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What I Packed for Thru-Hiking the Laugavegur Trail in July

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I’m heading to Iceland today to hike the Laugavegur Trail! While I’m on the trail, I won’t be blogging—I want to be fully present, take it all in, and journal along the way. After the hike, I’ll share the full story with you. Tomorrow, I’ll post my plan and a few first glimpses from Iceland. After that, the best way to follow along is on Instagram: @blackmanhiking2.

This post is part checklist, part reflection. Whether you’re planning a trek in Iceland or anywhere else, my hope is that it helps you feel more prepared and a little less overwhelmed. At the end, you’ll find a simple planner you can copy into your notebook or Google Doc to make packing easier.

First: July Weather in the Highlands

Before you pack, it’s important to understand the environment—that’s what drives your gear choices.

While Iceland’s coast hovers around 55°F (13°C) during July days, the Highlands are a different world: colder, windier, and less predictable. You can expect daily temperatures between 41–59°F (5–15°C), with rare sunny spikes into the 70s (20–25°C) or sudden drops near freezing during storms.

In short, think layers. You’ll need gear that’s ready for sunshine, sideways rain, and freezing winds—all possibly in the same afternoon.

Backpack, Tent, and Pack Liner

  • Backpack: I carried a 3FUL 50-liter ultralight pack. It’s affordable, surprisingly durable, and held everything I needed. 
  • Tent: The Durston X-Dome 2—freestanding, super sturdy, and perfect for Iceland’s gravel tent pads and high winds. 
  • Pack Liner: A giant contractor trash bag kept everything dry from the inside out. Nothing fancy, just effective. 

Sleep System

  • Quilt: EMS 20°F down quilt. It packs small and handled cold nights well. 
  • Sleeping Pad: A Therm-a-Rest I picked up secondhand from an REI garage sale. It might be my best $30 investment to date. 
  • Pillow: DIY pillow made from an old t-shirt and salvaged comforter fill. Designed to attach to my sleeping pad, with room to stuff in extra clothes for added loft—perfect for this side sleeper.

Footwear

  • Trail Shoes: Hoka Stinson 7—cushy, reliable, and grippy on volcanic gravel. 
  • Gaiters: Dirty Girl brand—lightweight and good at keeping Iceland’s fine sand out. 
  • Camp Shoes: My homemade “Scrap Slippers,” crafted from Dollar Tree slides and a recycled tent rainfly. Lightweight, dry quickly, and they’re weirdly adorable. 

A few photos of my DIY projects for this adventure. 

Clothing Layers

  • Base Layers: Under Armour thermal top and bottoms. 
  • Mid-Layers: Columbia long-sleeve hoodie, an Old Navy tee, and a Columbia SPF button-up for sun and wind protection. 
  • Bottoms: Thrift-store shorts paired with football-style leg sleeves for wind protection and warmth. 
  • Insulation: A North Face fleece and a puffy jacket from American Eagle (also thrifted). 
  • Rain Gear: REI-brand Gore-Tex jacket and pants. These were non-negotiables. 
  • Accessories: 
    • Trail hat and buff 
    • DIY winter hat for camp and a pair of thrift store mitte
    • Lightweight Smartwool gloves for the chilly times on trail

Meals and Cooking

  • Stove: JetBoil—easy to use and efficient. 
  • Water: 1.5L REI water bottle. Icelandic water is usually safe to drink without filtering, especially in the Highlands. 
  • Meals (I dehydrate all of my own meals except 1 for the last night): 
    • Breakfast: Cinnamon vanilla quinoa oatmeal with dried fruit 
    • Lunch/Dinner: A rotation of single and double portions of sweet potato chili, pasta and veggies, and a Mexican quinoa bowl (add olive oil for calories) 
    • Last Night Meal: Good To-Go mushroom risotto 
    • Snacks: Tropical trail mix, fruit leather, and a few surprise dum-dums  in my hip belt pocket 

Hygiene and Health

  • Toothbrush kit: Sawed-off brush, travel-size paste 
  • Wipes? Soap? Nope. Moisturize my hair with the Blue Magic(if you know, you know). Moisturize my body with a lotion mix in a travel-sized bottle. l 
  • First Aid: Neosporin, Band-Aids, ibuprofen, electrolytes, insulin, daily meds 

Navigation and Tools

  • GPS: Gaia app with offline maps 
  • Trekking Poles: Trekology Trekz SE—sturdy, collapsable and affordable 
  • Knife: Small pocket knife 
  • Duct Tape: Wrapped on trekking poles for easy access 
  • Other: Headlamp, journal prompts, rope, lighter, carabiner 

Photography and Tech Gear

  • Camera: Nikon D3500 with a 10–20mm wide-angle lens + rain cover + 3 batteries
  • Camera Supports: TODI selfie stick tripod and Backpack quick release mount
  • Power: Two battery banks, camera batteries, USB-C charger 
  • Other: Bluetooth camera remote, headphones, journal, pen

This is the final spread of all my gear. No, I don’t know how much it weighs—and honestly, I don’t want to. I just want to hike. Keep reading for a simple planner to help you map out your next adventure.

Final Thoughts

The Laugavegur Trail in Iceland’s Highlands will test you, inspire you, and remind you just how powerful and alive you can feel when you step outside your comfort zone. The weather may be unpredictable, and the path may challenge you, but every step is worth it—for the memories, the views, and the stories you’ll carry forever.

If I’m lucky enough to get service out there, I’ll be sharing real-time photos and moments on Instagram. Follow along at @blackmanhiking2 to experience a bit of this wild adventure with me as it happens.



PACKING LIST PLANNER

Backpack & Shelter

  • Backpack: __________________________ 
  • Pack liner/trash bag: __________________ 
  • Tent: _______________________________ 
  • Tent stakes/poles: ____________________ 

Sleep System

  • Sleeping bag/quilt (20°F or warmer): _____________________ 
  • Sleeping pad: ________________________ 
  • Pillow/stuff sack: _____________________ 

Clothing – Base & Mid Layers

  • Base layer top: _______________________ 
  • Base layer bottom: ____________________ 
  • Hiking shirt: __________________________ 
  • Long sleeve/SPF hoodie: _______________ 
  • Shorts/pants: _________________________ 
  • Leg sleeves/tights: ____________________ 
  • Fleece: _______________________________ 
  • Puffy jacket: __________________________ 

Outer Layers & Accessories

  • Rain jacket: __________________________ 
  • Rain pants: ___________________________ 
  • Hat/cap: _____________________________ 
  • Buff/neck gaiter: ______________________ 
  • Beanie: ______________________________ 
  • Gloves: ______________________________ 
  • Mittens (for camp): ____________________ 

Footwear

  • Trail shoes: ___________________________ 
  • Gaiters: ______________________________ 
  • Camp shoes/slippers: __________________ 
  • Wool socks (2–3 pairs): ________________ 

Cook System & Food

  • Stove (JetBoil or other): ________________ 
  • Lighter: _______________________________ 
  • Mug/bowl: ____________________________ 
  • Spoon/spork: _________________________ 
  • Meals: ________________________________ 
  • Snacks: _______________________________ 
  • Olive oil/calories: ______________________ 
  • Electrolytes: ___________________________ 
  • Water bottle/bladder (1.5–2L): ___________ 

Hygiene & First Aid

  • Toothbrush/toothpaste: ________________ 
  • Lotion/moisturizer: _____________________ 
  • Small towel: ___________________________ 
  • Lip balm: ______________________________ 
  • Daily meds: ____________________________ 
  • First aid items: _________________________ 
  • Optional: ______________________________ 

Navigation & Tools

  • Phone w/ GPS app: ____________________ 
  • Downloaded maps: _____________________ 
  • Trekking poles: ________________________ 
  • Knife/multitool: ________________________ 
  • Headlamp: ____________________________ 
  • Extra batteries/power bank: _____________ 
  • Rope/cord/carabiner: ___________________ 
  • Duct tape (pole wrap): ___________________ 

 Extras (Optional)

  • Camera: ______________________________ 
  • Rain cover: ____________________________ 
  • SD cards: _____________________________ 
  • Journal/pen: ___________________________ 
  • Headphones: ___________________________ 
Affiliate Disclosure

This website contains affiliate links, which means The Trek may receive a percentage of any product or service you purchase using the links in the articles or advertisements. The buyer pays the same price as they would otherwise, and your purchase helps to support The Trek’s ongoing goal to serve you quality backpacking advice and information. Thanks for your support!

To learn more, please visit the About This Site page.





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Destinations & Things To Do

Through my eyes: Dani Wilson Naqvi shares her favourite travel destinations

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July 19, 2025

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From staycation spots to bucket list family trips…

Each month, we ask a local UAE legend about their favourite places to eat, shop and explore around the emirates. But for this travel special, we’re going global. So we’ve tapped Dani Wilson Naqvi (@daniwilsonnaqvi), luxury travel designer and founder of Unique Family Travels (@uniquefamilytravel) for her favourite spots worldwide. As a travel specialist who’s ticked 55 countries off her bucket list, she’s well equipped to share the best places on the planet for all vacation styles.

Top staycation spot

I love the Ritz-Carlton Al Wadi Desert for family trips as we enjoy the desert activities and get to explore RAK with unique experiences such as the Bear Grylls Explorers Camp  and zipling across Jebel Hafeet. A definite favourite of my family is Atlantis The Royal, as the family can enjoy Aquaventure from morning to night, there’s an endless choice of mouth-watering restaurants, and lots of water activities.

@ritzcarltonalwadidesert, @atlantistheroyal

Bucket list family trip

A safari in Africa is a must for all families. The most incredible safari experience I have had was in Botswana in the Okavango Delta where we canoed in the Okavango and witnessed many truly wonderful sights. For first-timers, I would recommend Kenya. I work with many luxury lodges that are more private and located in private conservancies, so you get to escape the crowds and have a more up-close experience.

A must-try meal

One of my best memories was at the 3 Michelin Star Mirazur in Menton on the border of France and Italy. We were staying in Monaco and drove to the restaurant, which took 30 minutes. All the ingredients served are grown on the side of the mountain around the restaurant, perfectly encapsulating the farm-to-table experience.

@restaurantmirazur

Favourite hotel

Bisate Lodge (pictured above) in Rwanda is one of the most incredible hotels – so much so that it actually made me cry. The story behind it is very empowering as it was built by the local villagers, it’s located in Volcanoes National Park, close to where you can trek with the gorillas. Aside from that, I love Nihi Sumba on Sumba Island in Indonesia, Soneva Jani or Soneva Fushi in the Maldives for the Robinson Crusoe experience, Gleneagles for a country retreat in Scotland, and Belmond Splendido in Portofino for a romantic couples’ break.

@bisatelodge, @nihi, @soneva, @thegleneagleshotel, @belmondsplendidomare

A destination everyone should visit

cape town whatson.ae, South Africa. There is something magical about this city. From the amazing hikes to the spectacular vineyard Estates, driving the Garden Route to Hermanus to whale watch, and visiting the penguins at Boulders Beach – the vibe in Cape Town is unmatched.

Under-the-radar destination

Raja Ampat in Indonesia, known as The Last Paradise on Earth. We went as a family sailing around the islands for 10 days. From diving and snorkelling with manta rays, to hiking the untouched islands, it was raw and beautiful. The team set up beach days and dinner on private sandbanks, we kayaked around islands and relaxed on the most incredible boat, which had 15 staff to assist with every need. Easily one of my bucket list moments.

Images: Unsplash, Supplied

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Destinations & Things To Do

Ronda, Spain: A Hidden Gem Untouched by Mass Tourism

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2 hours ago

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July 19, 2025

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Home » EUROPE » Ronda, Spain: A Hidden Gem Untouched by Mass Tourism

Saturday, July 19, 2025

Hidden in the jagged mountains of Andalusia, Ronda is a tranquil antidote to the tourist honeypots of Spain. Known to many as the “City of Dreams”, this scenic town is situated precariously on top of a ravine, making it one of the most beautiful towns in the nation. Only 100km from Málaga, Ronda is the new darling of those looking to fit in some history, culture and authenticity without diving into the suffocation of humanity.

The beauty of Ronda lies in the strong presence of ancient history and cultural traditions. Ronda’s beauty isn’t just about views and scenery, but about its preservation of old world Spain, untouched and untouched by mass tourism. Unlike many of Andalusia’s coast-lying towns, here you will find no massive high-rises, just the sound of heels click-clacking on cobblestone streets and bright white houses stacked on a hill overlooking a lazy plaza – the sound of the real Spain.

Whether it’s the tranquil atmosphere or the literary ties to famous writers like Ernest Hemingway and Orson Welles, Ronda continues to captivate visitors looking for a unique experience. After spending a weekend in this idyllic town, I’ve found myself enchanted by Ronda’s beauty and its welcoming charm. Here’s how you can make the most of your visit to this hidden Andalusian gem.

Capture the Iconic Puente Nuevo

Ronda’s most famous landmark is undoubtedly the Puente Nuevo, a stunning 18th-century bridge that spans the deep gorge dividing the old and new parts of the town. Despite its name, the bridge is far from new, having stood the test of time for centuries. Its dramatic location over the Guaddalevín River offers visitors some of the most iconic views in Spain, with photographers flocking here to capture its magnificence.

A visit to Ronda wouldn’t be complete without snapping a few photos of the Puente Nuevo. The best spots are up on the cliffside or by descending the 200 steps to the river below for a closer view. Once you’ve captured the perfect shot, you can relax with a refreshing jug of sangria at one of the nearby bars, taking in the view of the bridge and the surrounding landscape.

Explore Ronda’s Tapas Bars and Local Cuisine

For food lovers, Ronda offers a unique culinary experience that blends the flavors of its diverse cultural history. The town’s cuisine has been shaped by centuries of invasions and occupations, from the Celts to the Romans. Dishes such as oxtail stew, fried aubergine with honey, and gazpacho reflect this rich history, and they can be best enjoyed at one of Ronda’s many traditional tapas bars.

One of the most enjoyable activities in Ronda is hopping between its small tapas bars, where you can sample local delicacies in a casual and friendly atmosphere. The Balcon del Tajo, a viewpoint located near the Puente Nuevo, is home to several charming eateries where you can enjoy tapas under the arches. Make sure to try a bocadillo, a local sandwich filled with Iberian ham, or enjoy a chilled glass of local wine at Pura Cepa, a refined wine bar with a terrace that’s perfect for watching the sunset.

Wander Through Ronda’s Old Town

One of the best ways to explore Ronda is on foot. The town’s compact size makes it perfect for wandering through its narrow, winding streets. Starting from the top of the town, work your way down through the La Ciudad (Old Town), where you’ll encounter beautiful plazas, quaint shops, and historic landmarks.

A stroll through Ronda’s Old Town feels like stepping back in time. You’ll pass through sleepy squares, admire the whitewashed buildings, and perhaps catch the sound of flamenco music drifting through the streets. As you explore, take a moment to stop for a souvenir, or simply sit in one of the town’s many peaceful spots and take in the surroundings.

Visit Ronda’s Historical Bullring

While controversial, bullfighting is an integral part of Spain’s cultural history, and Ronda holds a significant place in this tradition. Considered one of the cradles of modern bullfighting, Ronda’s bullring is one of the oldest and most iconic in Spain. Although bullfights rarely take place here nowadays, it remains an important symbol of the town’s heritage.

The bullring is home to a small museum where you can learn about the history of bullfighting, from its origins to its role in Spanish society. The complex also includes stables and stockyards, and it offers a fascinating glimpse into the tradition of bullfighting. Tickets are reasonably priced at €9 (£8), making it an affordable cultural experience for visitors interested in Spain’s rich history.

A Great Base for Exploring Andalusia

Ronda’s central location makes it a perfect base for exploring the wider Andalusia region. The town is well-connected to major cities like Malaga, Granada, and Seville, with frequent train services and local buses. For just £13, you can easily catch a bus from Ronda to Seville, making it an excellent day trip destination for travelers staying on the Costa del Sol.

The Best Time to Visit Ronda

The best time to go to Ronda is during spring and fall, between April and June or September and October. The weather at these months is warm and ideal for hiking, so you can visit the town, not experiencing the heat of summer. Fewer tourists clog the streets in these months as well, so you’ll have a quieter experience.

Ronda: Spain’s Hidden Gem

Ronda is one of those rare treasures of Spain, a place where authentic culture and traditions have survived through the centuries and take centre stage in an off the beaten track destination. Boasting some breath-taking scenery, an intriguing history, and a laid-back vibe, Ronda is where visitors can get a flavor of the “Old Spain” without the crowds and the commodification of its coastal neighbours. Ronda For an authentic Andalusian vibe If you are seeking total immersion in all things Andalusian, Ronda won’t let you down.

Source:

  1. Government of Spain (official tourism websites)
  2. Andalusia Tourism Board (official regional tourism source)
  3. Ronda City Official Website (municipal tourism source)



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Happiness Only Counts When it is Shared (Christopher McCandless)

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July 19, 2025

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Day 88-19 Miles today from Mark Noepel Shelter to Seth Warner Shelter, 4,800 Feet Up, 4,800 Feet down, 1609 AT Mile Marker (MM)

Too Much Time on my Hands

I stared at the logistics last night. I did it again this morning. With designated camping spots the logistics of the daily hike including the miles and the elevation make it difficult to plan ahead.

I really wanted to make it three more miles yesterday but I didn’t want to pay $175 for a bed at the lodge on Greylock. So I had plenty of time yesterday at the shelter by myself but didn’t want to use my phone battery because I need to stay out in the woods several more days. At 7:30 I decided I would just lay on the mattress. It didn’t take me long to get to sleep. It is a bit odd being by yourself for the first time in a while. And I’ve spent many nights in the woods by myself.

I woke up a few times last night sometimes hearing noises. I kept thinking some kind of critter was going to try to get into my pack and find some wrapper I forgot to remove and put in the bear box.

Logistics Just Don’t Work

The sun started to slowly diminish the night sky sometime before 5:00. At 4:55 I woke up and knew it was time to start my day. I once again stared at the logistics.

I think I was hoping I had missed something. But it just doesn’t make sense for me in the next day. I have a 3 mile climb remaining up to the top of Mount Greylock. Then a steep 6 mile descent into town. The town has a few hotels but I really don’t see a need for a hotel tonight.

This morning I put on a clean hiking tight and clean hiking shirt. In addition I still have plenty of food left over for several more days of hiking. My options however are limited.

I could push my longest ever day to get to a shelter. My other option besides a hotel in town is to go only 12 miles today to a campsite. That seems the most logical destination. My mind tells me that is a better option than pushing hard today. But is it?

Lonely

It is still sad to know that Knockerz is no longer hiking with me. That is compounded by the fact that I have jumped ahead of the Nobos I was hiking with and had become friends with. I probably won’t see them again. I suspect many of the people I had been hiking with are at least three weeks behind me now.

I see very few people on the trail now and last night I was the only person in the very large nice shelter. I don’t want to say I’m lonely but I have to believe that I am feeling alone.

No Fun Being Wet

This morning started out as a cool morning probably in the mid-60s. Low lying clouds dampened everything. My socks actually feel wetter than when I laid them out to dry last night.

My bedding, sleep clothes, and sleeping pad felt moist. Not wet just moist. I just feel wet all over not soaking wet sweat just annoying dampness. Being wet this long starts to wear on you.

The final climb up Mount Greylock went quickly. Unfortunately the clouds had set in below the summit. Above the summit it was clear but the clouds shrouded the views. The forest is a spruce Forest that has a lovely Christmas tree scent to it.

Background Noise

I’m also acting as Spider-Man this morning because I’m the only one out here. I am capturing all the webs recently laid across the trail. It’s kind of like the circling gnats on my head, just something that is background noise continuously tickle my face.

The only thing I really watch out for is an ambitious spider that actually put a web across the trail and it’s hanging out waiting for a treat. You can tell when you run into those fully formed webs because they give you a little bit of resistance. And it’s more of a net across your face as opposed to a single tickling strand.

Happiness Only Counts When it is Shared

Yesterday I finished the book Into the Wild about Christopher McCandless and his fateful expedition into the backwoods of Alaska. I should have been listening to something more uplifting but I watched the movie at Angels Rest hostel many moons ago and I thought it would be good to listen to the book on trail.

In the end McCandless, who tried to escape society by heading out into the wilderness realized that we are wired as humans for connection.

His final quote in his journal was “Happiness only counts when it’s shared” suggests that while individual joy is important, its true meaning and impact are often amplified when shared with others (AI quote). I feel that quote now as I hike alone.

Quick View Below

Although Mount Greylock was above the clouds and the views were mostly shrouded, there was a short break in the cloud ceiling. I was able to catch a quick glimpse of the valley below. I was shocked at how far down it was.

It has been since the Roan Highlands I have seen such a dramatic elevation change between the summit I was on and the valley below.

“Mount Greylock is a the highest point in Southern New England. Greylock rises above the surrounding Berkshire landscape for views as far as 90 miles”, but not today. The trail then then descended off Mount Greylock.

Another Mountain to Climb

The next climb up to Mount Prospect ledge from the trail junction was only two tenths of a mile but it was at an elevation of 1,000 ft per mile. That slowed me down tremendously. Then there was a 2 mile long, 750 feet per mile descent into the town of Williamston which also slowed me down.

One of the first things I always notice about approaching the developed world is the sound of lawnmowers. As I’m descending down this deep drop I am now starting to hear lawn mowers off in the distance.

Trail Magic

It was 11:30 when I rolled through the little town of Williamsburg. I had not seen a single soul on the trail since yesterday.

Then at the old Greylock school was trail magic! Lisa walked by and explained about the different people in town who donate to these five coolers.

I was able to grab some food for lunch, cold drinks, and a few supplies. It was so well appreciated. I was just thinking about how I haven’t really had a lot of trail magic lately.

1,600 Miles

After Williamston the trail went over an old AT crossing from 1958 over the river and then even higher up to cross railroad tracks. A short road walk later and the trail then basically went up somebody’s driveway.

The trail continued to climb the next two miles over a thousand feet in elevation. I passed the 1600 mile from Springer mark. That means less than 600 miles to the big K.

Fell In A Creek

The trail meandered next to a really nice creek with lots of little waterfalls. The water also made it to where the woods were really heavy with gnats now buzzing my head.

I stopped at the creek to rinse off and I slipped on a rock and fell in. I was in waist deep water.

Soaking wet from the waist down, I continued to climb when I saw Pete’s spring. I have been walking on a lot of walk boards lately through swampy areas so seeing a good cold mountain spring was too much to pass up.

It was then that I ran into Weedingit is traveling with Mrshorty. Knockerz and I had seen them several days ago near Upper goose pond.

After continued climbing the trail then climbed up a very steep rock scramble called the Rock Garden. I hiked on until I got to the shelter. It was my longest miles and most elevation I’ve done in one day . I was exhausted.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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To learn more, please visit the About This Site page.





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