Packing

What you need to know and how to make a better experience while in the outdoors.

Packing for Palestine generally follows the same guidelines as packing for a trek anywhere else – ensure you have the equipment needed to keep you safe and comfortable in the wilderness, know how to use it, and don’t carry more weight than needed.

If you’re buying outdoor equipment for the first time, keep in mind that two of the most important areas in which it is worthwhile to shop carefully and to invest more money if necessary are your backpack (particularly if buying a large pack for multi-day hiking) and your footwear. Both should be tried on and fitted to you in a store – preferably one staffed by knowledgeable outdoor professionals – as fit is both very personal and very important in terms of comfort and function. Also, remember that less is more – bringing fewer or lighter items means you’ll be carrying less weight, making the hike more enjoyable and less tiring.

Footwear will serve you best when broken in and when your feet are used to what you’re wearing. The best way to avoid blisters and other trip-disrupting foot problems is to wear your boots or shoes for some time before starting a long hike; this allows you to become accustomed to them and to address any issues before heading onto the trail.

Out of respect for the environment and “Leave No Trace” principles, using a camping stove is preferable to building campfires. Taking wood for campfires deprives the ecosystems of valuable organic matter, scars the landscape with fire rings, and runs the risk of spreading a wildfire.

When going hiking in wilderness areas where you’re navigating for yourself and help may not be readily at hand, consider the “Ten Essentials” and how they apply to the situations you’ll be in.

You can also download a PDF of the full packing list.

Navigation
  • Compass.
  • GPS device and extra batteries.
  • Guidebook or topographical maps.
Sun Protection
  • Hat or “Hatta” (The scarf worn in many configurations by locals).
  • Sunscreen.
  • Sunglasses.
Insulation
  • Extra shirt or jacket.
  • Rain layer (If hiking in the winter).
  • Insulated jacket (If hiking in the winter).
Illumination
  • Headlamp and extra batteries.
First Aid Suppies
  • Bandages and plasters.
  • Moleskin or other blister treatment.
  • Antiseptic wipes to clean wounds.
  • Pain reliever/fever reducer, such as acetaminophen/paracetamol or ibuprofen.
  • Antihistamine, such as Benadryl (Diphenhydramine).
  • EpiPen or other epinephrine auto-injector in case of bee-sting allergy.
  • Tweezers.
  • Sanitary gloves.
Fire
  • Lighter, waterproof matches, and/or other fire-starters.
Repairs & Tools
  • Pocket knife or multitool.
  • Strips of duct tape.
  • Needles and strong thread.
  • Repair kits for any items in your pack (e.g. inflatable mats, stoves).
Nutrition
  • Snacks high in energy and protein, including nuts and fruit, granola bars, or energy bars.
Hydration
  • Minimum 3-5 liters is recommended for a day hike; it’s always better to have more than less.
  • Water purification (filter, Steripen, tablets) to treat natural water sources.
Emergency Shelter
  • Light tarp and ropes to pitch it.
Sleeping System
  • Lightweight backpacking tent.
  • Sleeping bag or quilt.
  • Sleeping pad (important for insulation as well as comfort).
Clothing
  • Changes of clothes, especially socks.
  • Clothing for all weather conditions: hot, cold, sunny, rainy, snowy and windy.
  • Flip-flops or other evening/camp footwear.
Sanitation
  • Travel towel.
  • Soap and/or hand sanitizer.
  • Personal toiletries.
  • Toilet paper and a trowel to dig catholes.
  • Extra plastic bags to pack out garbage.
Cooking
  • Multi-fuel camp stove.
  • Cookware (pots, cups, and utensils).
Other Helpful Items
  • Insect repellent.
  • Chargers and extra batteries for electronics.
  • Trekking poles.