Hiking and Camping in the Tropics
The general idea behind hiking is the same, worldwide. However, depending on your location, there may be specialized hiking equipment and gear available that can help make your trip more enjoyable. For example, what you would take with you for a hike up a mountain in Alaska is probably not the exact same thing that you would take for a hike in the Ecuadorian rainforest.
Even when hiking in the tropics, having appropriate footwear—namely boots—is important. The fact that it is warm out does not give anyone leave to go hiking in sandals. For one, they do not have enough cushioning or ankle support, and for another, they are no protection from the poisonous insects that may inhabit the area. However, it is important to have both boots and socks that allow one’s feet to ‘breath’ since the temperatures are generally high and having wet feet is neither healthy nor pleasant.
Clothing should also be breathable on the skin, but going out in the tropics in the shortest shorts and a thin cotton shirt might make for an uncomfortable day. Cotton holds moisture, and as mentioned there are poisonous insects as well as plants that would be brushing up against skin all day.
Synthetics are available that are much more appropriate, and by selecting something with full legs and even a light jacket some of the dangers can be minimized. Adding a hat is also a good idea; with someone who is not from the tropics the sun’s intensity may affect him more than expected.
The amount of camping equipment carried in the tropics may not be as burdensome as elsewhere. Thick sleeping bags are unnecessary, although if sleeping on the ground a pallet and blanket are still necessary. However, many people prefer to simply bring a hammock, which has the advantage of being both comfortable and out of range of insects.
Rain in the tropics tends to be intense, so a camping tent or at least a waterproof tarp and a rope should be included on camping trips, and depending on the location, mosquito netting might be a lifesaver when darkness falls. Rain is another argument for ensuring that a waterproof jacket is included on all trips.
Cheap camp gear can be obtained at most outdoor stores, and clerks may be able to direct shoppers to appropriate selections. While anything that cannot be obtained locally will probably be available in towns near the same tropics where the hike is to occur, the prices may be higher and the quality not as easy to determine so it is well worth it to pick up at least the basics before leaving home.
