World Wildlife Fund has a list of items they feel are essential for traveling in rainforest areas. See their list then see which items I agree with.
- Hand Fan – I don’t normally use one. Trying to juggle a camera and binoculars is enough!
- Mosquito Repellant – absolutely! Especially with Zika, Malaria and other nasties about!
- Long Pants – another yes! They add extra protection against mosquitoes.
- Long socks – sort of. I hate shoes and socks but will wear them if I absolutely have to, though I tend to stick to established trails when birding. I do have leech socks and have worn them in Sri Lanka.
- Poncho – yes, I bring one more for protecting my camera than myself!
- Bandana – sort of. I have lead bands to keep the sweat off and I recently bought a Buff (as seen in Survivor) for more variety in headgear.
- Pencil – not really. I probably should take more notes while birding but I really prefer to to my bird list back at the lodge, preferably with help from my guide.
- Trail Mix – OK, not trail mix exactly but I usually bring some kind of snack and definitely lots of water.
And I have to add
9. Scottevest – love all the pockets to carry stuff in!