Packing List for a Desert Adventure
Photo from Jordan
Deserts can be an amazing travel destination: from camel riding in Jordan or Morocco to sand-boarding in Peru or star gazing in the Atacama desert, there is something adventurous, but also very romantic about deserts. However, it is also important to pack the right gear in your travel capsule wardrobe because of the extreme climate. Below are some essentials that should come with you on all desert adventures:
Sun protection:
The desert sun is harsh so a brimmed hat, sunglasses and ample supply of sunscreen are recommended. A scarf can sometimes serve as a shield from the sun. Wrapping it over your head and neck can keep you covered.
Clothing:
Pack clothing for both warm and cold conditions,and include a rainproof jacket and/umbrella. Wear white/reflective, long-sleeved and long-legged clothing, to protect you from the intense sun during the day. For desert adventures like camel riding, it's best to wear cargo pants as camel fur is pretty rough so you don't get rash or blisters.
Shoes:
Comfortable walking or biking boots are ideal. They should be heavy enough to protect your feet from the hot ground surface, and also from sharp and heavy rocks. High ankle hiking boots are best recommended. Also pair with good support sandals.
Gear:
Picnic blanket: For the times you're tired of standing or walking, you can spray this over and sit or lie on it. If you're out for a picnic, you can easily settle on a blanket and relax.
Water bottle/desert jugs: You need to stay hydrated at all times so a usable water bottle is great to have. A jug too will help in refilling your bottle when its content is spent.
Flashlight: Depending on where you lodge for the night, this will help you during late night visits to the toilet.
Backpack: A solid backpack strapped comfortably to your back will make your luggage carrying easy. Your desert essentials can easily fit into it and when hiking, you have where to store your needed supplies.
Hygiene supplies:
Moisturiser and lip balm: Desert minerals are good for your skin, but they can dry it out in seconds. Some moisturiser and lip balm is highly recommended to avoid turning into a walking, talking sultana.
Hand sanitizer: Keep the gems and dust particles off your hands with a suitable hand sanitizer. You can also take baby wipes for times you can't get access to water
Small microfiber towel: During your desert adventure, this comes in handy in wiping off sweat.
Mosquito repellent: Ward off bitey insects with a good bug repellent and save yourself bites and skin irritation.
Extras:
Food: The type of foods you consume on a desert trip can increase your perceived need for water, so try and avoid salty snacks. High Energy Snacks (energy bars, dried fruit and nuts) are good to get your blood sugar levels rolling.
Electronics: Pack the necessary chargers, cords and take with you a charged power bank for your phone and devices.
ATM Card or Cash (you should always carry cash in the local currency): You can exchange USD or take cash out of the ATM for additional expenses or souvenirs in advance of your desert adventures. Most deserts are located in secluded areas with no access to ATMs.
This desert trip checklist will have you prepped and ready for any kind of desert adventure! I hope you find this list useful and have fun on your next desert trip.
