You will need long-sleeved, lightweight shirts when traveling in the desert. Avoid sleeveless tops as lightweight fabric will provide better sun protection than sunscreen. Similarly, choose loose-fitting, lightweight pants instead of shorts. Wear tennis shoes or hiking boots instead of sandals. Protect your head and skin from the scorching heat by wearing a hat with a wide brim and wear sunglasses. Temperatures drop rapidly in the desert when the sun goes down, so pack a sweater or sweatshirt to keep warm at night. Pack extra clothes for emergencies.
Water is the most important item necessary for desert survival. Keep at least one gallon of water per person per day for drinking to avoid dehydration. Extra water will be necessary for washing and cooking. Whenever possible, stay in the shade to reduce water loss through sweating. Choose foods that are low in salt to avoid additional thirst. Make sure the foods are easy to pack and carry, such as granola bars. If you bring foods that require cooking, bring along cooking pots, plates and utensils. Above all, though, remember that water is more important than food to survival in the desert.
A first-aid kit is essential for surviving in the desert. The kit should contain alcohol wipes, antibacterial ointment, band-aids and wraps and bandages of different sizes. Keep any medications or medical devices you need regularly, such as heart medication or inhalers, on hand. Over-the-counter pain relievers are another useful addition. Hydrocortisone cream and allergy creams and pills should also be included in the first-aid kit. Pack tweezers for removing cactus spines from skin.
You will need a medical blanket or another type of warm blanket to cover yourself during cold nights in the desert. Bring plenty of matches and a lighter for building fires as well as a flashlight for seeing in the darkness. Flares will allow you to signal for help at night. A compass and map may help you to navigate your way through the desert. Bring along a tarp or a similar item that can be hung up and used as shade from the sun.
