What to bring for The Hammock Trail: Southern Albania

This guide goes more in-depth on our recommended packing list for our 9-day hammock hiking adventure in Southern Albania, featuring hills, mountains, forests, and a short coastal section.

Expect long hiking days, lots of open terrain, warm days, cooler nights, and a rafting day where you will get wet.

These are recommendations, not strict rules. Use this list to make sure you bring what you need, without carrying unnecessary weight.

Essential Gear

Backpack

You'll be hiking for 7 days, averaging 11 km per day with 1300 m elevation gain, so comfort and fit are key.

We recommend a 60–80 liter backpack that can comfortably carry:

• Hammock equipment (Hammock, Tarp, Under-quilt)

• Food & Cooking equipment is provided

• Extra water on longer days

Make sure your backpack is well-fitted before the trip.

Sleeping Bag (Top Quilt)

Although Southern Albania is generally warmer, October nights in the mountains can still feel cold, so make sure you pack warm camp clothes.

If you bring your own sleeping bag or quilt, we recommend:

• Comfort rating around 5°C (41°F)

Sleeping socks are strongly recommended for comfortable hammock nights.

Hydration

Water is available via streams, villages, and natural sources, but there are days where you'll need to carry water to camp.

You should be able to carry 4 liters of water.

Bottles or a hydration bladder both work, use what you're used to.

Food

All food for the entire trip is fully included as stated in the itinerary. No need to bring your own meals, but feel free to bring your favourite snacks.

There may be occasional opportunities to buy a drink or snack in villages, but this should be seen as a bonus rather than something to rely on.

Clothing

Southern Albania in October offers warm days, strong sun exposure, and cooler evenings, especially at higher elevations.

Layering remains essential.

General Clothing

Focus on breathable, quick-drying, and re-wearable clothing rather than bringing lots of spares. Placing these in a small dry-bag inside your bag can save you time searching & ensuring your clothes stay dry.

• 2x T-shirts / Long sleeves – One can dry while you wear the other
• Hiking pants – Durable and comfortable for long days
• Hiking shorts – Great for warm weather
• Insulating layer (e.g., vest, fleece) – For added warmth
• ±4 Pairs of underwear
• ±3 Pairs of socks – Wool or synthetic for moisture-wicking

Elemental Clothing

Mountain weather can change quickly.

• Rain jacket – To keep out the wind and waterproof
• Rain pants – Great addition to the jacket
• Hat / cap – Sun protection

Rafting will get you wet—quick-drying clothing is ideal.

Swimwear

Swimming is a part of this trip!

• Swimwear – can also be nice to jump into any waterfalls
  • A more lightweight option: hiking shorts work perfectly for most people
• Lightweight towel (microfibre)

Footwear

Your feet will work hard on this trip.

• Trail runners or hiking boots (well broken in)

Due to steep ascents and descents, good grip and stability are essential.

Sleepwear & Evening Wear

Evenings at camp can feel surprisingly cold.

• Sleeping pants
• Warm sleeping socks
• Warm hoodie or fleece

• Camp shoes (Crocs / sandals) – Your feet will thank you
• Headlamp – Essential for camp and nighttime use

Some people prefer to sleep in their extra / spare base layer instead of bringing dedicated sleepwear. This allows you to save weight and space in your backpack. But it's totally up to you! Personally we prefer to bring our dedicated sleepwear.

Swimwear

Kayaking is a part of this trip!

• Swimwear – can also be nice to jump into any waterfalls
  • A more lightweight option: hiking shorts work perfectly for most people
• Lightweight towel (microfibre)

First Aid & Personal Care

When you're out in nature for multiple days, having a basic first aid kit and personal hygiene essentials is a must. We won't be near any pharmacies or convenience stores, so it's better to be prepared for minor cuts, headaches, or that one mosquito that seems to love you.

First Aid Kit

Guides carry a full first aid kit, but you should bring some personal basics.

• Bandages & Blister Plasters – Because blisters and small cuts can happen
• Ibuprofen / Painkillers – For headaches, sore muscles, or minor injuries
• Anti-mosquito Cream / Spray – The best way to avoid becoming a walking buffet

• Sunscreen – Even on cloudy days

Toiletries

We keep things simple and eco-friendly on the trail. Go for biodegradable products whenever possible and bring only what you need:

• 1 Roll of Toilet Paper – Enough for the trip, but not a whole jumbo pack
• Toothbrush & Toothpaste Tablets – Toothpaste tablets are a great alternative to traditional tubes, no mess, just bring the right amount
• Natural Soap (Bar) – Great for washing up without harming the environment

By keeping your first aid kit compact and your personal care items minimal, you'll have everything you need without carrying unnecessary weight. Plus, staying fresh(ish) after a long day in the wild is one of life's underrated joys!

Electronics & Power

While we're here for the adventure rather than our screens, staying connected and powered up is essential for photos, weather updates, and campfire music. Since we'll be off-grid for up to four days, just like our previous trips, bringing along a little tech ensures we stay prepared throughout the journey.

Some areas are more remote than others and reception is limited or non-exsistent. Guides will be equipped with a satellite communication device to be able to stay connected in case of emergencies.

Phone & Charging Gear

Your phone can be a lifesaver on the trail, whether it's for navigation or emergency contact. But a dead phone? Not so handy. Here's what you need:

• Phone + Charging Cable – Don't forget the cable to keep things powered
• Power Bank – A reliable power bank with enough juice to last for 4-5 days will keep your devices charged and ready. We can recharge at the guesthouses.

Optional Gear / Equipment

Not every piece of gear is necessary, but some are nice to have and can improve the experience. The following items are more a personal preference. Remember that the more you bring, the more you'll have to carry.

• Trekking Poles – For a more stable and comfortable hike
• Camera – For funny moments, mountains, and epic scenery
• Headlamp – A hands-free light is essential for nighttime navigation or camp chores
• Travel Pillow (Inflatable) – Added comfort for sleeping (Ruben is a big fan of this one)

A Note on Packing Light

Southern Albania is slightly easier than the northern route—but it's still a multi-day mountain hike. Overpacking will make your days harder, especially on sunny, exposed sections.

Prioritise:

• Sun protection
• Warm camp layers
• Proper footwear

Conclusion

Southern Albania combines mountains, forests, open landscapes, and water-based adventures into one unique hammock experience. With the right gear, you'll be able to fully enjoy both the hiking days and relaxed camp nights.

If you're unsure about an item, feel free to reach out to us Let's hangout between the peaks ✌