Ask who carries which bag
Before you buy a larger pack, find out how luggage is moved, when you can reach it and what weight or size limits apply. Make two piles on the floor. The first holds everything you need between breakfast and camp. The second holds what you can leave behind until the evening. Add your operator’s compulsory items before choosing any extras.
During the walk
Confirm the water capacity required for the longest stretch between reliable refills. Pack the containers and check they do not leak. Keep sunglasses, sunscreen, a sun hat and a covering layer where you can reach them. Use familiar footwear and socks. Stow spare socks away from loose sand and carry the small personal items you normally need on a long day outdoors.
After the sun goes down
Ask about expected overnight temperatures and the sleeping equipment supplied for your dates. Confirm whether you need a sleeping bag, liner or mat. A headtorch, spare power and an accessible warm layer are easy to appreciate when you reach camp after dusk. Try packing everything back into its bag at home.
Test what goes next to your skin
Take your day pack on a local walk. Fill your bottles, wear the intended socks and try the hat with your sunglasses. Fix rubbing straps and shoes before departure. Ask the operator about water arrangements and shade breaks. See TravelHealthPro’s guidance on extreme heat.
What Brotherhood expeditions look like
Explore our past trips for photographs from the Sahara. For a future departure, use the guide’s current kit list and questions to ask before an expedition.
From The Brotherhood Community, County Wexford. All field guides.