Gears are an absolute necessity but so is the importance of packing just right
The trick is to pack as light as possible for the event day yet carry all the necessary stuffs that you will require on the trail. Prepare in advance while training, so that you know exactly what you will require. Here are a few tips.
1) Nothing new: Whether its clothes, footwear or socks, do not try anything new on the event day. New clothes might chaff your skin and new footwear will give you blisters if not broken in.
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2) Weather: As the trail meanders through forest areas and Ghats, the weather can change drastically in the day. Day time can be hot and humid while the night temperature can drop dramatically. Prepare well for all types of weather.
3) Footwear: This can make or break your chances of completing the challenge. Understand the trail and the terrain well and get a hiking or running shoe accordingly. The Mumbai trail is through the Ghats and hence a good pair of TREKKING / HIKING shoes with adequate ankle support is an absolute MUST. Break into your shoes well in advance.
4) Clothing: Use light cotton or any breathable material which can dry quickly. Carry extra clothing with you and some with your support crew in case you may need to change often.
5) Daypack: Carry a small and comfortable daypack with space for a hydra pouch. Travel light. Keep only stuff which will last you from one Check Point to another like water, snacks / energy food, first aid etc. Rest you can give your support crew to carry.
6) Night Light: Though it’s a full moon weekend in Mumbai, you will cross forest areas, undergrowths and state highways. For your safety, please carry headlamps (to keep your hands free) or torches with a strong beam. Carry lots of extra batteries.
7) Walking poles: The Mumbai trail is mostly through the Ghats, over rocky patches with uphill and downhill climbs. For those with not much trekking experience, it’s suggested that you carry a walking pole. Also one set of walking pole in a team is advised as it can come to the rescue of a tired or injured team member.
8) Essentials: Carry first aid and any other medicines that you require.
This is a short checklist of things that we suggest you wear and carry for the day
>> Quick-dry shorts, shirt and underwear to move moisture away from your skin >> Tights/leggings or compression garments in short or ¾ length to reduce muscle fatigue and chafing
>> Sunglasses
>> TREKKING SHOES with ankle cover and support
>> Lightweight wind-proof and/or insulated jacket with hood which you can also use in case of rains
>> Breathable, comfortable, moisture-wicking socks
>> Cap / Hat to cover your head against the sun
>> 15-25 litres daypack
>> WATER containers totaling 2-3 litres capacity. A two or three litre water bladder with drinking tube is recommended as it allows for more frequent and hands-free drinking
>> Walking poles; either one or a pair. One pole for more balance or a pair for more body drive and reduced leg fatigue
>> Anti-chafing lotion and blister tapes
>> Personal identification and some money for emergencies and purchasing food along the trail
>> Event Map Book and protective pouch
>> Dry (waterproof) bag or plastic bags to keep clothes dry and/or to stash wet gear
>> Snacks (salty and sweet) and energy food
>> Head torch with ample light and good battery life
>> Insect repellant especially during the night
What to carry amongst the team
>> Mobile phone. Two per team, ideally on different networks, as per event rules
>> Spare torch batteries (and bulb if required) — at least 1 set per battery type
>> Small walker’s repair kit (spare shoelaces, safety pins, string)
>> First aid kit containing (as a minimum):
o compression bandage
o strapping tape
o sterile dressings
o antiseptic wipes
o selected blister treatments
o four thermal blankets (one per team member)
Additional first aid supplies must be kept with your support crew. Prescription medication and painkillers are your team’s responsibility.
What your support crew should carry for you
>> Spare clothing, including:
o socks
o shoes, in case a team member's main pair causes blisters or gets damaged
o cold or wet weather gear
o extra technical clothing if required
>> Very warm jacket and blanket/sleeping bag for relaxing at Check Points
>> Extra first aid gear
>> Spare torch, batteries and bulb; spare batteries and bulbs for walkers' torches
>> Small walker’s repair kit (spare shoelaces, safety pins, string)
>> Team food supplies:
o Crockery, cutlery and cups (bring your own reusable cup to the food and beverage tent to collect hot tea and coffee or some snacks, as we will not be supplying cups at checkpoints with support crew access. Maybe your support crew can have a cup ready in a thermos mug for you when you arrive at the checkpoint)
o Hot food (carbohydrate-rich)
o Snacks (sweet, salty, filling)
o Fruit (bananas and oranges provide excellent energy)
o Electrolyte sport and energy drinks
o Thermos for hot drinks
>> Mobile phones
>> Spare towels
>> Spare eyeglasses/contact lenses
>> Camera and spare batteries
>> Something comfy for the walkers to rest on - picnic chairs, picnic rugs, inflatable mats or waterproof travel rugs and blankets
>> Washing bowl, water and soap
>> Rubbish bags
What your support crew should carry for themselves
>> Warm clothes
>> Hat and sunglasses
>> Food and drinks
>> Support Crew Information and Map Book
>> Support Crew Vehicle Pass
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