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How to Pack for Wildcrafting

Wildcrafting is the practice of harvesting plants, herbs, fungi, seeds, berries and other materials from the wild for cooking and medicinal purposes. Wildcrafters search in any areas that have wild plant growth, including woods, cities and backyards. Landscaped properties and undeveloped pieces of land may contain plants that produce valuable materials that aren't harvested. With permission from property owners, wildcrafters may harvest materials that would otherwise go to waste. When preparing for a wildcrafting trip, pack useful gardening tools, plant reference books and packing supplies to preserve the materials for future use.

Things You'll Need

Backpack
Insect repellent
First aid kit
Paper bags
Plastic bags
Rubber bands
Garbage ties
Markers
Plant field guide
Gardening tools
Gardening gloves

Instructions

- 1
  Carry a large backpack or a waterproof bag with compartments to carry your wildcrafting supplies. Try a tool belt or a fishing vest to organize smaller tools and supplies and find them quickly.
- 2
  Pack items that protect you from the elements. Bring long pants and long sleeve shirts to protect your skin from branches and thorns. Bring rain gear, sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent and a first aid kit. Also pack water and non-perishable snacks.
- 3
  Bring paper bags, plastic bags, rubber bands and garbage ties to bunch and store the materials you harvest. Take permanent markers to write the name and location of what you harvest on the bag.
- 4
  Keep plant field guides and other plant manuals in your bag. Also store maps, a GPS, a compass and a flashlight.
- 5
  Pack gardening tools, including a knife, scissors, a garden trowel, a small shovel, gardening gloves, a digging fork, pruners, a spade, loppers and even a small saw.

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