Choosing effective kit for your adventure is the most important aspect of journey preparation. Get it right and you'll set out with a strong peace of mind, knowing that the stuff in your bag will get you to the finish line successfully.
But scrimp and save, go for cheap options and take shortcuts at your peril. At best you'll end up having to replace broken gear, carry more weight than you need and end up spending more money. At worst, you'll get yourself injured or....let's not even go there.
So, start by asking these questions:
- How are you travelling?
- Is weight or compact packing essential?
- What conditions are you heading into?
- How remote will you be: ie. is resupply (for food or other gear) possible?
Then...
- Make a list of the gear you need to make your journey possible.
- List in order of priority
- Be firm with yourself; do you NEED each item, or will it be a LUXURY?
We’re often spoilt for choice in every area of kit selection these days, so do your research far and wide. Read reviews/ get advice to determine what best suits your venture and budgets - the best advice you can get is from people who have used the same gear in the same location that you're travelling too.
Finally, whether or not you need to pursue sponsorship for certain items of gear depends entirely on your financial and time* budget. There are some great deals on eBay if your budget is tight and plenty of websites where outdoor gear can be hired, too.
* Time is key. Will you spend more time earning money your own way, or honouring the demands set in return for sponsorship?
Interested in learning more about similar subjects? I hold regular workshops on my floating HQ in London, including adventure planning, social media and filming masterclasses.
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