Overview
Havasupai Falls in Arizona is undoubtedly one of the most coveted camping permits. Those permits can sell out for the season in minutes. I recently had the good fortune of hopping on a friend’s permit this past June when two party members bailed at the last minute. Let me tell you, the HYPE is real. The water is really as blue as it is in pictures and all the different waterfalls were truly awe-inspiring. It really does feel like you’re a modern-day Ponce De Leon and have found the Fountain of Youth. So, you’ve secured a permit and are making your travel plans. What should you pack for a three-day backpacking trip to this majestic spot?
Food/Electrolytes/Water
Our group counted out each meal we would eat to ensure we had enough calories to fuel our daily adventures and dinners each night. Our go-to meals were Mountain House and Peak dehydrated packets for breakfast and dinner. I chose The Mountain House veggie chorizo and eggs for my breakfast meals. I put the egg mix into a tortilla with some Pocket Siracha hot sauce, which was perfect. I made 2.5 burritos with one packet which was more than enough for me. My dinners consisted of Peak Refuel meals. Each of my Peak meals were packed with a hearty 870 calories to ensure you’re full at the end of an activity-filled day. I went with the pasta alfredo, beef pasta marinara, and homestyle chicken and rice. This was my first time trying out the Peak Refuel meals and I was pleasantly surprised. They were filling and flavorful. If you’re a light eater then you can split the meal with someone which is what two of friends did. I was also on the hunt for a good freeze-dried chili. I found the Packit Gourmet Texas State Fair Chili on Amazon and wow, it was pretty darn good. I highly recommend it for this trip or any other trip.
Take a lot of electrolytes with you. Especially during the summer. Our trip dates were mid-June and temps were hot to say the least. I packed electrolytes in excess. Dehydration and cramps can ruin a trip quickly so don’t skimp on bringing enough. My go-to electrolytes were Tailwind, Protekt, and Bubs Hydrate-or-Die packets (For 20% off, use my affiliate code: JASONRIV24 ). These single-serving packets are easy to dump in a water bottle or bladder and are full of sodium, potassium, and magnesium to keep your hydration levels up. I’m a big fan of Bubs Hydrate or Die lemon or orange flavor (not a fan of the coconut) but on a multi-day trip, I like a variety of brands and flavors to change up the taste.
Fuel on the go. Plan for the hike in and out along with any day hikes you plan to do. I am a huge fan of Spring Energy Gels . I used these almost exclusively when I completed The Leadville 100 mile Ultramarathon. Through months of training and racing for 29 hours straight, I never got tired of the taste. The Awesome Sauce flavor literally tastes like apple sauce. Spring Energy was founded by a sports nutrition scientist who is also an avid ultra runner, health fanatic, creator, and foodie entrepreneur. He wanted to create sports nutrition products made with natural ingredients to help bring back the joy and authentic feel of racing and training without GI problems, sugar spikes, or low-quality artificial ingredients. I carried six of these for the hike-in and day hikes.
I also carried GU Waffles and Skratch Energy Chews for flavor and variety. Other types of food that we carried for lunches and snacks during the day were: peanut butter cracker packets, tuna packets, Justin’s squeezable peanut butter packets, honey sticks, tortillas, and beef jerky. We discovered that a pack of tortillas goes a long way and could be combined with nearly every meal for additional carbohydrates. Some tortilla ideas: peanut butter + honey, tuna + tortilla, beef jerky rolled up in a tortilla. Our crew also packed two cans of Pringles and holy moly were those a tasty salt snack.
Backpack
I opted for the Hyperlite Southwest 40L pack for its light weight. At 1lb. 13.7 oz (size small) it is one of the lightest no-frills backpacks out there. However, other than being light weight, there is not much in the way of organization. There is one main large top-loading compartment with a water bladder sleeve and three external pockets. Additionally, there are two small pockets on the waist strap. The shoulder straps are minimalist as well. There is no extra padding, so you will feel loads over 40lbs in your shoulders. I felt it on the hike in with 48lbs of gear but did not feel it at all on the hike back. I estimate I was under 40lbs. on the hike out of Havasupai. The Osprey Atmos 50L is a more complete, highly-regarded backpack built with comfort and organization in mind. The women’s equivalent to the Osprey Atmos is the Osprey Aura 50L .
Footwear
I chose to wear trail running shoes over hiking boots and opted for the Dynafit Ultra 100. Dynafit is a trail running, mountaineering, hiking, skiing brand from the UK and makes excellent products. The Dynafit Trail 100’s had excellent cushion, stability, traction, and were great in and out of the water during our hike to the Confluence.
I found them very similar to my regular trail running go-to shoes, The Hoka Speedgoat 5 (Men’s). (Women’s version). I’ve worn the Hoka Speedgoat 5’s for most of The Leadville 100 Ultramarathon and figured if they were good enough to carry me 100 miles, they would be good for the 10 mile hike into Havasupai.
Hyperlite Southwest 40L Pack
Clothing
For the hike in the temps were in the high 60’s and I chose to wear the Black Diamond Alpenglow Pro Hoody I really loved this piece of kit. It is extremely versatile from keeping you warm in cool weather, protecting you from the sun, dries quickly, and wicks away sweat. I also wore the Vuori Kore and Banks shorts. They are super comfortable, have an underwear liner, and versatile when going from hiking to water activities.
Surfing Kits
Quality wetsuits and surfboards are critical for surfing. The O’Neill Hyperfreak Comp wetsuit is lauded for its flexibility and quick-drying properties, providing great comfort in cold waters, though it offers less thermal protection than thicker alternatives. For surfboards, the Firewire Dominator is highly popular for its performance across diverse wave conditions, but might be challenging for novice surfers due to its advanced design.
By offering comprehensive reviews of adventure travel gear across various activities, we aim to equip you with the knowledge needed to make informed gear choices that enhance your outdoor experiences.
Expert Suggestions and Tips for Adventure Travel
When embarking on an adventure travel journey, meticulous preparation is crucial to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. A detailed packing list is fundamental, tailored to accommodate the specific demands of various activities. For example, backcountry adventures may necessitate lightweight, durable gear, including a reliable tent, sleeping bag, multi-tool, and water purification tablets. Conversely, trail running and ultra running require minimalist yet effective equipment like hydration packs, energy gels, and well-fitted trail shoes.
Efficient organization and storage of gear can significantly enhance your travel experience. Consider utilizing waterproof packing cubes and compression bags to maximize space and maintain order. Properly labeling your gear can also expedite packing and ensure nothing is forgotten. Additionally, invest in a quality backpack or duffel bag that offers ample compartments and is suited to your adventure’s nature and duration.
To prolong the lifespan of your equipment, regular maintenance is essential. Clean your gear after every trip, check for wear and tear, and perform necessary repairs promptly. For instance, apply a waterproofing treatment to tents and jackets, and keep your multi-tools and knives rust-free by oiling them periodically. These practices will ensure your gear remains reliable over time.
Selected gear must align with the environment and weather conditions you will encounter. Cold weather excursions necessitate insulated clothing, while desert environments demand breathable attire and sun protection. For wet conditions, prioritize waterproof and quick-drying materials.
Niche activities such as overlanding, trail running, and backcountry expeditions come with specific challenges requiring specialized gear. Overlanders benefit from durable vehicle-mounted equipment, while trail runners and ultra runners need minimal weight and maximum efficiency. Backcountry adventurers should focus on packability and multipurpose tools.
Photography enthusiasts traveling through rugged terrains should prioritize the protection and transport of camera equipment. Consider hard-shell cases with customizable foam inserts or padded backpacks specifically designed for camera gear. Utilizing weatherproof covers will protect against the elements, ensuring your memories are captured without compromising your equipment.
Ultimately, whether you are a seasoned adventurer or a novice explorer, these expert suggestions and practical tips will equip you with the knowledge to plan and embark on successful and enjoyable trips. By selecting the right gear, organizing efficiently, and maintaining equipment properly, you’ll be prepared to tackle any adventure with confidence and ease.
