Don’t forget these 5 essentials when packing for a rainforest trip

Rainforests are among the world’s densest hiking and camping trails as they contain about half of the planet’s plant and animal species. In this article, we will walk you through the essentials that you need to prepare for the trip.

1. Clothing — Rainforests are, as the name suggests, humid by nature and are usually characterized by their overall damp environment. We suggest packing long pants for the trip. Pants made from breathable and lightweight material such as cotton would be an excellent choice for a rainforest trip. Likewise, an article posted on the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) website recommends wearing pants during the trip as doing so would protect the legs from mud and insect bites. Footwear is also an important component of your wardrobe. It is advisable to use comfortable footwear — such as walking shoes, old athletic shoes, and hiking boots — in order to prevent blisters. Adventurers set to go on a rainforest trip are also advised to bring other clothing articles including light cotton shirts, long sleeve shirts, sleep wear, and lightweight jacket. Other highly recommended rainforest trip essentials include wide-brimmed hats and bandanas, ponchos, and raincoats.
2. Health-related products — Rainforests are home to some of the world’s hardiest and nastiest insects and animals. It is important to bring various health-related products to make sure proper care is given when unwanted events occur. The WWF article stresses that people should bring mosquito repellent, especially in the form of biodegradable lotions as they provide direct coverage over the skin unlike sprays that get splattered just around everything except the body. Experts have also suggested bringing moisturizers, hand sanitizers, and medications for altitude sickness, colds, fever, and bites. Moreover, it is advisable to bring first aid kits, toiletries, ear plugs, and sunscreen as well as spare glasses and contact lenses, lip balm, sunburn relief, and moistened wipes or towels.
3. Hiking staples — These should come as a no-brainer. Lightweight backpacks are ideal for exploring rainforests. Likewise, it is advisable to bring along binoculars for observing birds and mammals. Lighting should also come as a necessity, so do not forget to include lamps and flashlights. Water also plays a central role in each trip, so carrying bottled water may come in handy.
4. Camera and other equipment — No adventure trip is complete without souvenir photos. Experts have recommended bringing a camera and its other components including charger, converter, and plug adapter.
5. Miscellaneous — These are items that also prove beneficial for hikers and trailers. For instance, bringing zip lock bags are an excellent way of organizing used clothes and keeping discarded items in one place. It is also advisable to bring mosquito nets. According to experts, most rainforest lodges have one, but its better to ask before going on a trip and having one ready in case the place does not have sufficient mosquito netting. Experts also recommend bringing a watch and a travel alarm clock if possible.

An article posted on the Mongabay website notes that rainforests are home to various  indigenous tribes. The entry also adds that rainforests feature varying landscapes including mountain ranges and lowland rivers. Most rainforests are also near interesting beaches and coral reefs, the article states.

Going on a rainforest trip is an excellent opportunity for cultural exchange, photography, and adventure as well as other activities including fishing, hiking, relaxation, birding and wildlife spotting. (Related: Jogging in a forest twice as good for you as jogging in a gym.)

Sources include:

News.Mongabay.com

WorldWildLife.org