Joanna James
Adventures in the wide-open desert undoubtedly make for exciting experiences galore, but they will only be as exciting as long as you have the right essentials for surviving the unforgiving golden sands. Pack up on these unforgettable must-haves for a worry-free, rewarding desert adventure.
One thing that is well known for being utterly scarce in these sprawling sands is precious dihydrogen monoxide, aka water. One simply cannot carry enough water for a desert trip and is highly advised to have at least one gallon of water per person per day — the more the better but you also don’t want to add to excessive luggage weight. It pays to pay attention to the water containers of your choice, as, while they are larger the better, it is also crucial to consider their durability and make sure they last in the testing desert environment. While not essential, an easy-access hydration pack would certainly come in handy.
The barren landscape of deserts means there’s no vegetation or fruits, nor is it an environment for any sort of eateries. So, once bottles of water have taken their place in your backpacks, next in precedence would be food items, specifically, non-perishable food items that can last the entirety of your desert trip. The likes of nuts, dried fruit, energy bars, and jerky make excellent high-energy snacks for all kinds of desert adventures. If you are planning a rather long trip out in the desert, a portable stove might be a good idea and consider taking some electrolytes also with you to replenish salts.
Whether you are camping in the world-renowned Sahara desert, the stunning sands of New Mexico, the outback in Australia or in the Wahiba Sands, where it is one of the best things to do in Oman, you can never be too careful. Therefore, always consider carrying a first aid kit and some emergency supplies with you. You never know when it would come in handy in the sprawling sands.
The scorching sun that is very characteristic of desert landscapes needs no introduction and appropriate clothing and sun protection are undoubtedly crucial. Lightweight, breathable clothing rule deserts and a couple of long sleeve shirts and pants should be fine depending on the length of your trip in the sands. Also, appropriate headwear, perhaps a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen, are must-haves for a worry-free desert trip.
Unless you book your desert adventure through a professional tour provider or stay at a luxury tented camp such as Desert Nights Camp, your shelter and sleeping arrangements would most probably involve makeshift accommodations. Tents are the most stable and comfortable of the options and are designed for withstanding desert conditions and allow good ventilation — something you certainly can’t take for granted in the sprawling sands. Sleeping bags are an easy, low-key option and when equipped with sleeping pads make for a good night’s sleep in the desert.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
