UAE Trekkers: What to pack, what not to stress about
Venturing into the great outdoors offers an exhilarating escape from the daily grind, but the success of your hike depends heavily on the gear you carry. Equipping yourself with the right tools not only enhances your safety but also increases the enjoyment of your adventure. This guide will walk you through the essential gear every hiker should have, regardless of the trail's difficulty or length.
Critical Gear: Foundation for Hiking in UAE Mountains
Footwear, Backpack & Clothing — DOs and DON’Ts
🥾 Footwear for UAE Mountains
DO
• Choose shoes with strong grip for rocky UAE terrain - SNEAKERS, RUNNING SHOES, GYM SHOES ARE ENTIRELY INAPPROPRIATE AND INCREASE YOUR RISK OF ANKLE TWISTS, FOOT STRAINS AND MANY OTHER INJURIES.
• Prioritise comfort and proper fit over brand or style
• Use boots with ankle support for steep or uneven trails
• Consider trusted models like Salomon Quest 5 and Salewa
DON’T
• Don’t wear brand-new shoes on your first hike
• Don’t use flat gym shoes on mountain descents
• Don’t ignore small discomfort — blisters worsen quickly
• Don’t assume heavier boots are always better
👉 On UAE Trekkers hikes, we help beginners test footwear gradually on easier routes before committing to longer mountain hikes.
🎒 Backpack
DO
• Use a lightweight daypack (20–30 L) for most UAE hikes
• Adjust straps so weight sits on hips, not shoulders
• Pack only essentials to avoid fatigue
• Use compartments to organise water, snacks, and layers
DON’T
• Don’t carry oversized backpacks for short hikes
• Don’t overload your pack with unnecessary gear
• Don’t let items hang loosely — they affect balance
👉 We often carry shared safety equipment on UAE Trekkers hikes so you can hike lighter and more comfortably.
👕 MINIMAL CLOTHING - LIGHT CLOTHING - ALL YEAR
DO
• Wear breathable base layers to manage sweat
• Carry a light warm layer for windy summits or winter hikes
• Bring a waterproof layer for unexpected weather changes
• Choose quick-dry fabrics suitable for UAE heat
DON’T
• Don’t hike in heavy cotton — it traps moisture and heat
• Don’t assume the mountains will feel warm all day
• Don’t skip layers on early morning or winter hikes
👉 Many hikers are surprised by how cool UAE mountains can feel — we always guide participants on layering based on season and route..
Navigation and Communication
4. GPS Device and Backup Map:
DO: Go on a hike with UAE trekkers before you try doing anything on your own! Every country is different and UAE Trails are unlike anything you have in other countries. Trust us on this!
DON”T:
Trust a wikiloc or Alltrails Map for a trail you have not done.
Depend on having cell service for the duration of your hike
Depend on your battery lasting for the duration of the hike
Hydration and Nutrition
6. Hydration System Hydration bladders or water bottles are essential. There is no water anywhere on the trails. Nowhere. Filtration devices are useless if there is no water source to begin with.
7. Nutritious Snacks Pack high-energy, portable, and nutritious snacks like nuts, seeds, energy bars, and fruit. For longer excursions, bring meals that can be easily prepared with boiling water.
Safety and Health
8. Comprehensive First Aid Kit Your first aid kit should include basics such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, blister treatments, and any personal medications. Tailor your kit to the nature of your hike and your medical needs.
9. Sun Protection Sunscreen, SPF lip balm, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses are crucial, regardless of the season. Sun exposure at high altitudes can be particularly intense.
10. Insect Repellent Protect yourself from mosquitoes, ticks, and other insects to avoid discomfort and disease. A head net might also be necessary in certain areas.
Emergency and Miscellaneous Items
11. Multi-tool A good multi-tool includes items like a knife, scissors, and tweezers, which can be invaluable in a variety of situations, from gear repair to food preparation.
12. Emergency Shelter Always pack a lightweight emergency shelter, such as a space blanket or a bivy sack, which can be crucial if you are stranded or injured.
13. Headlamp and Batteries A reliable headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries ensures you can see and be seen in low-light conditions. This is essential for those predawn starts or when hikes take longer than expected.