Posted: 7/13/18
This time next week, RC adventurists will be littering the mountainside of Cisco Grove California for Axialfest 2018. Many will have spent weeks, months and even the complete year since last year's Axialfest preparing their rigs for the event. But one important area that should not be neglected is your day pack. You know, all the gear you should carry in a backpack to help support your day out in nature with your rig. We’re sure you have a pretty good idea of what you need to carry, but we gathered up the suggestions on what to carry from the Axial team that has been attending Axialfest since, well, since the start. Here is a list of what we suggest to have on hand.
Backpack
To carry your equipment, you will of course need a backpack. There are certainly an unlimited number of offerings available. But we have a few suggestions. For starters, make sure the pack is large enough to carry all of your supplies. Second, check for compartments. Having lots of storage areas makes it easier to separate things, know where they are and access them easily when you need it. Support is another area to check. Bags with batteries, water and tools can get heavy, make sure there are comfortable straps and cross support clips to distribute the weight of the pack on your body with minimal stress. And finally H2O equipped packs are often a nice option to keep you hydrated as you go.
Protection
It can get a bit buggy on the trails so having some insect repellant is often a must. Next, sun tan lotion or spray, you’ll be in the sun, protect your skin. Lip balm is another item that many drivers will have on hand with them.
Tools
It goes without saying, you should carry a minimized version of your toolbox with you. Some allen wrenches, nut drivers, scissors and pliers will probably get you through most repairs. Hex driver or leatherman style multi-tools help you reduce the amount of what you carry as well. Tape, such as electrical tape, zip-ties and glue are also great for on the trial fixes.
Batteries
You’ll be out on the trails driving your RC rig for long periods of time and when the power runs out, you don’t want to be left carrying your rig back to camp. Have an extra pack or two safely stowed in your daypack. It’s also a great idea to carry some extra transmitter batteries as well.
Water & Food
Sometimes time just flies away and before you know it, you’ve been out on the rocks for hours. Always pack plenty of water and food to keep you going. Cisco Grove is at a pretty high altitude and with the heat of the sun, the combination can cause dehydration. Do not go out without water.
Parts
Let’s face it, things can happen, especially with all of the highly modified rigs that will scour the mountains. If you know the weak points on your build, it’s best to bring extra parts in case you need to make a fix. Have a box of assorted hardware on hand too. Even with lots of prep, sometimes screws or nuts can rattle free from your machine.
Media gear
You’re at perhaps the largest attended radio control event on the planet, make sure you document it! Have your cell phone charged, clear out the memory in your photo album and grab lots of pictures. Have a portable charger with you in case you need to recharge your phone. Action cameras and mini-tripods are also a must have. But unfortunately because of an incident at another unrelated event at Cisco Grove, drones are not allowed.
Lighting
Aventures run into the night at Axialfest so multiple sources of lighting are a must. A head-lamp is recommended as well as a flashlight. Have these items in your pack in case you’re on the trails for the long haul.
BRING WHAT YOU NEED
So we just went over the recommended items to have on you at all times at Axialfest, but only you know what is truly needed to keep you safe and prepared on the trails. You took the time to make sure your rig was in top running condition. Now make sure you are too.
