BE PREPARED

ever-useful multitool. You get what you pay for and although you might be able to pick one up for $10, you may find it falls apart before you’ve summited your mountain. Pliers and wirecutters can get you out of all kinds of scrapes, so go for one with integrated pliers.

3. A hammock

These integrated units are now hammocks, mosquito nets and rain tarps all in one. Weighing less than a kilogram, they are one of the most versatile, light ways to camp. Comfier than the flattest patch of ground and not a pole in sight. My favourite brand is Hennessy Hammock. No matter which one you go for, ask for the Hex Fly as a replacement for the standard flysheet — it’s enormous and can house six people in a tropical storm.

4. An inflatable mattress

Contradictory to number three? Absolutely not. There are always occasions where you simply want something comfortable to lie on. My favourite brand is SeaToSummit as its mattresses are the lightest in the world and simple to inflate, and deflate in seconds. A luxury you can afford to pack now, as they pack down to the size of a can of soda.

5. A down sleeping bag

Whether it’s wet or dry, I always opt for down in a sleeping bag.

7. A pair of merino boxers / knickers

Merino wool is natural and retains its thermal properties when wet (unlike cotton) and the best thing is, they never smell.

8. A Garmin InReach Explorer+

The gold-standard of exploration kit. Amazing messaging capabilities, emergency rescue button, and it’s the best GPS on the market, with downloadable colour maps. No modern-day adventurer should be without one of these.