I once spent four days hiking a volcano in Indonesia and became so fatigued on the way down that I collapsed and needed my friend's trekking poles to get me to the bottom. I know firsthand how important it is to have a hiking pack that fits everything you need-whether you're camping or hiking for the day without having your gear (literally) weigh you down.
I was shuffling through Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park in Utah, when my foot struck something hard in the sand. I saw something shiny and bent down to uncover a Grivory knife. "That's a great brand," my guide said, before continuing, "You should always hike with something like this, it can help you in the craziest scenarios." I was on a camping trip with EXP Journeys, a luxury travel company that offers privately guided itineraries.
Don't let a trip of a lifetime to Machu Picchu be ruined by forgetting the right gear. I learned this the hard way when I packed at the last minute and left my rain jacket behind. Luckily, a friend saved the day with a spare-but you don't want to rely on chance. Packing smart doesn't mean overpacking. Whether you're arriving by train, bus, or on foot, a few key essentials can make all the difference. Think comfortable hiking boots, insect repellent, and a lightweight daypack.