Kit list for tropical fieldwork

AUTHOR: John L. Godlee

I've had some time to digest my most recent fieldwork experience and I've updated my generic tropical fieldwork kit list accordingly. This list is meant to be one where items should be excluded based on the circumstances, so if I'm working in a grassy savanna for instance, it's probably unnecessary to take a mosquito headnet. Similarly, if I am working in an area with no trees, a hammock doesn't make a lot of sense. Obviously the list is specific to me, but I guess it could be used as a loose guide and inspiration for others carrying out their first ecological fieldwork in the tropics.

I haven't included basic clothing on the list because it seemed like it was too obvious.

The first aid kit is one that can be taken into the field everyday and contains the bare essentials. It doesn't include antibiotics or more serious first aid supplies like SAM Splints, needles, sutures. These should be added if one knows how to use them competently, and depending on the remoteness of the fieldwork.

wash cloth for walking boots

camp shoes / flip-flops

pink pillow slip bag

large fixed blade knife

string/paracord of various lengths

water purification tablets

non-adhesive dressings

antiseptic cream/liquid

Plastic disposal bag

mechanical pencils (wide diameter lead)

hammock mosquito net

Money and bureauracracy

multiple debit cards

vaccination certificates

plastic folder for receipts etc.

cliplock waterproof box

camera spare battery

universal socket adaptor

Kit list for tropical fieldwork

Outdoor clothing

Survival equipment

Healthcare

First aid kit

Stationary

Sleeping equipment

Washing

Money and bureauracracy

Electronics