PACK BY REGION
🌴 Tropical Rainforest (Amazon, Congo, SE Asia)
- Lightweight, long-sleeve shirts & pants → protect from insects + sun, quick-dry.
- Permethrin-treated clothing → added insect protection.
- Mosquito net (ultra-fine mesh) → malaria/dengue prevention while sleeping.
- Waterproof rain gear (poncho + pack cover) → sudden heavy storms.
- Quick-dry trail shoes / sandals → avoid trench foot in constant wet.
- Machete / folding saw → clearing paths & making camp.
- Electrolyte packets → prevent dehydration in humid heat.
- Dry bags → protect electronics & clothes from moisture.
- Compact first-aid kit
→ snakebite bandage, antifungal cream (skin infections common).
🍂 Temperate Forest (Europe, North America, Japan)
- Layered clothing system → base (moisture-wicking), mid (insulation), outer (waterproof).
- Sturdy waterproof boots → muddy, root-filled trails.
- Bug spray / tick repellent → Lyme disease & mosquitoes.
- Tarp or hammock with rain fly → light shelter in forested zones.
- Headlamp with red light → avoids startling wildlife.
- Bear canister / food bag + rope
→ food safety in bear areas.
🌲 Boreal Forest / Taiga (Canada, Siberia, Alaska)
- Thermal base layers → very long winters, freezing nights.
- Heavy-duty gloves & hat → frostbite protection.
- Waterproof boots + gaiters → deep snow or swampy thaw zones.
- Axe / saw → for firewood in harsh climates.
- Portable stove → wet wood often impossible to burn.
- Emergency satellite beacon
→ extremely remote, no cell coverage.
☀️ Desert (Sahara, Gobi, Atacama)
- Wide-brim hat, scarf (or shemagh) → sun & sandstorm protection.
- Light, loose clothing covering skin → sunburn + dehydration prevention.
- Hydration bladder + collapsible bottles → carry 4–6L/day minimum.
- Electrolyte tablets / ORS packs → prevent heatstroke.
- Light tarp → instant shade shelter.
- UV sunglasses → protect against desert glare.
- High-SPF sunscreen + lip balm → cracked lips/nose protection.
- Sand gaiters / closed shoes → stop sand from entering footwear.