Must-Have List for Hiking Abroad - Summer 2024

It is one thing to go hiking in Spain, and another to go on an adventure abroad to enjoy nature and very different routes. Travelling through a different country presents greater risks, so it is important to prepare well before doing so. If you're planning to trek around the world this summer exploring rural routes, consider this list of essentials that shouldn't be missing from your preparation. The equation is simple: the better you plan your trip, the more you will enjoy it.

1. Your passport

Unless you plan to move only within the Schengen area, you will need your passport to travel to your destination country and for any transactions you make there. Make sure your passport is in order and valid for more than six months, as some countries may refuse entry if this is not the case. Remember that you also need to have enough clear pages for the visa stamp or sticker.

2. A power adapter

We are used to C-type plugs, which are used in most of the European Union, but not everyone in the world uses the same type of plug. Moreover, some countries have multiple different plugs. You may want to get a multiple adaptor, so that you can easily convert your sockets to types A, B, G, I and D. This will save weight in your backpack and help you get out of more than one jam.

3. SIM cards

You should also consider buying SIM cards for your destination in advance. You'll hardly be able to get them in Spain, but it's a good idea to do a bit of research on your own and make a note of several places that sell these cards both at your destination airport and near your hotel. Also check the phone companies available in the country you are going to, and the actual cost of their prepaid plans.

4. A VPN

Even if you get a SIM card, you will need to have an application on your phone. VPN, which is which allows you to encrypt your connection and change your IP while surfing from abroad. This application is essential to protect your internet traffic when using Wi-Fi networks in hotels or cafés, especially if you plan to make online purchases or book online. In addition, your VPN will allow you to access your digital services with a Spanish IP.

5. Vaccines

Depending on the country you are going to, you will need to have a range of vaccinations to protect against endemic diseases. Among the most common vaccines These include yellow fever, typhoid fever and Hepatitis A. Some countries may refuse entry if you don't have the necessary vaccinations, especially Saudi Arabia, where a meningitis vaccine is a must.

6. Paper-based information

Nowadays we are used to having all the information we need at our fingertips on our mobile phones, but this is not enough, so we want to travel safely. When travelling to other countries, we may be exposed to the risk of having our phone stolen, or we may simply find ourselves in areas without coverage. Write down essential information on a piece of paper, such as the address of your hotel or the contact telephone number of the Spanish embassy.

7. Language learning

Similarly, having an application such as Google translator can help you communicate in many situations, but it is not a solution in all cases. There will be times when you are in rural areas without internet access, and in these cases you will need to be able to communicate verbally. You will hardly be able to learning languages like Arabic, Hindi or Khmer in a few days, but at least familiarise yourself with the basic terms.

8. International insurance

No matter how confident you are in your abilities as a hiker, you should not rule out the possibility of accidents. Not everything depends on your legs, and sometimes there are factors in the terrain that are beyond your control. Even if you can afford to pay for medical consultations out of pocket, it is important to take out international medical insurance that can cover any medical expenses related to your trip.

Hiking in foreign countries is one of the most enriching experiences you can have, so it's definitely a great idea for your summer! But remember that such a trip can present many difficulties without proper planning. That's why it's so important that you make your own lists of essentials to consider before you travel - we hope these tips have helped you, and that you enjoy your trip!