Equipment tips

THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT IS HALF THE PLANNING

The rucksack is as much a part of hiking as the lid on the pot. It is a constant companion and reassurance in one. Ideally, it contains all the items that can help the hiker in planned and unplanned situations. That's why you can find out here how to pack your rucksack correctly and what else you should definitely have with you.

FIND FRESH DRINKING WATER

Firstly, you should start with enough water. Secondly, you can fill up your drinking water bottle at the streams. As you know, you will usually find very clean spring water when hiking in the mountains. If the water is cloudy, simply filter it! To do this, pour sand, pebbles and crushed charcoal into a sock lined with handkerchiefs. The water that runs through will then be much clearer. But be careful, this method does not necessarily remove all bacteria and germs. It is also important that you only use water from flowing water - the faster the stream rushes, the cleaner the water is. Water from stagnant water should be avoided at all costs, as this is where all the bacteria and germs like to collect!

HOW DO I PACK MY RUCKSACK?

The lighter, the better. The weight of the packed rucksack should not exceed 25 per cent of your body weight. If you are travelling on flat terrain, the centre of gravity should be at your shoulders. In steep areas, it should be slightly lower.

LIGHT OBJECTS

Lightweight items, such as your sleeping bag or a jacket, can be stored in the bottom compartment.
MEDIUM-HEAVY OBJECTS

Medium-weight items, such as a change of clothes, should be packed in the centre section of the rucksack on the outside.
HEAVY OBJECTS

Heavy items, such as your camera or tent, belong in the centre section directly on your back.
MINORITY

You can put small items in the lid compartment or in side pockets.
WEIGHT SHIFT

You can easily determine whether you have packed your rucksack correctly: If the weight does not push or pull you forwards or backwards or hinder you in any other way, it is packed correctly.

"Practical pack sacks are available on the market that hold the individual parts of a category together in the rucksack. This means that nothing can shift around and small items stay in place."

Alix von Melle | LOWA PRO Team

THE MUST-HAVES FOR A CLASSIC HIKING TOUR

What you should definitely have in your rucksack:

BOTTLE

Water bottle (for refilling).
CLOTHING

Waterproof, breathable jacket and lightweight jumper.
SUN PROTECTION

Sun cream, sunglasses, buff band or thin hat, light gloves.
CARE

Catering if there is no hut.
EMERGENCY SET

Small emergency kit, mobile phone, torch, torch, knife, money and ID.
MULTI-DAY TOUR

Hut sleeping bag, thin outdoor towel, change of clothes, wash bag with shampoo (small container!), toothpaste and toothbrush.

"Take a hiking map with you. Because with a map, you have a better chance of finding your own way and getting back on the right track, even if you get lost."

Steffi, a daily travel mate | LOWA Ambassadors

OPTIMALLY PREPARED FOR THE BREAK

In addition to a bottle of water, some provisions are one of the most important things in your rucksack. It will help you when your strength starts to wane and your steps get shorter. Because then it's time for a break. Have a drink, stretch your legs and shake out your arms. If that doesn't help or your stomach is rumbling, you should energise your body. Bananas, dried fruit or nuts are ideal. A biscuit or a piece of glucose can also help you to get fit again.

"Avoid heavy food and stick to light, high-energy snacks."

Steffi, a daily travel mate | LOWA Ambassadors

SECRET TIP: A BOTTLE OF TEA TREE OIL

It helps against almost everything, fits in every rucksack and is the ideal companion for your tour. One drop soothes minor injuries, athlete's foot and insect bites. The aroma overpowers odours so that it is also suitable for washing on long tours. Be careful not to rub it into your eyes, otherwise it will sting! If you fall ill while travelling, you should dilute a drop of tea tree oil with water and drink it. Gargling also helps - for example with gum inflammation or a sore throat.