Come prepared. Ride confident.

Everything you need to know before you arrive — vehicle prep, gear, camping, safety, documents, and mountain travel tips.

ZOA event checklist

This list covers the essentials for participants, campers, and support crew. Adjust based on your category and duration of stay.

Vehicle Preparation

4x4 vehicle in good mechanical condition (SUVs, MUVs, off-road builds)
Functional spare tyre, jack, and tool kit
Tow strap / recovery rope (minimum 4-ton rating)
Working headlights, tail lights, and indicators
First-aid kit and fire extinguisher
Vehicle documents: registration, insurance, driving licence
Underbody protection (skid plates recommended)
Working horn and rear-view mirrors

Camping & Stay

Tent, sleeping bag, and camping mat (if camping)
Warm clothing — temperatures drop to 8–12°C at night
Portable camping chair and small table
Torch / headlamp with extra batteries
Power bank (10,000 mAh+) for device charging
Reusable water bottle (2L+ recommended)
Trash bags — leave no trace
Earplugs and sleep mask

Clothing & Gear

Sturdy closed-toe shoes / boots
Rain jacket or poncho (mountain weather is unpredictable)
Quick-dry t-shirts and trek pants
Warm fleece or down jacket for evenings
Cap or sun hat and sunglasses
Gloves for driving and camp work
Bandana or dust mask for dusty trails

Health & Safety

Personal medications (enough for 5+ days)
Basic first-aid kit (bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers)
Insect repellent (mosquitoes in valley)
Sunscreen (SPF 40+)
Antihistamines and ORS packets
Emergency contact card (keep in wallet)
Travel insurance (recommended for adventure activities)

Food & Hydration

Dry snacks: nuts, energy bars, biscuits, instant noodles
Electrolyte powder / ORS for hydration
Reusable cutlery, cup, and plate set
Portable stove (if self-catering)
Biodegradable soap and sponge
Cooler bag for perishables

Tech & Navigation

Fully charged phone with offline maps (Google Maps offline area: Ziro Valley)
GPS device or GPS-enabled phone app (onX, Gaia, or similar)
Power bank + charging cables
Walkie-talkie if travelling in convoy (optional)
Action camera (GoPro or equivalent) with mounts
Drone if you have one (register at check-in)

Documents & Essentials

Valid government photo ID (Aadhaar, DL, Passport, Voter ID)
Downloaded QR ticket / confirmation email (save offline)
Cash (limited ATM access in Ziro Valley)
Printed map or directions to venue
Emergency contact list (organiser numbers)
Notebook and pen for notes

Pro tip: Pack everything in waterproof bags or dry sacks. Ziro Valley weather can change quickly — expect sun, mist, and light rain in the same afternoon.