Your perfect checklist for adventurous hassle-free backpacking in Gujarat.

Backpacking is about a budget-friendly getaway, having all travel essentials and having a zeal for adventure. If you are a travel lover, There’s a list of things you should always be aware of. While there are also a few things you need to carry no matter how sudden the plan is. A whole segment in travel writing talks about having a backpack that’s no less than Dora the explorers. Gujarat is a state with vividly diverse terrains and landscapes. In addition to having extreme climatic conditions depending on what hour of the day you decide to travel. While extreme heat during the day could give you a sunstroke, extreme cold at night could leave you freezing. Some of the most magnificent sites in Gujarat also have some of the most challenging terrains. Cities like Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat, Baruch, could have a confusing back and forth of cold and hot temperatures. On the other hand, the white desert of Kutch and the city of Bhuj experience extreme cold and heat throughout. But where is your sense of adventure if you don’t take up this challenge? On that note, here’s a list of essentials and tips if you’re backpacking in Gujarat!

 Always carry plenty of extra clothes:

It is important to always pack a few extra pairs of clothes. Backpacking trips can be full of uncertainties. It can take you longer to reach your destination or you could always plan on extending your trip unknowingly.

Have cash in handy no matter all your digital or plastic money:

your chai break on the highway might not allow you to swipe your card. No matter where you travel the highways are not very connected and usually have lesser facilities. Keep cash in handy always.

Pro tip:- do not carry all your money in a single purse, wallet or compartment. Distribute your money evenly within your bags, and your cloth pockets. Your money is safe and you’ll always end up with some money left instead of spending it all.

Carry basic medicines and ready to eat packaged food:

travelling through various zones that have different climates or extreme conditions can get you sick and ruin your trip unexpectedly. Also, carry a few essentials like coffee powder, ready to eat meals, a few packets of Maggie, etc. By doing this you will have enough food and emergency supplies in case you run out of your budget. Also, if you just don’t find great food around.

Carry enough documents or identity proof:

If you are on a solo trip or a trip with your friends make sure you carry all your necessary documents. A driving license, Aadhar and pan card could help in confirming your identity. These documents can help you check in to your rooms, to have age proof anywhere required. You can also get rid of any trouble you might have crossing the state borders.

Know your routes well by carrying a Map:

Google maps tend to confuse you and lead you to wrong turns and taking bridges you weren’t supposed to take. Have an old school map with you to help you better. Also, make sure you know the halts along the way because travelling can be tiring and you don’t want to end up in a shady place. 

Carry a Power Bank or portable charger:

tourist destinations in the state of Gujarat are at a considerably good amount of distance. It could take you about 4-5 hours to get from one place to another and your phone could run out of battery. Carrying a power bank will ensure your phone doesn’t die.

Have a pair of durable, tough sneakers or boots:

if you are backpacking across Gujarat you should not make the mistake of wearing flats or even wearing any footwear with heels. Make sure you use highly durable, good gripping shoes or boots to scale the roads. 

Know the basics of the regional language of the state:

  have a regional language or word dictionary to have little knowledge of questions like how to reach this place? How long would it take? Can you help with the directions? Note that there are not many states that understand Hindi or English well. You can face this problem in any state that has a preference for their regional language or mother tongue. 

Also check this out to plan the perfect trek : A Brief Guide On Trekking Kits: How Much Should You Spend?

Warm clothes and sun protection:

ensure you don’t freeze because of the cold weather at night and you don’t faint because of the daytime heat, carry this equipment. You do not have to overload your backpack with warm woollen clothes. You could simply carry a thick woollen jacket or hoodie and that would be all you would need. On the other hand, sunscreens and caps or hats would prevent you from fainting. 

 Resort to mineral water:

change of water consumption can throw your health completely off guard. It is suggested you resort to mineral water as it would ensure you have good health throughout the trip.

Safety tools and accessories:

if you are backpacking solo you should have a tool kit, safety device or gadget. Have a GPS tracker that reports someone about your whereabouts. Self-defence tactics like pepper spray could also be very helpful. Also, be aware and alert about your surroundings and dress down as much as you can. This will ensure you do not capture a lot of attention as a solo traveller.

Gujarat has a lot to offer and backpacking across the state could enhance your experience. some of the must-visit places are Rann of Kutch, Rani ki vav, Gir Forest, the statue of unity, etc. With the above mention must have listed you can go backpacking to the nooks and corners of Gujarat.

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