ebook version of Ultralight Backpacking Secrets, as well as gear recommendations, and true adventure stories, at: www.The-Ultralight-Site.com/wilderness-survival-guide.html

There’s many respectable retailers online that will provide you with a suitable backpack for your travels. However, I can offer you this exclusive online offer of 50% off your purchase. The Eagle Creek Day Travelers Travel Bag is well worth a look! You’ll also get free shipping on any orders over $100.

Preparations for a backpacking trip

Vaccinations

Make sure you have seen a travel doctor at least 3-6months before your trip as with a lot of vaccinations you need them over three courses with a month’s gap in-between.
Remember to take your vaccination book with you traveling as it may be needed as there are different types of vaccines for different diseases so if the worst was to happen the doctors will know what you have had.
Backpack
You will need a good quality backpack for your trip. About 60 litres should be sufficient as you do not want your pack to be too large as you do have to have this with you constantly and if it is too big you will have problems when getting on buses and trains etc.
Along with your backpack you will also need to take a day pack. This is a very useful piece of equipment. If you have any valuables you can keep them in your daypack whilst on bus/train journeys and know that they are safer with you than hidden away with your backpack.
They are also very handy when out for the day to put any purchases in and for general items you always like to have to hand.

Clothing

T-Shirts – 2/3 will be enough. You will get bored of wearing these very quickly if you’re on a long trip but these will wear out but you can always find cheap replacements wherever you are in the world.
Shorts – Shorts are essential if you’re going to warmer climates. Again only around 2 pairs will be fine as you do not want to overload your backpack. Boy’s the best thing for you is just to have swimming shorts then you’re always ready to take a dip wherever you are.
Trousers – 1 or 2 pairs of lightweight trousers is recommended. They are good for the evenings to protect yourself from mosquitoes and if it does get a little chilly outside. Jeans are a good idea if you’re going to go to colder climates as they keep you warm and are hard wearing.
Swim wear – A couple of pairs of swimming shorts for the boys will be fine and a couple of bikinis for the girls – but remember where you are girls. Touristy areas of South East Asia are fine for bikinis but only on the beach; cover up when going into town.
Waterproof jacket – A lightweight waterproof jacket is always recommended. When you get caught in a monsoon you will soon realise why.
Sandals/Flip Flops/Thongs – I find that this is all I wear when I’m away as it’s usually so hot. Take a couple pairs incase of breakages or if they get stolen which they tend to do in SE Asia.
Trainers – Take a good pair of trainers, if you’ve got a day of walking round a city or temples a nice pair of comfy trainers will be of great help.
Hiking boots – If you are going to go hiking then taking your own pair maybe beneficial. A good pair which will last in the tropical forests and monsoons will be ideal.
Towels – I also think to take 2 towels. One for the Beach and one for showers. You can never rely on your hostel/guesthouse to supply a towel so it’s best to have your own. Try to get lightweight ones that should dry quickly. You don’t want a wet towel in your backpack with all your other clothes.

Essentials

First aid Kit – A good well stocked first aid kit is essential for any trip. You never know when you may need this. Also some needles and syringes would be good to have as you know that in case you need an injection that the needles will be clean.
Deet/Mosquito Spray – Keep them mozzies away with some repellent.
Mosquito net – You may not use it very often but trust me when you do need it you will be happy as Larry that you brought one.
Toiletries – Shampoo, deodorant etc, you can by these when you are travelling but it’s good to bring some with you to start.

Recommended

Passport sized photos – when crossing borders and obtaining visas you usually always need at least 2 passport photos. Take a good supply with you as it will save you searching around to try and find somewhere last minute.
Camera – Obviously a camera is great to take along so you can keep a memory of your trip forever. Also put them on your fave social website to show off and make your friends and family jealous.
Money belt – For security its best to wear a money belt to keep your money, bank cards and passport safe and away from sneaky hands.
Alarm Clock – You will need one of these to help you get up for your bus or train as well as if you need to go on a tour and meet at a certain time.
MP3 Player – Always good on long journeys. Good to get a lot of music on it before you go as you will get bored of your music quite quickly.
Playing Cards – Good at all times, for passing time of long journeys or rainy days. Also good for drinking games with your new found friends.
Torch – Depending where you go electricity might be a commodity that is in short supply. Also good for finding your way back to you hostel or to the toilet in the dead of night.
Reading books – Like with the MP3 player a book is a good way to pass time on long journeys and relaxing down the beach. Once you’re finished with it you can swap it with other backpackers you meet.

By: TravelMatty

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Backpacker who loves to travel. Wikidtravel – Independent travel site for backpackers

One of the most common questions I get asked through this blog is what should a backpacker pack for traveling? Here’s an interesting article I found on the subject.

Packing for your European backpacking adventure is one of the most crucial keys to a successful and enjoyable trip. Since you will be carrying everything you pack on your back for the majority of your trip, you want to concentrate on making your belongings as light and compact as possible, only taking the very bare minimum of clothing and supplies.

The most important supply for your backpacking trip though Europe is your backpack. Click here for help choosing the right backpack. The clothing you select for your trip can strongly influence the weight of your pack so take care to only take basic items and look for pieces that can double. Consider the normal temperature of each area you plan to visit at the time of year you will be traveling and pack your clothing accordingly. If your trip will last through more than one season, you will need extra layers for cooler months.

Begin with two pairs of pants. Look for pants with plenty of pockets. Pockets come in handy for easily accessible storage on the road. Pants that zip off into shorts are great for decreasing weight, otherwise you will also want a pair of shorts. Pack two or three t-shirts and a couple long sleeve shirts or sweatshirts. You will probably buy more shirts on your trip, so don’t worry about not packing enough. You may also consider packing popular logo t-shirts and trading them along the way with other backpackers. Remember to pack 3 or 4 pairs of underwear, a swimsuit, and something to sleep in.

Take along a comfortable pair of hiking shoes. These will be your primary footwear on your trip, so remember a couple pairs of socks as well. You will also want a light pair of sandals or flip-flops for hostel showers and a pair of open-toed shoes for going out. Make use of the space wasted by any shoes you pack by filling the insides with small items.

Hostels provide bathrooms with showers, as well as laundry facilities. Most hostels do not offer towels, though, so bring along a small towel designed for carrying, like the Coleman pack towel. You will also want a small set of toiletry items, like soap, toothpaste, shampoo, toothpaste, and deodorant. A washcloth or sponge may be an item to remember as well. Most hostels do have vending machines for laundry detergent and it may be easier to buy these supplies rather than carry them.

Remember to make copies of all your important documents, like passports and any important medical information, and store the copies in separate places. Secure all credit and debit cards, traveler’s checks, and other valuable items, and don’t forget to pack an adequate supply of any needed medications. A few other items you will want to be sure to remember are a camera, a good, detailed guide book, and plenty of sunscreen.

Most backpackers who have traveled through Europe come back and realize they packed too much. The lighter your pack is, the more fun you will have on your trip, so only pack the things that you know you will need. If you realize later you forgot a necessity, you can always pick it up on the road.

For more tips and information about Camping Lanterns, check out http: http://www.summitcampinggear.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nicole_Munoz

I felt that the author covered the basics of what to bring when backpacking.