What to take on a multi-day trek
In a few days’ time we are starting a multi-day trek on the historical Cami dels Bons Homes Trail (GR107) from Foix (France) over the Pyrenees to Berga (Catalunya). It is time to decide what to pack for this adventure.
When packing for a multi-day trek you have to consider, the season, the location of the trail, and the weather. While researching for the Trekking the Robert Louis Stevenson Trail guidebook we made a basic kit list that we can adjust to different trails if necessary. Staying in hotels and gites lightens the backpack however there are still many things you need in the mountains.
Consider the location
It might be a good idea to write your own kit list and pack your bag a few weeks before the trek. After all you don’t want to find out the night before the start of the multi-day hike that your kit doesn't fit into your bag. It is also worth to try and pack your items to the bag in different orders to see which is the best way to fit everything in. Packing light is very important, after all you have to carry everything. You definitely need less during the summer months however the weather in the mountains can change quickly. Storms can develop even on warm sunny days and the temperatures can drop in the evenings. Here is a basic kit list that we use if we are staying at gites/hotels/hostels during a multi- day hike.
Basic kit list for a multi-day trek
Backpack
Comfortable 30l backpack should be enough for a couple of weeks trek if you are staying in hotels/hostels, gites, and don’t plan to carry a tent.
Sleeping bag or liner
Sometimes bed linen is not provided so it is best to be prepared. If you don’t want to carry a sleeping bag, take a light weight sleeping bag liner.
Hydration bladder
It is easier to carry the right amount of water for the day in a hydration bladder. It is probably good to take a hydration bladder with a 2L capacity.
Travel towel
It is important to choose a light weight and most importantly a quick dry travel towel. They are not expensive and they can come in handy even if you are treated with fluffy clean towels at your accommodation each night. If you carry a travel towel you will never have to fight a temptation of a quick dip in a fresh stream on your trek.
Waterproof jacket and bag cover or rain poncho
It is very important to keep spare clothes and all the gear dry during the trek. Showers or thunderstorms can quickly develop in the mountains even in the summer. Waterproof jacket and a rain cover for the back pack is fine. However if you have a pocket for a hydration bladder outside of the main compartment the water can find its way in, where the bag’s rain cover ends near the shoulder’s strap. For our upcoming trek in the Pyrenees I am taking a rain poncho that covers me and the my bag.
Fleece/warm top
In the mountains the temperature drops as you climb higher and you might need a fleece on the mountain top even on hot summer days. But take a fleece on your multi day hike, even if you are not climbing the mountains in the Pyrenees, as the evenings can be a lot cooler in the countryside.
We are also taking the following
Long sleeve technical hiking top that can be used in the evening or as a layer on cooler days.
2 technical t shirts for hiking
1 t-shirt for the evening/travelling
hiking sandals/flip flops
To lighten your backpack, wear your hiking clothes and your hiking boots while travelling to and from the trail. Hiking boots are simply too bulky to pack away. However you might see people walking around at airports and train stations with hiking boots tied onto their backpack. Personally I wear my hiking boots for travelling and I take my hiking sandals for the evenings. Sandals are also more comfortable than flip flops for sightseeing.
Hiking trousers/leggings/shorts
Leggings take little space in you backpack and could be used as spare clothes or comfy evening wear. You can opt for a full or ¾ length. If you don’t like to wear leggings lightweight, quick dry shorts (for example running shorts) are also good for hiking or for something to wear in the evenings.
The best way to take you hiking trousers is to wear them while travelling to and from the trail as otherwise they might take up too much room in your bag. You can also take a convertible hiking trousers.
You don’t need more then 2-3 pairs of socks or underwear but don’t leave your hat/cap and sunglasses at home.
Toiletries
Make sure that you only take what are absolutely necessary and opt for travel size products. The only exceptions should be the sun cream. Make sure you take enough for the trek.
Miscellaneous Probably you can capture the best moments of the trek with your phone. Jacint carries a camera as well as a few other photo equipment as he is taking photos for a guidebook. We also take a torch and charger for everything that needs charging.
An ideal first multi-day trek
If you want to try a multi day hike in Europe but not ready for the Pyrenees or the Alps, why not choose the Robert Louis Stevenson Trail (GR70) in France. Check out how we can help you to plan your trip. We can even help you to put together a kit list or help you to find a luggage transfer company.
