- First aid kit: A small kit with bandages, painkillers and important medication.
- Rescue blanket: A lightweight sheet that helps to optimise body temperature retention. It keeps you warm if you get into an emergency situation. For longer tours, I also take a more robust bivouac sack.
- Mobile phone: I fully charge the battery before setting off and always pack a charging cable and a power bank - especially recommended for longer tours.
- The tour saved offline - and a spare map: I usually plan my tours a few days in advance and then save them offline - that way I always have them to hand, even in areas without mobile phone reception. This saves battery power and I can still use the GPS. To be on the safe side, I always have a paper map with me. Of course, you should be able to read maps, otherwise even the best map is useless. A few basic orientation techniques are simply a must.
- Headlamp: A headlamp is not only practical for longer distances in the dark, but also for drawing attention to yourself when visibility is poor.
- Functional clothing: Weatherproof, breathable clothing that suits the expected conditions is a must for me - and a change of outfit always comes along in case the weather turns. Good footwear is often underestimated: In warm weather, I opt for breathable, well-ventilated boots, and in cold and rainy conditions, waterproof boots.
- Snacks: Energy bars, dried fruit or nuts are easy to carry and perfect for travelling. And of course I always have enough water with me - depending on the route and the weather.
- Sun cream and sunglasses: Many people underestimate the sun, especially in the mountains. That's why I always have both with me - and remember to reapply sun cream regularly.
- Rubbish bag: "Leave no trace" is one of the most important basic rules of nature conservation - so I always take my own rubbish bag with me.
- Special equipment: On some routes, especially in the high mountains or in extreme weather, you need special equipment. I therefore always find out about the route beforehand so that I know what I absolutely need to take with me. If ice axes, crampons, climbing gear or camping equipment are needed, I test everything in advance. Has your equipment not been used for a while or is it borrowed? Then be sure to try it out beforehand - it can quickly become dangerous if used incorrectly. And if in doubt, it's better to do a course. The mountains will be waiting for you.
Every adventure is unique and always different - it all depends on the route, the season and the people you are travelling with. But hopefully Gerhard's equipment list will be a good guide (or a little reminder) for your next outdoor tour.
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* SAAC has been ensuring greater safety in the Alps for 25 years. Together with mountain guides and experts, it informs mountain sports enthusiasts about alpine risks, imparts helpful knowledge and promotes personal responsibility. In this way, SAAC helps to make the mountains safer for everyone.
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