Deciding on what gear you will want to take on your hunting or fishing trip is somewhat contingent on where you are going. Most outfitters supply their clients with a list of necessary equipment to bring however there is some important stuff that almost never appears on those lists that can make your trip more comfortable, enjoyable and productive.

First let's talk about the "show stoppers". Those items, that if forgotten, can have a devastating affect on your trip. On the top of that list is medication. It is absolutely amazing to me the number of people who forget their pills. There are few places in the bush where you can get a prescription filled so make sure you have ample supply of whatever it is that you need. Speaking of need; how's your eyesight? If you require glasses to see and therefore to shoot, take along an extra pair. Accidents have a way of happening at the least opportune times. A pair of sunglasses is also a good idea. Remember to have all your trip documents and paperwork that can validate that your trip is paid for, along with the outfitter's name, address and phone number and the dates of your hunt. Keep this information with your passport, hunter safety card and birth certificate.

Adventure travel would not be nearly as expensive if it were not for the compelling need to go out and buy new gear. When purchasing clothes and equipment be mindful of space limitations. After product quality, weight and size should be guiding factors when buying for your trip. If you grew up hunting in Vermont, you no doubt have a wool-hunting coat in your closet. Wool is warm, relatively waterproof, certainly traditional but also heavy; too heavy. You have probably been buying gear for this trip for months, so if you haven't yet invested in quality lightweight outerwear than its time to bite the bullet and go spend some money. It is essential that you can layer your clothes and adapt to a variety of temperature and weather conditions. You can't hunt effectively if you are not warm and dry, so along with that new fleece, check out the high tech materials being used in today's rain gear. Although a little pricey, a good rain suit will keep you dry plus it provides a layer of wind protection when its not raining. Most models fold down into a little pouch that is easily stowed in your daypack.

If your hunting destination features significantly different terrain than the deer woods back home, then what you take for footwear will be an important consideration. For moose and caribou in particular, boots must be at least 15 inches high, lightweight and waterproof. Although many outfitters suggest pack boots to deal with the wet boggy terrain of the far north, these are not always the best choice for walking six or seven tough miles a day. Side zipped rubber boots with form fitted ankles are ok but heavy and if your foot slips up and down at all, you will not be comfortable. My personal choice is a 17-inch Gortex snake boot with leather bottoms. The lace up design insures a snug fit and they are ultra light. I treat the leather with several coats of Mink Oil or silicone to keep moisture from wicking through and the Gortex uppers are 100% waterproof. Cabelas has several models in the $100 range. For about the same money, the 16-inch Woody Max by Muck Boot is a fairly new product that holds promise. They have rubber bottoms with lugged soles but their key feature is a neoprene top that hugs your leg and ankle. They are available locally in Vermont at Lenny's Shoe & Apparel in Barre, Burlington and St. Johnsbury.

Modern technology is finding its way into the adventure travel market and some of these gadgets are worth taking a look at and possibly taking along. If hunting with one or more friends, walkie-talkies are really handy. You can buy a pair of Motorolas for under $90 and being able to communicate location of game or hunt strategies can improve your success opportunities. GPS units are also showing up on more hunts these days but you need to make sure they operate properly in the area you are hunting. This is especially true if you are going to the Artic. For any electronic gadgets including flashlights, be sure to have extra batteries.

Preparing for your trip is made easier with a good list. It sounds simple but just make sure to take what you need and leave everything else at home. As for me, the two items that go on every trip are an over the hat bug net and a good book. Have a great trip.